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.

Naman ARORA experience at ENS de Lyon

Naman ARORA, 23 years old, completed his six-month internship at CIRI under the supervision of Saïdi M HOMA SOUDJA in collaboration with Stéphane PAUL’s lab in Saint-Etienne. He is a student at IISER Mohali, and his research focuses on shaping T cell response at homeostasis. The experience, he says, has been deeply enriching and pivotal in shaping his future goals. 

The project has benefited me a lot, it’s been such a good experience.

Naman had long dreamt of doing an internship abroad, particularly in Europe. Encouraged by his  friend, Nancy NANCY , who had previously completed an internship in Germany, he began exploring options. France, with its rich culture and scientific reputation, became an appealing destination. Through contacts at ENS de Lyon and a recommendation from Jacqueline MARVEL, Naman was introduced to Dr. Saïdi. 

I knew about ENS de Lyon’s reputation, they take the best students. It felt like the right place.

The arrival in France, however, was not without its challenges. After a long journey with heavy luggage, Naman reached Lyon on the same flight as Nancy. Her guide came to meet them, and they navigated their way via the Rhône Express and Metro B to reach ENS de Lyon. But things quickly took a more positive turn once Naman settled into his lab. The advanced equipment, the welcoming and the attitude of researchers stood out to him.

It was a bit overwhelming at first. It was my first time in France, and everything felt new. But I quickly got used to the environment. The labs are very well equipped compared to India. The staff and researchers are approachable. You don’t feel the pressure of hierarchy here.

His integration into the academic environment also gave him a chance to connect with fellow students. Despite being based in Saint-Étienne, Naman also had opportunities to meet other students, including PhD candidates and visitors from UCBL.

I worked closely with an M2 student who joined in January. We collaborated on a project, and she’ll be continuing the work after I leave.

Life in France, outside the lab, was equally impactful. Naman found the air fresh, the food nourishing, and the culture refreshing. While he did not use the ENS sports facilities, he kept active by going to a nearby Fitness Park. Though interaction within his residence was limited, the general atmosphere at ENS de Lyon was friendly and supportive.

It was a very positive experience.The work-life balance here is so different from India. I feel healthier and more balanced.It helped me become more independent.

One of the most significant outcomes of this internship has been the personal and professional growth it brought him. The internship also played a key role in shaping Naman’s next steps. With newly acquired skills and confidence, he began applying for PhD positions.

The BIOSANTEXC program opened new horizons. I learned so much here. Thanks to this internship, I got preselected for a PhD in Austria, and I have also received an offer from Dr. Saïdi himself.

His final words are filled with encouragement :

I would definitely recommend doing an internship in Europe or especially in France at ENS de Lyon, under the BIOSANTEXC program. It’s an experience that makes you more confident, more independent, and more ready for what comes next.