• Why did you agree to be the MOOC’s sponsor?

I hardly accept this kind of proposal because when I do, I am 100% involved, which inevitably limits the number of commitments I can make. That being said, I did not hesitate to respond positively to PhDOOC when they reached out to me, mainly because of the work that needs to be done in France to promote the PhD degree and holders. Each small step we take will allow us to make greater ones together.

• What did you like about PhDOOC? 

PhDOOC values ​​the PhD by talking about it and promoting it. In France, only a few people know what a PhD in the sciences really is. The mission of PhDOOC is noble and fundamental if we want to attract the next generations of talent to these sectors, and ensure that the research conducted by PhD students in our country benefits society and economy.

• Why do you think helping young doctors and PhD candidates to understand their future career is important?

When you are conducting research and working towards getting your PhD, you think a lot about the next steps, i.e., what you can do once you graduate. We are often unaware of all the possible paths we can take, because once again, the PhD is not fairly valued in our country. Using the MOOC to reflect on all these questions is an idea worth exploring.

• would you have a word of encouragement to potential participants of the 7th season of the MOOC?

My advice would be to not underestimate their value, their skills and their high added value in the professional world, whether in academia, the public sector, industry... Anything is possible. Do not limit yourself. A teacher once told me “Let others close the door for you”. They said everything, do not close the door yourself but let others close it for you!

• What piece of advice would you give participants to prepare for their next career step?

I would tell them to not put too much pressure on the choice of the first post-PhD career step. Because no matter the first path chosen, there are plenty of intersections that will allow them to change course later. We PhDs have an extraordinary level of adaptability and know how to get considerable amounts of work on complex subjects done. Trust in yourself.