Country of Origin: Mexico

ESR5. ACCESSIBLE URBAN SURFACES

What inspired you to become a researcher in your field of expertise?

I truly believe that we need to pause and re-think how our cities are designed. The current focus on automobiles certainly needs to be shifted toward healthier, more sustainable and, more human modes of transport.

My personal experiences of switching from automobile dependence to cycling, walking and public transport have been inspirational. This contributed greatly to develop deeper interest and curiosity in finding the best solutions to help people to understand and appreciate the impacts of a more active life. Additionally, Urban Mobility is a highly multidisciplinary sector, spanning across various knowledge domains that I find stimulating.

How will your work help improve people’s quality of life?

Waking is a human’s intrinsic mode of transport and we are specifically designed to walk each day of our lives. Amongst the goals pursued by this research, we can highlight the development of novel walkway surfaces that minimize the effect walking over hard surfaces exerts on our bodies. The effects of this technology will provide not only health benefits in the long term, but also is expected to reduce the impact severity in case of a fall. We will also be working with greener and more sustainable materials.

What are you most looking forward to as part of your Marie Curie Action in research and training?

I am very looking forward to deepening my knowledge in the different areas of expertise of the project; particularly the amazing opportunity to develop new areas of understanding, such as Bio-mechanics and neuroscience. This project will be a thrilling experience that will allow us to work closely with high-calibre experts and game-changing personalities, providing not only guidance but inspiration.