Student Testimonies

From an early age, I was drawn to scientific research. So I did an STL baccalaureate (Science Technique en Laboratoire), followed by a DUT-GB (Génie Biologique). I then did a Master specialized in infectiology and immunology. This academic background, together with the various internships I did, allowed me to determine the field in which I wanted to carry out my thesis.

I started my thesis at LPHI in October 2023, where I’m studying the persistent infection of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in zebrafish, in Anne Blanc-Potard’s team. I have been very well received in this team and in the laboratory. Weekly seminars allow us to know each other’s research themes, exchange ideas on our subjects and develop our scientific spirit. Furthermore, mutual aid and kindness between students is a particularly strong in the laboratory. I’m starting my thesis with peace of mind and convinced that LPHI is the perfect place to prepare my future scientific career.

I joined the LPHI as a PhD student in 2021. I come from Cuba and my PhD project is part of the Marie Curie Innovative Training Network INFLANET, which gathers international students from different countries working in the field of inflammation.

My PhD project aims at developing a pharmacological model in zebrafish to screen for new anti-inflammatory drugs. In the collaborative environment of LPHI, I have had the possibility to learn about intravital microscopy techniques in zebrafish, and also to improve my skills in molecular biology. The wide range of research subjects related to infections and host immunity that are conducted at LPHI provides a very stimulating scientific environment and the possibility for enriched discussions with other PhD students and researchers.

Scientific and social life at LPHI is also very dynamic and since I arrived, I have had the opportunity to meet new people and make friends from different countries through activities such as the Journal Club or the famous “Pétanque” tournament.

LPHI became my home in 2019 when I was offered a MESRI scholarship to pursue doctoral studies at the University of Montpellier. Having completed a BSc in Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology, and an MPhil in Molecular Cell Biology of Infectious Diseases, with focal interest in the etiology and molecular pathogenesis of malaria, I got intrigued by the complex host-parasite interactions which underpin this dreadful disease.

Consequently, my current studies at LPHI aims at using omics to unravel parasite adaptation to humans during chronic asymptomatic infections. Working on this project has been very challenging and probably one of the toughest endeavors I have pursued. Nonetheless, the availability of resource persons, research facilities, friendly staff and colleagues, diverse scientific themes, and the hospitable working environment LPHI provides, has made the journey enriching and worthwhile. LPHI is definitely a place to be if you are looking for a stimulating environment to do science!

After my pharmacy studies, I wanted to discover basic research in microbiology. For this purpose, I continued my studies in Master 2, where I had the opportunity to do an internship at LPHI in the team of Sebastien Besteiro. I had an excellent experience within the unit, both professionally and in terms of the working atmosphere in the laboratory, which confirmed my choice to apply for a PhD thesis within the team.

I obtained a doctoral grant to study the biogenesis of Iron-Sulfur centers in Toxoplasma gondii for the identification of potential therapeutic targets. From the start of my thesis, I noticed that the LPHI is a very welcoming unit where colleagues and students are also wanting to help each other. LPHI also offers access to state-of-the-art technologies. We attend weekly seminars to open up to other research projects. Collective events such as the Pétanque tournament or the Christmas lunch allow us to meet several times a year. The UMR is internationally recognized, with numerous collaborations and students coming from all over the world. For me, these reasons make the LPHI an excellent laboratory to complete my doctoral studies and to prepare for my future career in science, surrounded by caring and dedicated people!