Nadeeshani Gamage, Sri Lanka
ACES Cohort 6
Tell us a little bit about where you are now after graduating from the ACES programme?
I am a PhD student in Nantes University, France. My research is entitled "Bacterial-Produced Growth Potential for Benthic Marine Diatoms' Lipid Production". This is an extension of my Master's research. I was lucky enough to start my PhD soon after finishing ACES+ Master's. I was also able to secure a government fund for this PhD when I was about to finish my Master's research.
From this project, we believe that we can find solutions for currently prevailing issues in benthic diatom biotechnology through utilising naturally existing interactions between benthic diatoms and bacteria. Benthic diatom culturing, genomics, lipidomics and metabolomics are main disciplines covered by this research.
How was your ACES experience and how did it contribute to your personal and professional development in the aquaculture industry?
Simply, fantastic.
Personally, ACES+ boosted my confidence in myself to work internationally. Working with bright students worldwide and learning from expert professors in four different universities gave me an opportunity to be a part of an intellectually stimulating environment. Although what I am doing now is indirectly contributing to the aquaculture industry, I believe, the knowledge to pursue my PhD was received from the ACES+ programme. I was able to see my future through ACES. I identified my passion and how I should contribute to this world and my country in the future. Thanks again to programme leader Liz for selecting me.
Best part about being an ACES student?
Although COVID-19 pandemic took control at the beginning of the programme, I was able to travel to several countries. The best part was, I was not alone. I had a gang from different countries to travel with. We had fun whenever we had free time. We did some cultural activities like trying different tastes from different countries. Everyone cooked their indigenous cuisines, and we enjoyed it a lot. When it comes to academics, we helped each other to upgrade our marks. Sometimes, we studied together. It was very efficient and effective. Sharing knowledge and our experience with everyone actually enriched me professionally and personally. We were taking care of each other, when someone died close to our families, when someone was sick, we were together facing those situations. ACES+ was a family to me.
Most challenging part of the ACES programme?
Sometimes, cultural differences among students were a bit challenging to me.
On the other hand, studying in non-English speaking countries was the biggest challenge. Thanks to ACES+, I started learning French during my third semester and I continued learning French even in the 4th semester. I speak a little French now.
Any advice for current and prospective ACES students?
If you are selected, you are in the right hands. Try to do a SWOT analysis on yourself, identify your opportunities and make connections. Discuss with your mentors and professors about your future ambitions. Study while enjoying yourself!
If your passion is to be an aquaculturist, apply for the ACES programme. Highly recommended!
