by Virginia_ESM | Jul 30, 2026 | ESM in the spotlight, News
In the second episode, the discussion continues with a focus on guidance, support networks, and the doubts many PhD candidates face during their first year.
The researchers reflect on mentors who influenced their paths, how they manage moments of uncertainty, and why doubt can be an essential part of scientific progress.
🎧 Episode 2 — Mentorship, Impostor Syndrome & Navigating Doubt
This episode highlights the human side of research and the importance of supportive environments.
by Virginia_ESM | Jul 24, 2026 | ESM in the spotlight, News
In this podcast’s first episode, three PhD candidates from the Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Doctoral Network Edible Soft Matter (Roxane, Marit and Agathe) share how their backgrounds shaped their scientific interests and what led them to pursue research.
They discuss the diverse paths that brought them into the ESM network, the moment they realised research was the right direction, and what they value about being part of an interdisciplinary, international doctoral training programme.
🎧 Episode 1 — Motivation, Backgrounds & the ESM Experience
This conversation offers an open look at the early stages of a PhD and the unique environment provided by the ESM project.
by Virginia_ESM | Jul 1, 2026 | News
One of the aims of the Edible Soft Matter network is to explore innovative ways to transform food by-products into valuable, sustainable ingredients ♻️
Rethinking what we call “waste” is one step towards a more circular food system.
What do you do at home to reduce food waste? 🌱💚
by Virginia_ESM | Jul 1, 2026 | News
A warm welcome to Josep Maria De Dios Pont, who joins the ESM MSCA DN Programme as a PhD candidate at ETH Zurich!
We’re delighted to have him on board and wish him an exciting research journey filled with new ideas, collaborations, and discoveries.
by Virginia_ESM | May 6, 2026 | News
Learn its characteristics and simple ways to eat sustainable. 🌱
Would you try it?
by Virginia_ESM | Apr 14, 2026 | News
The first Training Event of the project took place in Valencia from 9 to 13 February 2026 at IATA-CSIC. It was a special milestone for the network, as it was the first time the doctoral candidates met in person and the whole consortium gathered together.
During the first three days, Doctoral Candidates attended inspiring lectures covering colloidal science, statistics, polymer science, nutrition, machine learning, open science, ethics, and sensory science. These sessions built a common scientific ground while fostering lively interdisciplinary discussions between candidates and lecturers.
The fourth day was dedicated to a poster session, where doctoral candidates presented and discussed their individual research projects with the consortium. They also met with their Scientific Advisory Committees to develop a Personal Career Development Plan tailored to their ambitions and research paths.
Before the closing dinner, the group enjoyed a city tour of Valencia, creating a relaxed setting that encouraged interactions, strengthened connections, and helped build new relationships across the network.
The event concluded with a convivial dinner featuring Spanish cuisine, providing the perfect ending to a productive and memorable week and reinforcing the sense of community within the project.
We are already looking forward to the next Training Event.
