Your doctoral journey:

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

Transformative, professionalizing and international.

As often happens in a PhD, I faced many challenges, each of which ultimately made me stronger and more aware of my potential. I learnt to negotiate and be more assertive, and I acquired knowledge and skills that enhanced my critical thinking, research methodology, and overall effectiveness. It was a deeply satisfying journey of construction, trial and error, during which the project evolved continuously as we explored new hypotheses and methods. I also had the opportunity to travel extensively to collect samples, collaborate with researchers from different countries, and participate in inspiring conferences and training courses. In every way, this PhD has been an enriching chapter in both my academic and personal life.

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

My first oral presentation at an international conference is one of the most memorable experiences of this journey. Sharing my research with other researchers was a rewarding experience. I felt part of a community where everyone was eager to listen, exchange ideas, support, and collaborate for scientific advancement. This moment was not only an opportunity to improve my communication skills but also a chance to receive valuable feedback and suggestions that proved essential for my work.

Your experience at UPPA:

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

Coming from abroad, I did not know UPPA before starting my PhD, but throughout the journey, I was positively impressed by its strong commitment to innovation, interdisciplinarity, international collaboration, and entrepreneurship. The university offers diverse opportunities that promote all of this. Also, international exchanges are more encouraged in border universities, such as UPPA, which is also part of the UNITA alliance.
Many initiatives aimed at raising awareness but also taking concrete action for the environment and fostering a sense of European identity, including activities in collaboration with associations like Liken and Pistes Solidaires.
Its promotion of well-being and sports also contributes to a well-rounded student experience.

The EDENE programme is a successful example of how UPPA is engaged in all these areas. As part of EDENE, I had the opportunity to share this experience with a group of inspiring international colleagues and to benefit from the support of people who were attentive to our needs and genuinely committed to preparing us for the future. The training sessions on energy and environment and the many events organized to promote exchange were thoughtfully designed and highly valuable.

What message would you like to share with a student considering doing a PhD at UPPA?

I would recommend UPPA to anyone looking for a PhD in a dynamic university that truly listens to its students and pursues its values with concrete actions.

Also, the region offers incredible opportunities for outdoor activities.

Your career perspectives:

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

The program offered high-quality training on energy and environment but also to acquire transferable skills. The diversity of approaches and commitment shared with my EDENE colleagues strengthened my sense of community and inspired me to think beyond academia. This experience encouraged me to consider the potential impact of my work on society and politics.

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

Since my bachelor’s degree in biological sciences, my interest focused on evolutionary biology and the innovative methodologies of bio-archaeology. This PhD gave me an incredible opportunity to develop the experience and confidence needed to continue building my career in this field.

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