This paper aims to investigate the influence of life trajectories and professional journey of migrant STEM workers in brain drain and brain circulation outcomes. For this purpose, we analyze the case of Brazilian migrant STEM workers who have migrated to the United States, using a qualitative research approach. Brain drain has been a critical problem to the human capital development of emerging countries, whereas brain circulation offers a potential pathway to mitigate these human capital losses. This paper contributes on revealing how personal STEM workers’ career choices in brain drain and brain circulation perspectives shape international knowledge flows, shedding light on the mechanisms by which these flows may occur. Results shows that personal relationships and connections through the STEM workers’ networks with Brazilian professionals and institutions serve as the most effective channels through knowledge and ideas can flow across borders. Furthermore, the study underscores the need for emerging countries to actively engage with their migrant STEM professionals, emphasizing the importance of public policies that leverage their "bridge" role rather than solely focusing on reversing brain drain.
