As part of the ENS-IISER partnership, Sanika GHADAGE, IISER Bhopal student, completed a three-month internship at the RDP.
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.
Sanika GHADAGE’s experience at ENS de Lyon
Sanika, 22, completed her three-month internship at the RDP under the supervision of Pradeep DAS. She is a student at IISER Bhopal, and her research focuses on imaging of fluorescent reporter lines. With aspirations in the field of biology and an interest in hands-on research projects, Sanika was eager to gain international experience and deepen her scientific expertise.
Sanika chose to come to France, and specifically to ENS de Lyon, after hearing from colleagues about the country’s favorable work-life balance and the excellent research environment at the school. "ENS de Lyon has well-equipped laboratories and a supportive research community," she notes.
Her decision was also influenced by friends who had previously interned there, which gave her insight into life and studies in Lyon.
Upon arrival, Sanika’s first impressions were overwhelmingly positive. She found the experience welcoming and enjoyed meeting people from different backgrounds. The campus facilities impressed her, particularly the accommodations, which she described as comfortable and pleasant. She also appreciated the opportunity to interact with both French and international students, which she found enriching.
During her internship, Sanika acquired many new skills and discovered new aspects of her field, opening up broader horizons for her future studies and career. She particularly enjoyed the practical experience in well-equipped labs and the collaborative environment at ENS de Lyon.
Reflecting on her stay in France, Sanika highlighted the warmth of the people and the cultural experience, which made her time memorable. She did encounter some minor difficulties, particularly translation issues.
Overall, Sanika strongly recommends ENS de Lyon to other students considering the same program.
"It’s a fantastic opportunity and the team are very supportive," she adds.
Sanika’s internship illustrates how international experiences at ENS de Lyon can provide both professional growth and cultural enrichment, making it a highly recommended destination for aspiring researchers.
