In the frame of the international strategies and common actions of the Écoles normales supérieures in France, ENS de Lyon has taken the lead in the creation of a partnership with the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER) in India.

In 2018, the ENS-IISER network implemented a framework agreement allowing their institutions to collaborate on different levels: development of exchange programs, joint training, seminars, joint research and publications, as well as research internships.

Nikita SHARMA is nearing the end of her three-month PhD research stay at the Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle de Lyon (IGFL), under the supervision of Samir MERABET. A doctoral student at the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Bhopal, India, she joined ENS de Lyon through the BIOSANTEXC program.

Nikita's research is in the field of molecular biology, genetics, and developmental biology. She focuses on understanding the roles of nucleoporins, particularly Y-complex nucleoporins, in development and tissue homeostasis using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism. During her research stay at ENS de Lyon, she worked on projects related to nuclear pore complex biology and explored the molecular mechanisms underlying the function of nucleoporins, particularly in autophagy. Looking ahead, she hopes to pursue an academic career and contribute to fundamental research in cell and developmental biology.

Nikita chose France because of its internationally recognised research environment and strong commitment to fundamental science. More specifically, she selected ENS de Lyon for its excellent reputation in life sciences, world-class research laboratories, and collaborative scientific environment. Her decision was also influenced by an existing collaboration between her home laboratory and Samir MERABET’s team at IGFL, which allowed her to become familiar with the research carried out in Lyon before joining.

Before arriving in France, Nikita already knew about the country’s rich scientific tradition and ENS de Lyon’s reputation for excellence in research and education. Her first impressions were very positive. Lyon particularly impressed her with its blend of history and modernity, while the welcoming atmosphere at ENS de Lyon helped her quickly adapt to her new environment.

During her stay, Nikita had many opportunities to interact with French and international students and researchers. She particularly appreciated discovering different scientific perspectives and cultures. “These interactions not only helped me improve my communication skills but also broadened my understanding of international research environments,” she explains. She also built meaningful friendships and valuable professional connections throughout her stay.

This research stay strengthened Nikita’s interest in pursuing an international academic career. She gained hands-on experience with advanced experimental techniques while improving her scientific reasoning, data analysis, and presentation skills. Beyond the technical aspects, she also learned how to work effectively in a multicultural environment and became more confident collaborating with researchers from diverse backgrounds.

Nikita greatly enjoyed her stay in France, both professionally and personally. She appreciated the modern laboratories, comfortable accommodation, and campus facilities, as well as discovering French culture and cuisine. “The people I met at ENS de Lyon were supportive, friendly, and passionate about science,” she says. Overall, the experience exceeded her expectations and represents an important milestone in her academic journey.

Although adapting to a new country and completing administrative procedures required some patience, Nikita quickly settled in thanks to the support of the institution and her fellow students. She strongly recommends the BIOSANTEXC programme to students considering a similar mobility experience, highlighting its excellent research environment, international atmosphere, and supportive community as key strengths.