© Amaaze
Coming back felt like coming home
Years after completing her PhD at Montanuniversität Leoben, Izabella Bastos faced another life-changing decision. When the opportunity to move abroad came again, she already knew where she wanted to build the next chapter of her life. This time, she returned to Austria – not only to continue her scientific career, but also to give her two children a place they could call home.
The essentials – Izabella's insights & experiences
Izabella first came to Austria to pursue her PhD at Montanuniversität Leoben. Outstanding research facilities, cutting-edge technology and close collaboration with leading researchers provided the ideal environment to grow both academically and professionally.
When the opportunity to move abroad came again, Austria was the obvious choice. The professional network she had built, the friendships she had maintained and the sense of belonging she had experienced years earlier made returning feel like a natural decision.
Moving abroad alone is one challenge. Returning with two children means making decisions that go far beyond your own career. For Izabella, safety, stability, excellent education and a welcoming community were just as important as finding the right professional opportunity.
Today, Izabella contributes to innovative energy projects focusing on industrial decarbonization. Working with international partners allows her to combine cutting-edge research in Austria with solutions that can make an impact far beyond the country's borders.
Why Austria – where opportunities become lasting connections
Austria wasn't unfamiliar when Izabella returned. She already knew the people, the university and the community that had shaped her first years in the country. Returning meant reconnecting with a network she had built over many years while giving her children the opportunity to grow up in a safe and welcoming environment.
What stood out most to Izabella after returning to Austria:
- A welcoming community that quickly feels like home
- Outstanding research infrastructure and international collaboration
- A safe and family-friendly environment
- Excellent work-life balance
A work culture that makes room for family
What Izabella particularly values about working in Austria is the clear separation between professional and personal time. Even while contributing to demanding international research projects, she has enough space for her family and everyday life. The stability and flexibility she experiences allow her to pursue her scientific ambitions while giving her children the security they need to settle in and thrive.
Support that made all the difference
Moving abroad alone is one thing. Relocating with two children brings a completely different set of questions. Before returning to Austria, Izabella turned to WORK in AUSTRIA for guidance on visas, schools, relocation and settling in with her family. Having access to reliable information before the move made the transition significantly easier and gave her confidence that every important aspect had been considered before arriving in Austria.
WORK in AUSTRIA supports international talents by:
- Providing guidance before and during relocation
- Offering information on visas, schools and family relocation
- Helping newcomers navigate administrative processes
- Supporting international professionals throughout their move to Austria
Izabella's advice to future talents
- Build your network – the connections you make may stay with you for life.
- Don't be afraid to move with your family. Austria offers excellent support.
- Take advantage of Austria's outstanding research environment.
- Stay curious and embrace new experiences.
- Contact WORK in AUSTRIA early – having reliable guidance makes the entire relocation process much easier.
I felt at home from my very first week.
