How does a Belgian scientist find themselves in Eugene, Oregon, dedicating their life to research? For Margot Bastin, Ph.D., an Associate Scientist and Postdoctoral Researcher at Oregon Research Institute (ORI), the path involved hard work, caring mentors, and an appreciation for the beauty of the Pacific Northwest. 

When Dr. Bastin began studying psychology at KU Leuven in Belgium, she originally envisioned a career in clinical therapy.  A pivotal turn came when her academic supervisor encouraged and helped ignite an interest in pursuing research. Competing in a science communication competition further clarified Dr. Bastin’s goals. “[The Flemish PhD Cup] asked important questions like, ‘What now? What can I do to actually change something in the community?’ That’s what attracted me to come to ORI because the project here was all about helping people who are in need … and incorporating a more practical side of research.” 

Dr. Bastin’s current research focuses on depression and the dynamics of adolescent friendships. She has been awarded a two-year research grant from the National Institute of Mental Health to study how adolescent best friends can influence each other’s emotions. Research suggests that adolescents’ levels of depressive symptoms can impact their friends’ emotions over time. Conversely, positive moods like happiness or excitement may also be passed along among friends. “That’s my passion because friends are so influential in adolescence.” 

Dr. Bastin is committed to improving the mental health of young people and seeks to offer valuable insights into how close friendships can serve as both a risk and a protective factor in the emotional well-being of adolescents. In addition to exploring friend dyads, Dr. Bastin also works with ORI’s Mom-Net project, which aims to enhance the capacity and autonomy of Head Start agencies to address maternal depression. 

Networking and mentorship play pivotal roles in shaping the careers of young scientists, says Dr. Bastin, and it’s one of her favorite things about working at ORI for the past two and a half years. “Talking and working with others gives me the creative insights I need. … Research stays and new perspectives opened my whole world view. I have learned the most from how [my mentors] talked about the science and how they look at the same topics in slightly different ways. Working together and combining knowledge brings more nuance than working by yourself.” 

For others considering a career in research, Dr. Bastin is highly encouraging. “It can be hard but once you push through and, if you are surrounded by good people, it’s really worth it. It’s incredibly fulfilling to grow, learn, and notice that what you are doing matters. [I work with] a very motivated, energetic group of people who all want to move the field forward and conduct high-quality work.” 

In addition to the supportive community of colleagues, Oregon Research Institute offers an additional benefit Bastin appreciates: its location. “I love Eugene. I go hiking, I’ve learned to paddle board. I love the outdoors and Eugene has so much to offer.”