Matheus Bonifácio Pamplona
Current Employer/Organisation Name
Courageous Land.
What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?
After leaving Exeter, I resumed my research career at the IpES Laboratory at the Federal University of Santa Catarina (https://ipes.ufsc.br/), focusing on the relationship between vegetation and climate. A few months later, I joined Courageous Land, a Brazillian startup dedicated to mitigating climate change through agroforestry systems and the use of advanced technology. I began as a Data Analyst and have since transitioned into the role of Carbon Specialist, while continuing to support data science tasks as needed. In addition to my work at Courageous Land, I also freelance for companies and researchers, analyzing climate datasets and exploring links between extreme weather events and other relevant indices.
Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?
I chose my career out of a strong desire to contribute to a better world. By combining my skills in coding and climate science, I develop analyses and tools aimed at supporting the fight against climate change, with a particular focus on mitigating its impacts in developing countries like Brazil.
What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?
I really enjoyed my time in the UK for many reasons. Living in a completely different climate was a unique experience, and I had the opportunity to interact with people from a wide range of cultures. During my stay in university accommodation, I lived with students from Pakistan, China, the UK, and Afghanistan—the cultural exchange and daily interactions were truly enriching. The University of Exeter also impressed me with its outstanding infrastructure; I had never seen anything quite like it before.
What did you most enjoy about studying here?
Definitely learn from a group of very competent professors of climate sciences and be able to work closely with Met Office located in Exeter.
Why did you choose to study at Exeter?
Exeter is one of the best universities in the world and because of the partnership with Met Office.
What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?
General knowledge of climate behaviour and its changes along the time and understand the solutions for this problem and how effective these solutions can be. Beyond the climate, the coding techniques I learned helped me solving real world problems in my career.
What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?
First of all, practice your English—it might seem simple, but it’s essential for developing your academic and professional skills. Don’t be afraid of math and coding; these two abilities can open many doors, even beyond your specific field of research. And most importantly, enjoy what you’re doing. Your undergraduate and master’s years are unique moments in your life, so make the most of them by engaging in as many activities and experiences as possible!
What are your plans for the future?
Keep solving real life problems, especially the most critical one – the climate change!
