These calls for projects are central to the program's training activities and enable us to:

• Promote international collaboration
• Share scientific tools and methods
• Acquire scientific and technical skills

In this article, discover the testimonials of researchers who had the opportunity to participate in an international mobility program lasting several months.

What researchers learned most

Each mobility program brings its own set of discoveries, some very concrete, others more conceptual.

For Ouahiba Madjeda (France > Denmark), financial management emerged as a key skill: "One of the key lessons I learned during this experience was how to effectively plan and manage a budget abroad. It is essential for managing future research projects."

For his part, Aakash Malik (Canada > France) emphasizes above all the importance of cross-disciplinary work: "interdisciplinary collaboration and how integrating different perspectives—chemical engineering, materials science, and environmental assessment—can significantly elevate the impact of a research project."

Leonardo Voltolini (Brazil > France) highlights the unique experience of comparing modeling and experimentation: "Experimental research has many drawbacks to overcome (more than computational studies, which I am more used to). However, confronting these challenges is amazing."

Finally, Fanny Seksek (France > Austria) emphasizes the pure scientific enrichment: "I learned a lot about electrochemistry and its applications in the field of enzymology."

Discovering other ways of working

Mobility also means cultural and organizational shock. In Denmark, Ouahiba was struck by the stability of everyday scientific life, with a real emphasis on work-life balance.

For others, the contrast was in the openness to exchange: "I found the research environment to be more open to spontaneous collaboration and discussion across teams. There was also a strong emphasis on balancing fundamental research with industrial relevance." as Aakash points out about his stay in France.

Finally, Fanny discovered a particular way of working in Austria: "There were less permanent technicians and researchers, which implied more self-organization."

Tips for preparing for international mobility

The feedback all has one thing in common: preparation is the key to a successful stay.

Ouahiba insists on "researching your host lab thoroughly before departure. Having a clear and realistic plan—focused on small but impactful objectives." Aakash also recommends "preparing a clear research objective, but remain flexible, and be proactive in integrating with the local team—scientifically and socially." Leonardo points out that "carefully structuring your schedule is a key factor to achieve relevant results and enjoy your stay." Fanny adds that "reading up on the literature produced by the host lab ahead of the mobility, and defining priorities" saved her valuable time.

International mobility is thus proving to be a strategic tool for biofuel research: it enriches skills, builds bridges between disciplines and cultures, and contributes to the training of researchers capable of innovating in a global context.

Beyond scientific enrichment, these are genuine human experiences that promote cultural openness and the development of lasting networks.

Are you interested in international mobility? The PEPR B-BEST 2025 call for international mobility is now open! To find out more and register, click here.