Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Fellow, Théliau Rage from France, Pursues Research in Microtechnology within the HINA Doctoral Network at PIEMACS Sàrl, Lausanne, Switzerland

My name is Théliau Rage, and I am from France. During the final year of my engineering degree at SUPMICROTECH-ENSMM in Besançon, I decided to pursue a PhD focused on microtechnology. I learned about an open position within the MSCA HINA Doctoral Network on Hybrid Integration of Alkaline Niobate-Tantalate Films for Advanced Photonic and Piezoelectric Devices. Given my academic and professional background in MEMS devices and microtechnology, I applied for a position at PIEMACS Sàrl on the EPFL campus in Lausanne, Switzerland.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Scholarship Details

My host institution is PIEMACS Sàrl (Lausanne, Switzerland), and my degree-awarding university is the Université Marie et Louis Pasteur (Besançon, France) from the doctoral school SPIM (Sciences Physiques pour l’Ingénieur et Microtechniques).

Funded by the Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions program, the HINA project proposes the hybrid integration of alkaline niobate-tantalate thin films into photonic and acoustic devices. The goal is to develop a high-performance, affordable thin film technology viable for industrial applications. HINA combines expertise from leading research groups in academia and industry, focusing on synthesis, fabrication, characterization, and material integration. Furthermore, the initiative aims to train young researchers and strengthen academia-industry collaboration, enhancing Europe’s leadership in advanced technologies.

The MSCA funding is a comprehensive package designed to cover all aspects of a researcher's life. It includes a generous living allowance (adjusted for the host country's cost of living), a mobility allowance, and, if applicable, a family allowance. It is structured more like a salary for a research position than a simple stipend, making it one of the most attractive PhD funding schemes in the world.

Educational Background

I have been incredibly lucky with the education and the opportunities I have had during my academic path.

Engineering degree from SUPMICROTECH-ENSMM, Besançon, France (2021-2025).

SUPMICROTECH is a public-sector higher education and research school that provides multidisciplinary training for engineers, with a particular focus on mechatronic systems and microsystems.

I completed three prestigious internships: at ONERA (Paris, France), working on MEMS sensors for aerospace applications; at Jet Aviation (Basel, Switzerland), focusing on acoustics for aircraft; and at THALES (Valence, France), where I worked on MEMS sensors and acoustics for aerospace applications.

Preparatory class for Engineering School, Dijon, France (2018-2021).

Two or three intensive years preparatory course with the main goal of training students for enrolment in one of the “Grandes Écoles”. Whereas enrollment in public universities in France is open to any school leaver with an adequate baccalaureate (A-levels), enrollment in the “Grandes Écoles” is restricted to the highest-ranked students in a separate national competitive examination.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to Institutions?

We received an email from our school about positions opening in the MSCA HINA program.

How Did You Prepare to Apply to the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Scholarship?

With the help of a professor from my engineering school, I wrote a cover letter to highlight my motivation and my professional background.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or French?

My work is conducted in English within an international environment. I collaborate with people from various countries, and English is the most effective way to communicate.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

• Extensive expertise in micro-fabrication and Finite element modelling.
• Good theoretical knowledge.
• Motivation.
• Pleasant personality.

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

Nothing in particular, I believe I have always done my best, approaching every task with a positive attitude.

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

Do not hesitate, just try to apply.