Jawad Rabbi, Ph.D. and researcher in thermal energy, alumni EDENE Cohort#2 (Copie)

Your doctoral journey:

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

One memorable moment was our visit to TEREGA, a company that manages natural gas storage and transport. I worked on important topics related to energy and the environment, and it feels good to know that my research can contribute to addressing real-world challenges. I also learned how to work independently, manage my time, and stay focused through ups and downs.

What are you most proud of in your doctoral journey?

I’m proud of how much I’ve grown both as a researcher and as a person during my PhD. I worked on important topics related to energy and the environment, and it feels good to know that my research can contribute to addressing real-world challenges. I also learned how to work independently, manage my time, and stay focused through ups and downs.

Your experience at UPPA:

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

The EDENE programme at UPPA provided a truly international, interdisciplinary, and intersectoral environment. From scientific formations such as a training on sustainable development goals, a visit to Observatoire Midi-Pyrénées at Pic du Midi, and cross-border workshops, to EDENE Doctoral Days and industrial mentoring by a senior researcher from SINTEF Energy, every step was well-integrated and thoughtfully designed. These experiences gave me a platform to grow not just as a researcher but also as a confident communicator and collaborator.

Did you benefit from international mobility or interdisciplinary collaborations?

I had the chance to visit other labs in Spain,  also attended a summer school and worked with people from different countries and research areas. These experiences helped me see new perspectives and improved the quality of my work. It also helped me build a strong network for the future.

Your career perspectives:

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

The EDENE programme has significantly influenced my career trajectory by enhancing my academic skills and expanding my professional network across Europe. The structured mentoring and exposure to industry helped me develop a clear vision of pursuing a career that bridges academic research and industrial application in thermal energy systems.

What advice would you give to a young PhD graduate entering the job market?

Don’t underestimate the value of interdisciplinary learning and networking. The technical skills are vital, but the ability to communicate your work, to collaborate across disciplines, and to adapt to new environments is what will truly set you apart. Take every opportunity for mobility, training, and engagement — they are investments in your 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