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.

Prakhar BHARDWAJ's experience at ENS de Lyon

Prakhar BHARDWAJ recently completed a three-month PhD research stay at RDP, under the supervision of Téva VERNOUX. A doctoral student at IISER Tirupati, he joined ENS de Lyon through the BIOSANTEXC program on the recommendation of his supervisor, a choice that aligned well with his academic goals and research aspirations.

France appeared to him as a natural choice, offering rich academic resources and a collaborative environment. ENS de Lyon stood out for its reputation in life sciences and its structured research programs. For Prakhar, the move was a clear step forward in his academic journey.

Upon his arrival in France, Prakhar received a warm welcome. Julie Prata, the lab administrator, played a key role in helping him secure accommodation, a crucial concern for many international students. He also described the campus at ENS de Lyon as “super cool,” with easy access to research laboratories, sports facilities, restaurants, and student housing. The organization and efficiency of the campus services left a strong impression.

“It was reassuring to know that I only had to cover the rent and everything else was taken care of. Everything is accessible, and the system works really well.”

Although Prakhar described himself as an introvert, he quickly adapted and connected with other PhD students, both French and international. He noted that people were always willing to help, from showing him how to navigate supermarkets and restaurants, to assisting him with scientific challenges. 

“Even in the lab, they helped me understand things and guided me through new methods I wasn’t familiar with. It made a big difference in my learning experience and helped me feel more confident in my work.”

Moreover, he came with a clear idea of the field he wanted to work in and his experience at ENS de lyon only reinforced that passion. He emphasized learning how to approach and solve problems, which he sees as a core skill in research.

“This experience helped me better understand what I want to pursue professionally. Being immersed in a new research environment, exposed to different scientific approaches, and working closely with experienced researchers really clarified my interests. ”

The cultural transition was significant. Prakhar noticed differences in work styles between India and France, but embraced them. He particularly enjoyed exploring French cuisine and even developed an interest in cooking. However, the language barrier was a challenge.

“Everything is in French, which was tough at first, but people helped me even with buying tickets or reading signs and Google Translate became a good friend.”

Surprisingly, the application and visa processes were straightforward for him. Applying under the scientific category meant he did not have to pay visa fees, and he received approval within five days. He did, however, suggest that earlier contact between the student and the host PI would help better prepare incoming PhD candidates.

Prakhar would definitely recommend the BIOSANTEXC program to fellow doctoral candidates. He believes the experience not only enhanced his academic knowledge but also gave him clarity on his long-term goals. 

“In India, I felt stuck as if I had reached a point where I couldn’t move forward or see clearly what came next. Coming here completely changed that. It opened up new perspectives, not just academically, but also personally.”

Teva’s insights 

Over the course of the three-month stay, Prakhar’s supervisor noted significant personal and academic growth. Initially, Prakhar appeared hesitant and somewhat uncertain, a natural response when adapting to a new environment and research culture. However, as the weeks progressed, he gradually opened up, began participating more actively in discussions, and took greater initiative in his work. 

“His confidence grew steadily, and he became noticeably more independent and proactive in his research tasks. By the end of his stay, the transformation was evident: he had come a long way, not only as a researcher but also in terms of personal development. ”

On the scientific front, Prakhar adopted a thoughtful and iterative approach to his research. He explored various strategies, drawing on his previous experiences while adapting to the priorities of the host laboratory.

“He tried different strategies, all rooted in previous experiences, and focused on experiments that were a priority. One of the objectives of his stay was to explore a new environment and learn from the expertise available here, which he did. This goal was clearly met, as he demonstrated a genuine willingness to understand different methodologies and integrate new perspectives into his work.”

In conclusion, the experience was mutually beneficial. Prakhar advanced in his research and personal development, while the team at ENS de Lyon valued the exchange. 

"It was a pleasure to host him. Now he knows us, and we know what he can do.”