Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Fellow, Necmettin Samet Dalga from Turkey, Conducts PhD Research in Photochemistry and Macromolecular Engineering at the Université de Haute-Alsace, France

I am Necmettin Samet Dalga, a Turkish PhD candidate currently conducting my doctoral research in France. My academic background is in chemistry, with a strong focus on photochemistry, photopolymerization, and photo‑responsive materials. My interest in this field developed during my undergraduate studies and deepened through my master’s research, where I worked extensively on the synthesis and characterization of photoinitiators. This trajectory naturally led me to pursue a PhD in photochemistry and macromolecular engineering.

Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Fellowship Details

I was awarded a Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Fellowship under the Horizon Europe program. The scholarship is hosted by the Université de Haute‑Alsace (France) as part of the ESPERANTO doctoral network. The fellowship provides full funding for the duration of the PhD, including a competitive monthly salary, mobility allowance, and research/travel support.

Other Scholarships

In addition to the MSCA fellowship, I previously received the Base of Asian Global Imaging Science (BAGIS) Scholarship from the Japan Student Services Organization during my research stay at Chiba University in Japan.

Educational Background

I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Yıldız Technical University (Turkey). I then completed a Master’s degree in Physical Chemistry at the same institution. My master’s thesis focused on the synthesis and photophysical characterization of a novel polyaromatic ketone photoinitiator. This background provided me with strong foundations in organic synthesis, spectroscopy, and photochemical reaction mechanisms, which were essential for applying to PhD programs in photochemistry.

Preparation for Applying to the Université de Haute‑Alsace

I prepared my applications by identifying research groups whose expertise closely matched my research interests. I carefully studied recent publications from potential supervisors and tailored my motivation letters to highlight scientific alignment rather than applying broadly.

Finding Information About Scholarships

I mainly found scholarship opportunities through academic networks, university websites, and European research portals such as EURAXESS. For the MSCA fellowship, I closely followed calls published under Horizon Europe and monitored doctoral networks aligned with my field.

Standardized Tests

I did not take standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT. Regarding English proficiency, I completed a six-month English preparatory program prior to my bachelor’s degree, and my undergraduate education was conducted entirely in English. In addition, my academic training and research experience in international environments, including Japan and France, further supported the language requirements for admission and scholarships.

Scholarship Application Preparation

I prepared my scholarship application by focusing on the clarity of my research background, consistency of my academic trajectory, and alignment with the project objectives. I also sought feedback from supervisors and senior researchers to refine my motivation letter and CV.

Experience at Université de Haute‑Alsace

My experience at the Université de Haute‑Alsace has been very positive. The research environment is collaborative, well‑equipped, and international.

Academic Rating of Université de Haute‑Alsace

I would rate the institution very highly academically, particularly in photochemistry and polymer science. The laboratory infrastructure and supervision quality strongly support high‑level research.

Support for International Students

The university provides solid support for international students, including administrative assistance, language courses, and integration activities.

Language of Instruction

My doctoral work and courses are conducted primarily in English.

Language Barrier

Academically, not knowing French does not pose major issues, as research and coursework are in English. However, learning French is helpful for daily life and administrative processes.

What Made My Application Stand Out

I believe my application stood out due to my consistent focus on photochemistry, strong hands‑on laboratory experience, international research exposure, and clear motivation aligned with the MSCA project objectives.

What I Would Do Differently

If I were to go through the process again, I would start preparing even earlier and apply to a wider range of competitive international programs in parallel.

Advice for Future Applicants

My advice is to focus on scientific coherence rather than quantity of applications, contact potential supervisors early, and clearly demonstrate how your background fits the scholarship project. Persistence and careful preparation are key.