Merci beaucoup d'avoir accepté l'interview.
Can you provide a brief overview of your journey in the field of nanotechnology and how you became interested in pursuing a PhD in this area?
Thank you for having me! My journey in the captivating realm of nanotechnology and neuroscience began with the realization that the intersection of brains and computers holds immense potential. Inspired by the groundbreaking initiatives such as the BRAIN and Human Brain Projects, Japan's MIND project, and revolutionary companies such as Neuralink, I embarked on a Ph.D. adventure at the University of Lille - IEMN in Lille, France. Specializing in microelectronics and nanoelectronics engineering, my passion for this field ignited during my Master's at ESIEE Paris. It was during my internship at IEMN, where I got introduced to the fascinating world of nanotechnology in the Brain-Machine Interface (BMI) field. This experience laid the foundation for my doctoral research, as I continued to delve deeper into this cutting-edge field, promising advancements in neural interface, as well as a profound exploration into the complexities of the brain that extends into the realms of computing and beyond.
Can you share some key findings or breakthroughs from your research that have the potential to impact the field?
In the course of my research, I've been fortunate to contribute to key findings and breakthroughs at the intersection of nanotechnology and neuroscience. One significant advancement lies in the development of advanced micro-nano sensors and adaptive sensing capabilities. By addressing challenges from the nano-scale (material) up to the millimeter scale (device), this work not only optimized recording quality in neural cultures but also introduced adaptive sensing capabilities, marking a crucial step forward in the field of nanoelectronics in neuroscience.
These breakthroughs hold substantial potential to impact the field by enhancing our understanding of neural activity at various scales. The optimized recording quality in neural cultures provides more accurate and detailed insights into the intricacies of neuron-electrode coupling. Additionally, the introduction of adaptive sensing capabilities brings versatility to neuroprosthetic devices, promising more responsive and personalized Brain-Machine Interface (BMI) technologies.
In essence, these findings contribute to the broader landscape of neuroscience and nanoelectronics, promising advancements that extend beyond the laboratory into real-world applications. The potential impact ranges from improving neuroprosthetics to shaping the future of BMI technologies, offering transformative solutions for individuals across diverse backgrounds and disciplines.
Nanotechnology often involves collaboration across various disciplines. How has interdisciplinary collaboration played a role in your research, and what advice do you have for researchers navigating diverse fields?
In my interdisciplinary research, I seamlessly weave together principles from a spectrum of scientific domains, including physics, electronics, chemistry, biology, data analysis, and microfabrication. My journey navigates from the complications of nanoscale materials to the engineering of macroscopic devices. This interdisciplinary synergy comes to life in the fusion of nanotechnology and neuroscience, a juncture where my engineering expertise harmonizes with the challenges posed by biology.
Operating within the intersection of our nanoelectronics-focused lab (IEMN) and the biology lab (LilNCong), specifically for cell culture, I play a pivotal role as a connecting point between two seemingly distinct worlds. This collaboration not only enriches my research but also enhances the overall understanding of how nanotechnology and neuroscience can converge to create groundbreaking solutions.
Furthermore, extending beyond the boundaries of our immediate labs, collaboration with external entities expands the scope of my work into data analysis and cell imaging investigations. This interconnected web of collaborations underscores the truly interdisciplinary nature of the project, where insights from diverse scientific disciplines converge to unlock novel perspectives at the intersection of nanotechnology and neuroscience.
For researchers navigating diverse fields, my advice is to embrace the collaborative spirit wholeheartedly. Seek out opportunities to engage with experts from different disciplines, be open to learning from their perspectives, and recognize the unique value each field brings to the table. Establishing and nurturing these interdisciplinary connections not only enriches the research experience but also opens doors to innovative solutions that may not have been possible within the confines of a single discipline.
How has your experience in France shaped your perspective on nanotechnology research, and how do you see the global landscape evolving in this field?
My experience in France has significantly influenced my perspective on nanotechnology research. The collaborative and innovative environment, coupled with access to cutting-edge facilities and diverse expertise, has been instrumental in shaping my approach to tackling challenges at the intersection of nanotechnology and neuroscience.
Being part of the research community here has emphasized the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, bridging the gap between different scientific domains. This collaborative spirit, combined with a strong emphasis on fundamental research, has broadened my understanding of the potential applications and impact of nanotechnology.
In the global landscape, I see nanotechnology research evolving into a dynamic force that transcends borders. The collaborative nature of science knows no boundaries, and the interconnectedness of research communities worldwide fosters a collective drive towards pushing the boundaries of nanotechnology. As technology continues to advance, I anticipate a growing convergence of nanotechnology with other fields, leading to transformative breakthroughs with widespread applications.
Moreover, the global landscape of nanotechnology research is becoming increasingly intertwined with societal needs, driving a shift towards applied research that can address real-world challenges. This evolution holds the promise of not only advancing scientific knowledge but also translating nanotechnological innovations into practical solutions that can benefit communities globally.
In essence, my experience in France has instilled in me a global perspective on the future of nanotechnology research—a future characterized by collaboration, innovation, and a profound impact on diverse aspects of our lives.