Marie Skłodowska-Curie Doctoral Fellow, Nur Arifin Akbar from Indonesia, Shares the Story of How He Secured the Prestigious EnTrust Fellowship at the University of Palermo in Italy

My name is Nur Arifin Akbar, an Indonesian national currently based in Palermo, Italy. I am an accomplished technology leader specializing in Blockchain and Artificial Intelligence with extensive experience in the banking industry. I am currently pursuing doctoral research in data management with a focus on agentic LLM-based data sharing systems at the University of Palermo. I decided to pursue further education to develop novel approaches for trustworthy data sharing in agricultural environments, combining my expertise in AI, blockchain, and distributed systems to address real-world challenges in sustainable agriculture and food security.

 Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Fellowship Details

I received the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Fellowship under Horizon Europe (Grant Agreement No. 101073381) for my PhD studies at the University of Palermo, Italy. This prestigious scholarship funds my doctoral research within the EnTrust project: "Next Generation of Trustworthy Agri-Data Management."

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

I was offered other MSCA and non-MSCA scholarships through direct interviews with professors at various institutions, but I had to decline them after accepting my current MSCA fellowship.

Educational Background

I hold a Master's degree in Informatics from Universitas AMIKOM Yogyakarta, Indonesia, with a perfect GPA of 4.0/4.0, where I wrote my thesis on "Solving a Trilemma in Blockchain using Novel Algorithm." I also completed an Erasmus+ mobility program at Universidad de Murcia, Spain (2021-2022), specializing in 5G, IoT, Micro-services, Edge Computing, and Signal Processing. My educational background provided me with strong theoretical foundations and practical skills in computer science, AI, and blockchain technologies. My research projects in AI-based vaccine prediction, camera-based monitoring systems, and blockchain solutions directly prepared me for advanced research in agentic LLM-based data sharing systems for agriculture.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the University of Palermo?

I did not do specific preparation for institutional applications. I relied on my existing academic record, research publications, and professional achievements that I had already built throughout my career.

How Did You Find Information About Scholarships and the University of Palermo?

I found scholarship opportunities through academic networks, research collaborations, and direct contacts with professors who were impressed by my research portfolio and professional background.

Did You Take Any Standardized Tests?

If So, How Did You Prepare for Them? I did not take formal standardized English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. I obtained C2 level certification through free online platforms (such as EF Set) on my first attempt. My experience demonstrates that a strong research portfolio, publication record, and professional achievements can often compensate for the lack of formal standardized test scores when applying for prestigious scholarships like MSCA.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Fellowship?

I did not do specific preparation for the scholarship application. I relied entirely on my existing portfolio of publications in ISI and Scopus-indexed journals, my professional experience, and my track record of awards and recognitions.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My application stood out due to my unique combination of academic excellence (perfect Master's GPA), industry leadership experience, proven research capabilities with multiple publications in indexed journals, and demonstrated impact through awards and recognitions. My interdisciplinary expertise spanning AI, blockchain, and security, combined with practical experience implementing solutions in real-world banking environments, demonstrates both technical depth and innovation potential. My vision for applying agentic LLMs to agricultural data sharing aligned perfectly with European research priorities in trustworthy AI and food security.

What Would You Have Done Differently if You Were Going Through the Process Again?

I would have started building international research collaborations earlier and sought more opportunities for interdisciplinary projects that bridge computer science with domain-specific applications like energy. I would also have focused more on science communication skills to better articulate complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.

What Advice Would You Give Those Looking to Apply for a Similar Scholarship?

Focus on building a strong foundation of research publications and practical achievements throughout your career rather than last-minute preparation. Your existing portfolio of work, awards, and professional impact will speak louder than any specific test preparation. Network extensively through academic conferences and professional platforms to discover opportunities through direct professor contacts. Be selective about which opportunities to pursue based on alignment with your long-term research goals. Remember that scholarships like MSCA value both academic excellence and real-world impact, so demonstrate how your work can benefit society. Most importantly, a strong research portfolio and proven track record can often outweigh the need for formal standardized test scores.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically, Not Knowing the Native Language of the Country?

Yes, potential students may face some academic challenges, not knowing Italian, especially in navigating administrative processes with local authorities