Stepping Beyond Comfort: My First 10 Months as a AUFRANDE Doctoral Researcher in France

A journey across borders, where challenges turned into growth and uncertainties into light.

I created the above saying to reflect my belief that facing new problems and challenges is an excellent way to step outside my comfort zone. Throughout my academic journey, whether during my bachelor or master studies, I have experienced different environments and places that shaped me both personally and professionally.

When I received the AUFRANDE offer letter, I was thrilled. It promised not just a new academic project but also an even bigger shift in my environment. I knew it would allow me to explore new challenges and gain diverse experiences. The unique France-Australia doctoral network was also a major factor in my decision to join this program.

Now, after ten months of my PhD life in France, I’d like to share my experiences so far.

Adaptation: The Key Factor

Coming to a foreign country like France for a PhD was exciting, but it also came with hurdles. The initial phase was filled with bureaucratic processes, secondment requirements, and the challenge of navigating everything in a language I barely knew. Settling down with accommodation and handling French paperwork took much longer than I expected.

Adaptation, however, was not limited to cultural aspects—it extended to my research as well. Coming from a chemistry background, I suddenly found myself in the world of lasers and nanoscience. At first, it was overwhelming, but slowly I began to adjust.

Tip: Even though the adaptation phase is tough, don’t forget to find moments of happiness and fun along the way.

Research: The Fundamental Aspect

My PhD project focuses on femtosecond lasers and the nano world. In brief, I am synthesising nanostructures and nanoparticles using femtosecond laser ablation, with the goal of exploring their potential antibacterial and antiviral applications.

Initially, dealing with sophisticated lasers and learning the basics was a big challenge. With the support of colleagues and supervisors, it took me several months to get comfortable with the instruments and techniques. Now, almost a year in, I feel confident with the instrumentation and am moving forward in my project with hope for strong results.

Tip: Engage in as many scientific discussions with colleagues and supervisors as possible. For me, this has often been more effective than just reading the literature.

Work-Life Balance: The World Beyond Research

Finding a balance between work and life is crucial during a PhD. Beyond research, it’s important to make space for things that excite and relax you.

At LP3, the lab where I work, we organise a “Lab Day,” and this year we celebrated it over three days in the countryside of southern France. It was a refreshing mix of science, travel, food and fun activities. I also take advantage of the Schengen visa to travel across Europe, which helps me stay motivated and return to my research with a fresh mind.

Tip: Investing in your mental health is priceless. Eat well, travel, enjoy and grow.

Achievements: Small but Meaningful Steps

Over the past ten months, I have acquired valuable skills in maintaining and operating sophisticated instruments related to my project and I have also gained experience with research software.

I had the opportunity to participate in the AUFRANDE Annual Event in EC Lyon, where I introduced myself and my research topic and connected with fellow scholars in the program. More recently, I attended the RIANA Training School, where I was awarded third place for my poster presentation. This recognition boosted my confidence, and it gave me the chance to meet and network with researchers working in similar areas.

The Road Ahead: Always a Hope

Looking forward, I will complete part of my research in France and plan to move to Australia by mid-2026 for the next phase of my project. Until then, I aim to give my best to my PhD, continue developing professional and academic skills and embrace new challenges along the way.

And if challenges don’t come to us, why not create some for ourselves? After all, it’s through challenges that we grow.

To learn more about my research project, look here.