Meet: Iván Flores Martínez, CHESS postdoc researcher

Iván Flores Martínez is a postdoctoral researcher in Political Science and Public Administration. Originally from Mexico, he earned his bachelor’s degree in Political Science and International Relations from Centro de Investigación y Docencia Económicas, a M.S. in Data Science and Business Analytics and a Ph.D. in Public Policy from UNC Charlotte. His dream job is to be an assistant professor at a public university.

Can you share some unique aspects of Charlotte’s research environment that you appreciate?
One of the things I value most about UNC Charlotte’s research environment is the incredible support system and feedback culture. There’s a real sense of collaboration here, with faculty and fellow researchers always ready to offer insights and constructive criticism. This constant exchange of ideas has been invaluable in refining my work and pushing my research in new, exciting directions.

How has the university supported your professional and personal growth?
UNC Charlotte has been instrumental in fostering both my professional and personal development. They’ve provided me with a dedicated office space, which has become my haven for deep thinking, writing and collaboration. This space has allowed me to immerse myself fully in my research while also offering a quiet retreat for personal reflection and growth.

What do you think sets this university apart from others in your field?
One of the standout features of UNC Charlotte’s research environment is its highly multidisciplinary nature. This approach fosters a rich, collaborative atmosphere where ideas from various fields intersect, leading to innovative research outcomes. Additionally, the incredible support system and feedback culture here have been invaluable. There’s a real sense of community, with colleagues always ready to offer insights and constructive criticism.

What’s the most interesting or unusual hobby you have?
I have a creative side that I love to explore outside of my academic work. I do pencil sketches, which allows me to engage with the world visually and express ideas in a different medium. It’s a great way to unwind and sometimes even helps me visualize complex concepts in my research. Additionally, I’m quite musical – I play both the keyboards and the guitar. This musical hobby not only serves as a great stress-reliever but also keeps my mind sharp and creative. The discipline required in mastering these instruments often translates into my academic work, reminding me of the importance of practice and persistence in achieving goals.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is that character skills are more important than IQ or raw intelligence. This perspective has profoundly shaped my approach to both my research and personal development. It’s not just about being smart; it’s about perseverance, adaptability and how you interact with others. This advice has helped me navigate the challenges of postdoctoral research and collaboration more effectively.

What’s your favorite place in Charlotte?
The U.S. National Whitewater Center. It’s such a unique place that perfectly encapsulates Charlotte’s blend of urban amenities and outdoor adventure.