Simone Chambers – Enjoys working with people I handle administrative tasks in the coordination of the na- noscience study program. This involves many different areas, such as managing expenses and fees, and organizing evalua- tions for block courses and lectures. I also help organize some events, such as SmallTalk or the master’s graduation cere- mony. After completing an internal training course, I’ll also be able to keep our website up to date in the future. What is your professional background? After completing my apprenticeship as an industrial clerk (at Roche) and spending seven months as an au pair in London, I worked in the tourism industry in Crete and Turkey. Follow- ing my training as a foreign language hostess (NSH/Berlitz) in Basel, I organized VIP flights for Crossair/Swiss Int Airlines for 15 years. Since 2010, I have been working in the Philosophy Department at the University of Basel, and since December 2019, I have also been working in the SNI’s study coordination office. What motivates you in your job? I especially enjoy the variety in our study coordination work. Many tasks only come up once or twice a year, so it never gets boring. I’m also happy when events go smoothly and everyone is satisfied. Plus, I really enjoy working with people. What are you currently working on? Right now, we’re busy preparing everything for the Small Talk event on May 13. We need snacks, catering, certificates, name tags, gifts, and much more. At the same time, we’re also start- ing to organize the block courses again, and each of us has our own specific tasks. Fun Facts Coffee or tea? Coffee, but I also enjoy tea in the winter Dog or cat? Cat, but I love dogs too Early bird or night owl? Early bird Favorite place? Home and by the sea Favorite food? Thai food and fresh asparagus Dream vacation destination: Iceland Secret talent? I can’t remember any movies at all, but I know—unnecessarily well—which actors and actresses starred in which films. “Simone shows empathy, treats others with understanding and kindness and creates a pleasant and motivating atmosphere with a warm smile.” Anja Car on Simone Chambers’ superpower 34 SNI INSight June 2026