I recently had the opportunity to take part in a Blended Intensive Programme (BIP), which brought together researchers and academics working across different areas of environmental science. It turned out to be one of the most rewarding weeks of my PhD so far.
The programme combined theory with hands-on experience. We visited wastewater treatment plants, collected real wastewater samples, and carried out fundamental physicochemical and molecular biological analyses. Moving from the classroom to the treatment plant and then into the lab gave us a complete picture of how wastewater research works in practice.
One of my highlights was learning about mRNA and its potential applications in wastewater treatment. My own research looks at how nanomaterials affect the bacterial communities that keep treatment plants working. Because of that, gaining practical experience with molecular techniques felt directly relevant to my work, and it gave me innovative ideas for how these tools could support my research.
Beyond the technical learning, the people made the week special. I met professors, researchers, and fellow participants from universities across the EU GREEN network. Sharing perspectives, discussing research challenges, and learning how others approach environmental problems broadened my own thinking. It was a reminder that tackling issues like water pollution depends on collaboration across disciplines and borders.
The location also carried special meaning. The programme took place in Poland, the birthplace of Marie Skłodowska-Curie. As an MSCA Doctoral Candidate, being there made the experience feel especially inspiring. The programme also strengthened me as a researcher in very practical ways. Working through the data from our wastewater samples, from interpreting physicochemical results to making sense of molecular data, sharpened my analytical skills. It also showed me how distinct types of data can be combined to build a clearer picture of what is happening inside a treatment system. I will carry this directly into my own work, where understanding how bacterial communities respond to nanomaterials depends on connecting chemical and biological evidence.
Just as valuable was the chance to learn from others. I have great respect for the professors and wastewater treatment plant managers who shared their expertise so generously and for the fellow participants who brought such varied perspectives to every discussion. Each conversation helped me look at my own research from a new angle, and I come away with a deeper appreciation of what we can achieve by working together.
