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.

Achyusman SAMANTA's experience at ENS de Lyon

Achyusman SAMANTA completed his six-month internship at the IGFL under the supervision of Jonathan ENRIQUEZ. He is a student at IISER Pune, and his research focuses on using spatial transcriptomic to understand cell diversity.

For Achyusman, choosing France was about curiosity and opportunity. He wanted to explore how other countries and researchers approach scientific questions. ENS de Lyon stood out as one of the top universities in France and Europe, offering him the best possible experience. Through this internship, he hoped to gain not only advanced scientific knowledge but also valuable cultural perspectives.

“France is a country full of scientific development, one of the leading nations in Europe with great achievements and efficiency in science.”

Before arriving, Achyusman admits he did not know much about France. But once in Lyon, his first impression was striking. The weather and atmosphere of the city immediately resonated with him.

“I liked the peace I saw in Lyon. It’s a very good environment for anyone, especially for scientists who value calmness.”

Achyusman was impressed by the ENS de Lyon campus. According to him, the laboratories were very well-equipped, with advanced and modern machines. He appreciated the accommodations at the residence and enjoyed the sports facilities. The university restaurants and CROUS cafeteria provided good food.

The internship also offered many opportunities for cultural and academic exchange. Achyusman interacted with both French and international students, including an Italian colleague in the lab who shared perspectives on science in Italy. He also attended student colloquia, which he found “very helpful.” Beyond campus, he discovered initiatives such as student associations renting bikes freely through NGOs, which made life in Lyon even more enjoyable.

This experience opened new horizons for Achyusman. It helped him refine his vision for a PhD, whether in France or elsewhere. He learned new techniques, tools, and software that gave him alternative ways of approaching scientific problems. 

 “I discovered more technical methods and particular applications, which will be very useful in my career.”

Achyusman also appreciated the cultural aspects of his stay. Coming from India, he found French cuisine a contrast, but enjoyed the balance between work and personal life.

“There’s time to explore the city and meet people. I really like it. The people are very friendly, the transport system is efficient, and the lifestyle feels very well-ordered.”

Of course, there were some challenges. The language barrier was one of the main difficulties, especially since he did not speak French. Administrative processes such as banking were slow compared to India’s highly digital systems. Despite the challenges, Achyusman is enthusiastic about recommending ENS de Lyon to other students.

“Of course. It’s a new experience, a different country and culture, and a very good opportunity to globalize yourself. You understand how things work in another country, and Lyon is a city I really like.”

This experience was made possible thanks to BIOSANTEXC, which offered Achyusman the opportunity to come to France for his internship. Grateful for this support, he was also pleased that his PI decided to extend his stay through another source of funding. This opened yet another door for him, reinforcing his determination to pursue his scientific journey.