Spotlight on FMIers: the PhD reps

One of the missions of the FMI is to offer talented young scientists from all over the world the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research and become future leaders in academia, industry and other sectors. The FMI's PhD candidate body is represented by six representatives, who serve as a general voice for doctoral researchers. We spoke to the current PhD reps to learn about their work and activities — and what they enjoy the most about their role. What is a PhD rep and how are they elected? - Romane Lyautey: PhD reps represent and support FMI's PhD students, and work towards improving the social and scientific environment at the institute. There are elections about every year and PhD students can nominate themselves to become a PhD rep. There are six positions available and students vote for their representatives. What are the key responsibilities of PhD reps? - Manu Halvagal: We meet with the FMI's Scientific Advisory Board and with the director's board.