Student Perspective
By: Joshua De Sousa, M.Sc. Materials Science Student | Trent University, Canada
In June 2026, I had the opportunity to participate in the 10th Annual Science & Policy Workshop and 9th International Graduate Student Forum, hosted by the International Institute for Environmental Studies (IIES) and the University of Toulon in France. The week brought together students, researchers, and professors from around the world to discuss some of the most pressing environmental challenges facing society today, including climate change, biodiversity change, pollution, sustainable development, the circular economy, and emerging green technologies.
As a Master’s student in Materials Science at Trent University, I attended the workshop to present my poster, “The Development of Fluorescent Carbon Dots for the Detection of Metal Contaminants”. My research focuses on the development of fluorescent carbon dots, nanomaterials with tunable optical properties, which can serve as low-cost sensing platforms for environmental monitoring. In particular, I investigate their use for detecting metal contaminants such as copper-based pesticides in water systems. Through microwave-assisted synthesis, these carbon dots can be engineered to selectively interact with contaminants and produce measurable fluorescence changes, creating opportunities for accessible and rapid environmental sensing. As concerns surrounding water quality and environmental contamination continue to grow, developing affordable and reliable detection technologies becomes increasingly important. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to the development of practical sensing tools that support environmental protection, pollution monitoring, and sustainable resource management.
Image: Image: Josh De Sousa discussing research on fluorescent carbon dots during the poster session at the 10th Annual Science & Policy Workshop.
One of the most rewarding aspects of presenting my research was the overwhelmingly positive feedback and genuine interest from attendees.
Throughout the poster sessions, I engaged in discussions with researchers from a variety of disciplines who were curious about how I synthesized the carbon dots, whether alternative preparation methods had been explored, the fluorescence quenching mechanisms involved, and where the research might lead in the future. Those conversations provided valuable perspectives and reinforced the potential impact of my work.
Image: Participants of the 10th Annual Science & Policy Workshop gathered at the University of Toulon, representing institutions and research disciplines from across the world.
A particularly memorable moment occurred during the Graduate Forum’s Speed Introduction activities when another participant told me that my poster had been their favourite part of the workshop.
As someone who often questions whether research is making an impact, hearing that was both reassuring and motivating. It reminded me that scientific research is not only about generating data, but also about effectively communicating ideas and inspiring curiosity in others.
My biggest takeaway from the workshop was gaining exposure to the incredible diversity of environmental challenges being addressed around the world. From water security and climate adaptation to pollution monitoring and sustainable development, every presentation offered a unique perspective on how researchers are working toward solutions. I found myself constantly filling my notebook with ideas, observations, and questions sparked by conversations with fellow participants. Ultimately, the collective knowledge shared throughout the week was remarkable. The experience broadened my understanding of global environmental issues and highlighted the value of interdisciplinary collaboration.
Beyond the academic program, one of the most valuable outcomes of the workshop was the professional network I developed. I arrived in France knowing very few people and feeling somewhat intimidated by the prospect of attending an international conference on my own. By the end of the week, I had connected with Master’s students, PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, professors, and professionals from Canada, France, South Africa, Chile, Finland, Scotland, and many other regions. These relationships proved invaluable, not only academically, but personally as well. Navigating a new country became much easier with the support and friendship of the people I met throughout the event.
The Graduate Forum on Île de Porquerolles provided an entirely different but equally impactful learning experience. One of the highlights was the Public Speaking Workshop led by actor Louis-Emmanuel Blanc. His message was simple but powerful: your voice matters, and you have every right to share your perspective with confidence. Because I had presented a poster rather than an oral presentation during the workshop, I initially felt like an “underdog” among my peers. However, during the public speaking exercises, I delivered an emotional and persuasive story that resonated with the audience and ultimately led to a successful outcome.
The experience gave me a new level of confidence in my communication abilities and demonstrated the importance of storytelling in both science and leadership.
Another highlight was participating in the SMILO Sustainable Island Program. Working in interdisciplinary teams of eight, we were challenged to develop strategies that could improve sustainability on a hypothetical island facing issues such as landfill management, energy security, biodiversity conservation, and land-use planning. The exercise encouraged collaboration between participants from vastly different academic backgrounds and demonstrated how diverse perspectives can strengthen environmental decision-making. I learned a tremendous amount from my teammates and gained a deeper appreciation for the complexity of sustainability challenges.
Image: SMILO Serious Game Island map that challenged graduates to develop practical sustainability strategies through interdisciplinary collaboration.
Our time on Île de Porquerolles also included opportunities to learn directly from the island’s sustainability initiatives. We explored topics such as rainfall management, aquifer protection, agricultural practices, biodiversity conservation, and strategies for balancing environmental stewardship with tourism. Seeing these concepts applied in a real-world setting transformed theoretical discussions into tangible examples of sustainable management.
Image: Travelling from Toulon to Île de Porquerolles aboard the ferry for the Graduate Student Forum.
While the academic program was exceptional, some of my favourite memories came from the social and cultural experiences. The Gala Dinner was a particularly special evening, providing an opportunity to strengthen friendships and connect with fellow participants outside of a formal academic setting. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and authentic French cuisine, I found myself reflecting on how fortunate I was to be part of such an international community. The following day was equally unforgettable. A group of us explored Toulon Harbour, rode the cable car to Mont Faron, and visited several local beaches. As someone who is terrified of heights, the journey up the mountain was far more intimidating than I would like to admit. I repeatedly convinced myself that 584 metres “wasn’t that high” while my friends reassured me that the cable car was perfectly safe. Thankfully, they were right. Once at the summit, I was rewarded with one of the most stunning views I have ever experienced.
Looking out across Toulon and the Mediterranean coastline was a moment I will never forget.
Image: Exploring Mont Faron with fellow participants and enjoying panoramic views overlooking Toulon and the Mediterranean coastline.
No reflection on the trip would be complete without mentioning one of the running jokes that developed among our friend group. While visiting a beach in Porquerolles, one of my friends accidentally stepped on a starfish. Attempting to demonstrate my limited French vocabulary, I confidently translated starfish as “poisson d’étoile”. Unfortunately, this translation was completely incorrect and immediately became a source of laughter among the group. Thanks to Khad and Frédérique, the phrase became an inside joke that followed us for the remainder of the trip.
Image: Participants gathered during the Gala Dinner, where new friendships and global connections emphasized the most valuable outcomes of the IIES France experience.
If there is one lesson I will carry forward from this experience, it is simple: take risks.
Before the conference, I seriously considered not attending because I was nervous about travelling internationally by myself for the first time. Ultimately, I decided that I would regret missing the opportunity far more than I would regret stepping outside my comfort zone. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.
The IIES France 2026 Workshop and Graduate Forum not only expanded my scientific knowledge but also changed my perspective on what is possible through collaboration, communication, and international engagement. I arrived knowing almost no one and left with lifelong memories, countless new friendships, a multitude of professional connections, and a renewed motivation to pursue research that can contribute to solving global environmental challenges. For that, I am profoundly grateful.
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