Marie Skłodowska-Curie Scholarship Recipient, Yasmine Ferchichi from Tunisia and Italy, Shares Her Journey of Pursuing a PhD in Genetics at the University of Valencia, Spain

My name is Yasmine Ferchichi. I was born in Italy and lived there until I was six years old, then moved to Tunisia, where I completed my schooling under the French system, graduating high school with a Bac in Sciences. I have always been fascinated by science, particularly genetics. Since my third year of high school, I knew that genetics would play an important role in my life. I am also passionate about languages; I speak five languages—Italian, Arabic, French, English, and Spanish—which has allowed me to navigate different societal and cultural contexts throughout my life.

After high school, I returned to Italy to pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences. Initially, I found the basic courses challenging and somewhat tedious, but I now realize they laid the foundation for my current achievements. During my second year, I took several genetics courses and rediscovered my passion for the subject. I also completed transversal courses and a thesis focused on genetics.

Driven by curiosity about medical sciences, I then pursued a Master’s degree in Biology Applied to Biomedicine at the University of Pisa, focusing on molecular biology, genetics, pathology, and biochemistry.

Marie Skłodowska-Curie Scholarship Details

I am currently a PhD candidate under a Marie Skłodowska-Curie Scholarship, part of the ENTRY-DM network, project number:101169266. ENTRY-DM “ Interdisciplinary doctoral training on oligonucleotide-based therapies for myotonic dystrophy” (HORIZON-MSCA-2023-DN-01)

I am based in Valencia, Spain, where I hold a contract as Personal de Investigación at the University of Valencia. My monthly stipend is higher than 2.000 euro gross, although the exact amount varies depending on the country and taxation

Were You Offered any Other Scholarships?

I participated in other PhD competitions. The most relevant was a PhD position at Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna di Pisa, Istituto di Biorobotica, where I was accepted into Professor Stefano Palagi’s group, CELLOIDS, with a Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna PhD scholarship.

Educational Background

• Bachelor’s Degree in Biological Sciences (Italy): Graduated with 94/110, equivalent to a GPA ≈ 2.55/4.0, completed in 3 years and 9 months.
• Master’s Degree in Biology Applied to Biomedicine (University of Pisa): Graduated with 110/110, equivalent to a GPA = 4.0/4.0, completed in 1 year and 6 months.

My educational background gave me a strong foundation in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and pathology, which directly prepared me for PhD-level research in genetics and biomedical sciences.

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

How Did You Find Information About Marie Skłodowska-Curie Scholarships and the University of Valencia?

My former master’s thesis supervisor introduced me to prestigious Marie Curie PhD programs. I then conducted my own research on potential opportunities, focusing on programs that matched my interests in genetics and molecular biology.

 Did You Take Any Standardized Tests? If So, How Did You Prepare for Them?

I did not take the SAT, GRE, or similar tests. I relied on my previous qualifications at the University of Pisa, including a B2 English certification.

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

After completing my Master’s in July 2024, I applied to over 30 PhD competitions. Interviews are highly competitive, and I was invited to around 5–6. I prepared rigorously by carefully reading the call for applications, studying molecular pathways, biochemical mechanisms, genes, proteins, and pathologies relevant to the project. I repeated my preparation multiple times to ensure mastery of the details.

Are Your Classes Conducted in English or Spanish? 

As a PhD student, I do not have regular classes, but I am required to take some courses for credit during the PhD. Most courses are conducted in English, while a few are in Spanish or Valencian.

Would Potential Students Have Any Problems Academically Not Knowing Spanish?

Potential students should have at least a B1 level in the host country’s language to avoid academic difficulties.

What Do You Think Made Your Application Stand Out?

My deep preparation in the molecular and genetic mechanisms underlying specific pathologies helped my application stand out.

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

I would have approached the interviews with less anxiety.

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

• Regularly check the websites of universities and scholarships of interest.
• Reach out to previous scholarship recipients via LinkedIn for advice—they can provide insights that are incredibly valuable.
• Consult professors and supervisors; their guidance can be crucial during the application process.