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You are currently an ELLIS PhD Program student. How did you learn about the program, and what attracted you to it and to the ELLIS network in general?
You are currently an ELLIS PhD Program student. How did you learn about the program, and what attracted you to it and to the ELLIS network in general?
I was highly attracted to the ELLIS PhD Program due to its exceptional offering of collaborating closely with two distinguished Natural Language Processing experts and their research teams, each located in distinct European countries. This dual-lab arrangement not only provides access to cutting-edge research environments but also enhances my academic journey. Moreover, the expansive ELLIS network facilitates connections with researchers from diverse backgrounds, thereby broadening my horizons.
How does the PhD application process work? How did you choose your supervisors?
How does the PhD application process work? How did you choose your supervisors?
I discovered the ELLIS PhD & Postdoc Program during my search for Ph.D. positions. The application process is straightforward, beginning with the submission of an online application accompanied by a CV, motivation letter, and two recommendation letters. Following the submission, I awaited feedback for approximately one to two months before receiving an email from Hinrich, my primary Ph.D. supervisor, expressing interest in conducting an interview. Post-interview, both of us submitted our preferences, and upon successful matching, I secured a place in the program. Subsequently, André from IST joined as my secondary supervisor, and I officially gained admission to the ELLIS PhD & Postdoc Program.
How do you find having two supervisors from labs in different countries? Does it give you different research perspectives?
How do you find having two supervisors from labs in different countries? Does it give you different research perspectives?
My primary supervisor is Prof. Hinrich Schütze from LMU Munich, Germany, while my secondary supervisor is Prof. André Martins from IST, Portugal. I first got matched with Hinrich, and then Hinrich recommended several potential secondary supervisors. Among them, I expressed a strong interest in collaborating with André due to my admiration for his research on sparsemax. We reached out to André and arranged a meeting. I was fortunate that he agreed to take on the role of my secondary supervisor.
You did part of your PhD at the Instituto Superior Técnico in Lisbon. What attracted you to Técnico and to Lisbon, and how did you find living here? Would you encourage others to come and do their research here?
You did part of your PhD at the Instituto Superior Técnico in Lisbon. What attracted you to Técnico and to Lisbon, and how did you find living here? Would you encourage others to come and do their research here?
In 2023, I had the pleasure of spending three wonderful months at Instituto Superior Técnico in Lisbon. The vibrant atmosphere and engaging conversations with outstanding Ph.D. students and Postdocs in the André's Sardine group truly left a lasting impression on me. Moreover, Lisbon itself offers a captivating blend of rich history, delicious cuisine, and a delightful climate. The combination of these aspects makes Técnico an irresistible choice for prospective Ph.D. students. I will definitely recommend considering this exceptional destination for academic pursuits.
Have you been able to build collaborations or connections with other students and researchers from within the ELLIS network? If so, what opportunities does ELLIS offer for you to do this?
Have you been able to build collaborations or connections with other students and researchers from within the ELLIS network? If so, what opportunities does ELLIS offer for you to do this?
ELLIS offers numerous opportunities for me to connect with fellow students and researchers. While most of my connections within the ELLIS network are with individuals involved in Natural Language Processing (NLP), I am also keen on establishing connections with those working in diverse fields.
Would you encourage others to apply to the ELLIS PhD program?
Would you encourage others to apply to the ELLIS PhD program?
Absolutely. In my opinion, the ELLIS PhD Program stands out as one of the premier doctoral programs in Europe. It brings together top-notch experts from across the continent, offering students the unique opportunity to select two supervisors from this diverse pool of talent. This not only ensures access to exceptional mentorship but also fosters connections with researchers from two outstanding labs.
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