1. What challenges did you encounter in the course of your 2-year MSCA fellowship?
During the MSCA fellowship, I encountered different challenges. First of all, building the network for the activities proposed in the work plan took considerable time. This was fundamental for the development of the research activities. In order to facilitate the progress of the activities, I had to coordinate different alternatives to ensure the conclusion of the workplan. Secondly, I had to manage research work together with activities related to the development of transversal skills. For instance, the choice of secondment was not straightforward, and I suggest to prioritize the search of the non-academic organization in advance in order to ensure full achievement of the MSCA training goals.
2. What were the most rewarding aspects of being a MSCA fellow in this IMPACT program?
Being a MSCA fellow in the IMPACT program had several rewarding aspects. For example, the VUB Tech Transfer Office offered a range of activities/training in order to upgrade our transversal skills. Another important aspect was to second in a non-academic organization. Altogether, these activities had the potential to enhance my curriculum and be prepared for my next professional steps.
3. In what way did the MSCA program (including the pitch of your business case) has helped or will help you in mapping out your next career path?
Considering the possibility of getting transversal skills training, in particular related to technology transfer, I had the opportunity to identify different stakeholders in my project field in Belgium and at the European level. For example, the exercise on the business case improved our analytical skills to manage research projects from an innovative and interdisciplinary way in academia.