L'international à l'ESBS : partons aux États-Unis

Albana NRECA, étudiante-ingénieure en biotechnologie en troisième année, nous donne plus de détails sur sa formation à l'ESBS et son stage de fin d'études qu'elle effectue chez l'un de nos partenaires, New England Biolabs !

1. Would you mind sharing your journey before joining the ESBS?

I am Albana NRECA, I am 24 years old and my journey before joining ESBS began with two years of PACES (Première Année Commune aux Études de Santé). After that, I redirected my studies towards a Biology degree, completing L1 and L2 in Chemistry and Biology. It was during a career-focused assignment in L1 that I realized I wanted to become an engineer. I learned about ESBS through an interview with a former student, which also led to an internship at IGBMC in the team where she was doing her PhD. This experience solidified my decision to join ESBS.

2. What did you enjoy the most throughout your three-year engineering training?

Throughout my three-year engineering training at ESBS, I particularly enjoyed the exchange programs in Basel and Freiburg. These experiences provided valuable exposure to different academic environments and cultures. However, the highlight of my training was undoubtedly the numerous practical sessions, especially the bioproduction labs at EASE (European Aseptic and Ste.rile Environment). These hands-on experiences were incredibly enriching and helped bridge the gap between theory and practical application in biotechnology.

3. Where and why did you choose to go abroad for your internship?

Choosing to go abroad for my internship is a significant decision for me. Having lived in France with my parents and never really left Alsace, I see this as an opportunity to not only discover how science functions in different countries but also to learn to live independently. Since I’ve always worked with New England Biolabs (NEB) enzymes in my studies and research, discovering that they also conduct cutting-edge research alongside their commercial work made applying for a summer internship there an obvious choice. I want to experience firsthand the environment of a world-renowned institution whose tools I’ve relied on for years. Currently, I am at New England Biolabs in the United States, and this experience is allowing me to broaden my horizons, both professionally and personally. It is exposing me to advanced research methodologies, collaborative work cultures, and helping me develop a global perspective on biotechnology. The company’s commitment to innovation, combined with its friendly and inclusive community, makes it the perfect setting to grow as a scientist and individual.

4. Can you elaborate on the project you’re currently working on?

Currently, I'm working on an exciting research project that involves exploring uncharted territory in bacterial defense systems. My objective is to characterize and understand the functioning of a bacterial defense system against various phages. This project is particularly thrilling because there's very little existing information or prior research in this area. It's an opportunity to contribute new knowledge to the field and potentially make significant discoveries.

5. Do you think other students would benefit from this type of experience?

I strongly believe other students would greatly benefit from this type of experience. Working on novel research projects abroad provides unique opportunities for personal and professional growth. It challenges you to think creatively, adapt to new environments, and develop problem-solving skills. Moreover, it exposes you to diverse scientific approaches and cultural perspectives, which are invaluable in today's globalized scientific community.

6. Something to share with ESBS students?

For current and prospective ESBS students, I would emphasize the school's strong focus on practical training. The numerous lab sessions and hands-on experiences make the program highly professionalizing. ESBS provides an excellent balance between theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing students well for real-world challenges in biotechnology. Additionally, I would encourage students to take full advantage of the international opportunities offered, as they are incredibly rewarding and contribute significantly to personal and professional development.

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La cellule Relations internationales de l'ESBS est à votre disposition pour vous accompagner et répondre à vos questions  

 esbs-ri(at)unistra.fr