Aimene Gouasmi, Temporary Teaching and Research Assistant (ATER) at the UPPA, alumni EDENE Cohort#1

Your doctoral journey

If you had to describe your PhD experience in 2 or 3 words, which would you choose?

Challenging, rewarding, innovative.

Is there a memorable moment or anecdote you would like to share?

The path to completing my doctoral research has been marked by significant challenges and accomplishments. My work focused on the numerical analysis of elliptic partial differential equations (PDEs), particularly addressing conservative flux reconstruction and a posteriori error analysis for problems involving interfaces with discontinuous coefficients. This research has been crucial in improving the precision and robustness of numerical methods for complex systems, an area that has wide- ranging applications in both academia and industry.

A memorable moment of my PhD journey was presenting my work at international conferences such as ECCOMAS and ENUMATH. The feedback and constructive criticism from global experts were invaluable, not only in refining my research but also in boosting my confidence as a researcher. The ability to engage in discussions with peers from different disciplines has been a highlight of my experience.

What are you most proud of in your doctoral journey?

I am most proud of my contributions to robust flux reconstruction for elliptic problems and my work on flux-equilibrated a posteriori error analysis using CutFEM for interface problems. These developments not only enhance the accuracy and efficiency of numerical simulations but also provide a framework for adaptive mesh refinement, making it easier to handle more complex computational scenarios. The theoretical results from my publications have been validated through extensive numerical experiments, and they continue to be a core part of my research legacy.

The impact of this research extends beyond the academic realm. It contributes to the development of more reliable numerical tools, which can be applied in engineering, physics, and environmental sciences—fields that often rely on high-fidelity simulations for problem-solving. Through my work, I hope to influence the future of computational methods used in these industries.

Your experience at UPPA

How did you experience your PhD journey at UPPA and within the EDENE programme?

My time at UPPA and within the EDENE programme has been both academically enriching and professionally empowering. It allowed me to grow as a researcher, build a strong professional network, and gain invaluable experience in scientific communication and international collaboration.

The EDENE programme offered a variety of training opportunities, including scientific courses, software skills development, and transferable skills workshops, which equipped me with a broad set of tools and knowledge. These skills were instrumental in refining my technical abilities and enhancing my capacity to communicate and manage projects effectively.

At the same time, being part of the Laboratory of Mathematics and their Applications (LMAP) at UPPA provided an ideal research environment. One of the main research axes of LMAP focuses on numerical analysis and computational mathematics, which aligned perfectly with my research objectives. I particularly benefitted from the invaluable guidance and support from my supervisor, whose feedback and thoughtful exchanges throughout the research process were instrumental in shaping my work. I also had the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions with expert researchers and colleagues, which helped me continually refine my approach.

The EDENE programme and LMAP offered unique resources, such as international mobility, which enabled me to attend several key conferences across Europe. These experiences expanded my professional network and allowed me to present my work to international audiences, gaining valuable feedback that directly influenced the direction of my research.

What skills did you develop over the years (scientific, transferable, interpersonal…)? 

Throughout my PhD, I developed strong scientific skills in numerical analysis, especially in finite element methods and adaptive mesh refinement, which are crucial for tackling complex computational challenges. Additionally, my programming skills in languages such as Python and C as well as familiarity with scientific libraries like FEniCS have been essential in implementing and testing my research methods. Beyond technical expertise, I also developed transferable skills that are vital for academic and professional growth. These include effective communication through public speaking, which I practiced at various international conferences and seminars, as well as project management skills developed while managing multiple research tasks and teaching responsibilities.

Furthermore, my role as a vacataire at UPPA provided invaluable experience in teaching. These experiences have been foundational in preparing me for my current role as an ATER at University of Perpignan, where I continue to teach and further my research, while aiming to balance both aspects as I move toward my long-term career goal of becoming a Maître de conférence.

Your career perspectives

How did being part of the H2020 MSCA COFUND EDENE programme influence your career path?

The H2020 MSCA COFUND EDENE programme played a key role in shaping my career. The programme not only provided me with essential funding and resources for my research but also equipped me with the skills and experience needed to advance in my academic career. As I pursue post-doctoral opportunities, I am excited to apply the skills and knowledge gained during my PhD to contribute to innovative research in applied mathematics and computational sciences.

Is your current position aligned with your academic background and aspirations?

Yes, my current position as a Temporary Teaching and Research Assistant (ATER) at UPPA is fully in line with my academic background and long-term career goals. It allows me to continue my research while teaching—two essential pillars of my professional project to become an associate professor. This is my second ATER position after my first experience at the University of Perpignan, following my thesis. This experience is helping me prepare for the challenges and responsibilities I will face as I move toward securing a position as a Maître de conférence in the future.

Want to know more?   

The EDENE doctoral programme, funded by the European H2020 Marie Skłodowska-Curie COFUND initiative and managed by the University of Pau and Pays de l’Adour (UPPA), aims to train international researchers in the fields of energy and the environment. By promoting an interdisciplinary, intersectoral, and international approach, the programme helps strengthen the impact of research on these major challenges. Between 2021 and 2026, 30 high-potential international PhD candidates were recruited, bringing substantial added value to scientific and technological innovation in these strategic areas.

EDENE programme presentation