Erasmus+ blended training format and destination choice

The Erasmus+ traineeship is an useful opportunity to benefit from an international exchange once graduated, as in my case, having concluded my studies on the SS24. Not having been before in Scotland, I chose it as destination because of a seminar delivered by a professor coming from Edinburgh. This seminar was hosted during the period I was conducting my master thesis project at the local research institute Max Delbrück Center.

You might wonder about the town‘s aura… definitely welcoming and chatty! Regarding the University of Edinburgh (particularly the School of Biological Sciences) environment, astonishingly warm and with such insightful research topics, undoubtedly an unmissable science scene. Personally, I selected the blended training format so as to spend the maximum of two months abroad and be able to continue remotely from Berlin, where I am based in.

Research topic and training content

Being in the department of Ecology and Evolution at the Biological School of Sciences, my project focused on bioinformatics, specifically analyzing host-pathogen interactions between nematodes and mice using sRNA-Seq datasets. More precisely, the pipeline involved looking into low- complexity repetitive elements (transposable elements). These are knownly difficult to deal with due to the limitations of the nowadays existing alignment tools, such as STAR or Hisat2. To shortcut this limitation, my task was to combine accesory tools and further programming looking to predict computational times and better performance.

This project investigated the parasitic interspecies interaction of nematode and mice, and deepened into genome evolution of the former in relation to their host. Personally, it was an engaging and well-targeted project, as after this period I intend to continue studying co-evolution of organisms making use of bioinformatics. Fortunately, my supervision was highly effective. Weekly supervision by my mentor and tutor, committed to my skills development, was combined with extra support from colleagues. I am grateful that they put particular effort in ensuring that I approach questions with a critical-thinking perspective.

Moreover, I took part in a Statistics and Data Analysis master’s course, which sharpened my understanding towards a more verifiable science. To sum up, this course involved assistance to lectures and practical seminars, which definitely contributed to a better performance in my project.

Tip: Do not hesitate to ask your supervisor for advice in how to assist courses and the university offer for exchange students; some professors would grant access despite some others not. Another side note: attend the weekly department seminars if possible—guests navigate ecological and/or biomedical concerns, mentioning their work. Surely it will add up to your creative process doing science, moreover, it will help by possibly shedding a new light into your own research.

Application Process and Logistics

The blended Erasmus+ format was slightly more complicated to be granted in comparison to the classic version, likely due to being recently implemented and the fact that it requires applicants to demonstrate previous international experience (e.g., during your master’s). If you are looking to a short-term training (1–2 months), I would recommend the blended format financially. For long-term training, the classic format is still the advisable.
Finding an affordable rent in Edinburgh is challenging nor not impossible. As a suggestion, starting your search a couple of months in advance would save you precious time. Personally, I got a room for £500/month, which is a proper number considering Edinburgh. Second suggestion, Aim for rooms in the souther from the city center because of the proximity with university—Nevertheless, in case you do not manage Edinburgh is fairly walkable and buses are reliable. Moreover, biking is doable in summer but surely not in winter (overcast is the norm in combination with an unexpected rain). Warm-hearted, my flatmate lent me her bike.

University housing is limited thus I recommend searching student co-housing groups for sublets, perfect for short-term periods. Transportation-wise, acquire a monthly bus pass—single tickets are pricey!

How is life in Edinburgh?

Edinburgh feels surprisingly lively for a northern city. Several options are on the menu: the university offers discounted gym access for students (ask about the staff tariff!), and climbers will love the local bouldering halls. In addition, I recommend joining student societies (hiking, cooking, language exchanges—check the university website) or ESN WhatsApp groups to meet people. As a Spanish speaker, I was devoted to the weekly cumbia nights happening in Leith. In general terms, the international community was remarkably large!

Tips for other Interns

Preparation

As mentioned, I recommend looking for a flat at least two months in advance, as it is challenging to find one non-overpriced.

Visa Application

In my case, the on-site time was two months, so I didn´t have to deal with VISA matters (being an European citizen)

Search for an Internship

It is quite straightforward: search a field of interest, identify who is working on the topic of choice and email them. In the email, show interest in learning and attach a CV together with a cover letter introducing your learning trajectory and work experience.

Search for an Apartment

I recommend the website Spareroom

Insurance

DAAD offers a great insurance deal for students that are going to course a traineeship abroad

Telefon-/Internet

Providing you have an european number, roaming works in the UK: then there is no need of getting a SIM card specifically for the traineeship

Bank/Accountopening

In my experience, there is no need to open a new bank account for such short time (less than 6 months)

Going-out Activities

As mentioned in my report, the University has lot of societies, which are a starting point to get to know new people. If you explore venues websites, you revise their programe and write down some nice events. As a first contact I also recommend asking your flatmate for advise on where to go and what to do, they would probably have been living there longer than you!