Karin Habermehl-Cwirzen is an Associate Professor at the Faculty of Science and Technology at the University of the Faroe Islands
Karin Habermehl-Cwirzen is originally from Germany and has worked as a researcher in Finland and Sweden for several years before moving to the Faroe Islands. She holds a PhD in Physics from Aalto University in Finland and has also a teacher education degree from Finland.
Karin Habermehl-Cwirzen´s research area is Materials Science, Physics and Civil Engineering with a special focus on concrete and building materials. In her research she focuses on the performance and durability of construction materials, with a particular emphasis on developing more sustainable and long-lasting concrete structures.
She is currently establishing a building materials laboratory at the University of the Faroe Islands, dedicated both to research and education in building materials.
Why did you decide to move to the Faroe Islands?
I came across the advertisement by chance but immediately thought it was unique and interesting. I liked the idea of being able to be part of a growing academic and research environment and contribute with building materials research. I came to the interview and fell in love with Tórshavn and the whole Faroe Islands.
What are the advantages and disadvantages in working as a researcher in the Faroe Islands?
It is both exciting and challenging. A big advantage is that there is lots of room for initiative and innovation. It feels that you can really have an impact. Once you get to know people, cooperation with academia and industry is very easy. A challenge is that many things need to be imported, meaning you need to wait a long time for parts and lab equipment.
What are the career perspectives like in the Faroe Islands?
I have lived in several countries, and I think research careers are more competitive abroad which can sometimes make collaboration difficult to impossible. This was one of the things which drew me to the Faroe Islands. Here is a greater flexibility and for someone like me who values collaboration it is a rewarding environment.
Is it difficult to be integrated in the Faroese society as a foreigner?
It takes time and effort, but I have been living most of my life in the Nordic countries, so I am used to the slightly more reserved way. Faroese people are very friendly and helpful, but their strong family ties can make it more difficult for foreigners to build bonds. As someone without Faroese family connection, I need to make an effort to try to make friends and get involved. The connections you make then are quite strong and helpful.
Has the language been a problem?
Faroese is a bigger challenge than I thought. I speak English, German, Finnish and Swedish so I thought Faroese would be a piece of cake to learn. I was wrong, but I still try to learn it. Most Faroese people speak English or ”Scandinavian” therefore I always manage.
Did you bring your family with you to the Faroe Islands?
My husband stayed in Sweden and our daughter is studying abroad. But I did bring my dog! From what I can see, the Faroe Islands are very family-friendly, and I think it would be very easy for families with kids to integrate here, especially with the safe environment in the Faroe Islands.