Testimonial from an XL-CHEM Alumnus: Nathan Jourdainne, PhD Student and Horizon Europe Project Officer

From the XL-CHEM Master’s Program to European Research

In this inspiring video interview, we meet Nathan Jourdainne, a former XL-CHEM Master’s student, now a PhD candidate in polymer chemistry and Project Officer for Horizon Europe at the Nice Institute of Chemistry. He shares his journey, key experiences within the program, and advice for future students aiming to build a scientific career.

Why did you choose XL-CHEM?

Nathan was looking for an innovative, multidisciplinary, and customizable program that combined management training with flexible scientific courses. XL-CHEM offered exactly that—a unique curriculum that allowed him to develop a dual skillset valued in both research and innovation sectors.

“I was looking for a program combining management and à la carte scientific courses.”

XL-CHEM in three words?

Challenging
Innovative
Empowering

What was most valuable to you?

Nathan highlights the mentorship program as one of the most impactful parts of the XL-CHEM experience. It supported him both in the lab—helping him learn how to manage research projects—and outside the lab, by guiding his academic path. Thanks to his mentor’s support, he had the rare opportunity to publish a scientific paper during his Master’s and spend six months abroad in Portugal, working in a leading research lab in Porto.

“My mentor helped me publish a paper and go abroad for six months—an incredible opportunity during a Master’s!”

What are you doing today?

Today, Nathan is pursuing a PhD in polymer chemistry and working as a Project Officer for Horizon Europe. He helps develop and support collaborative research projects at the European level. His role involves building project proposals, working with researchers across Europe, and seeking funding through European grants.

“European projects are key to fostering ambitious and collaborative science.”

One piece of advice?

“Never hesitate to accept an opportunity. Step out of your comfort zone—it’s the only way to grow.”

Your 10-second pitch?

“If you want to do cutting-edge science and be part of an innovative program that prepares you to become a future leader in chemistry, join XL-CHEM!”

🎥 Watch Nathan’s full interview on our YouTube channel.

📚 Learn more about the XL-CHEM Master’s Program: Discover the program