Moises Moreira Vieira

Moises is a Politics PhD student from Brazil whose personal interests include immigration, healthcare, pop music, Buddhism and movies.

On my research and choosing my PhD

Moises Moreira Vieira

PhD Politics

Learning about International Politics has been a personal and academic interest for many years. As I am also interested in pursuing an academic career, I decided to do a PhD in Politics.

My research interests lie at the intersection of health, security and immigration. I look to investigate how health status is integrated into immigration policies so that migrants' bodies are conceptualised and experience as a source of (in)security.

Manchester is an internationally renowned university. In addition, I have a special interest in the work of Professor Maja Zehfuss, who happens to be my main supervisor now.

I have plans to pursue an academic career and my PhD will provide me with the opportunity to take the most important steps to prepare for it: publish in academic journals, present my work at conferences, acquire teaching experience. In addition, it will give me the chance to do important networking and learn from world-class scholars.

On my PhD highlights

My highlight so far is presenting my research project to an audience for the first time, in one of our seminars. I had the chance to practice my academic speaking skills and receive useful feedback.

On the greatest challenge

The most challenging part of my PhD so far has been learning about quantitative methods, since I had no previous training in the area before. It showed me that we can always try (and succeed in) learning something new.

On training and development opportunities

I have attended a workshop at Oxford Brookes University, and will be attending a conference in April, where I will present my research to a panel.

I have also taken modules both in quantitative and qualitative methods, as well as a module on PhD research design skills. I strongly believe future employers will be glad to find this training on my CV, since it provides me with abilities that go beyond the academic area covered in my project.

On living and studying in Manchester

I am a student from Brazil, and it is the first time I am living away from home. It is challenging to be in such a position, but it does give you an incredible opportunity to grow both as a person and as a student.

So far, it’s been an incredible experience. The University of Manchester has been a very welcoming environment both at an academic and personal level.

Manchester is a very cosmopolitan city, which makes you feel comfortable despite the fact that you are new to the city. The university provides many welcoming activities, which gives you the feeling that there will always be someone around to help, if needed.

On tips for future students

Living abroad is a very challenging situation, especially when you are about to start the journey by yourself. However, keep in mind that you are not going to be alone once the journey begins. If it is your dream to achieve an internationally renowned certification, jump on board. As time goes by, you will realise that there is so much more to it than first meets the eye!

I live in student accommodation and, before coming to Manchester, I was a bit concerned about living with six other people from different countries. It turns out that the experience has been far different from what I expected. My flatmates and I have been able to live in harmony, and have been able to develop important cooperation skills.