Growing Through Research: An International Perspective on Doing a PhD in Germany (2/3)
Changyi Kuang from China is currently conducting a research project at the Institute of Neurosciences and Medicine (INM) - Brain and Behaviour (INM-7) at Forschungszentrum Jülich. She came to Germany through the DAAD Research Grants – Doctoral Programmes, which support international researchers in pursuing advanced academic training.
In this interview she talks about her personal experiences with the scholarship and doing a PhD at Forschungszentrum Jülich.
My research focuses on neuroimaging, a highly interdisciplinary field, which is one of the aspects I enjoy the most. Working alongside colleagues with diverse academic backgrounds and integrating multiple methodologies and data modalities to explore the complexities of the brain makes this field especially engaging and rewarding.
How did you first hear about the DAAD scholarships? What motivated you to apply?
I first learned about the DAAD scholarship when I got in contact with Dr. Veronika Müller, who suggested that I consider applying for it. At that time, there was also a Chinese senior PhD student at the institute who had received DAAD funding the previous year, and I reached out to him to learn some basic information. Later, I found that DAAD had a representative office in my city, which organized public information sessions for students interested in pursuing further studies in Germany. I attended several of these sessions and gained a better understanding of the scholarship regulations for doctoral research projects.
How did you experience the application process?
Overall, my application process went quite smoothly, and I truly appreciated the sincerity and encouragement from my supervisor. Even when I was not fully confident in myself, she believed in me before I did, which I found deeply meaningful. For example, when I applied for the DAAD scholarship, I had doubts about my suitability and, to be honest, did not allow myself to expect too much from the outcome. I reached out to Dr Veronika Müller, who had interviewed me, to share my concerns with her. She reassured me with great confidence and encouraged me to submit the application. This kind of trust and support was present even before I officially became a PhD student, and looking back, I still feel very grateful for it. In the end, I was very fortunate to be awarded the scholarship.
Why did you choose to pursue your PhD at Forschungszentrum Jülich?
The main reason I chose Forschungszentrum Jülich as the place to pursue my PhD is my supervisors. I was particularly motivated by the opportunity to continue working and learning under Dr. Veronika Müller and Prof. Simon B. Eickhoff. I consider this the most important factor in my decision, as I believe their scientific expertise and experience can provide insights that go far beyond research itself. At the same time, I was also very curious about working within the German research system and experiencing a different academic environment. I have always been interested in understanding how research and learning are conducted in different international settings.
How would you describe your experience as a doctoral researcher at Forschungszentrum Jülich so far?
My first year as a PhD student has been both exciting and refreshing, yet also full of challenges. Moving to a completely new country to pursue research has long been a goal I worked toward during my master’s studies. I chose Forschungszentrum Jülich because my previous research background aligns well with the work here, and my supervisors, Dr. Veronika Müller and Prof. Simon B. Eickhoff, are highly renowned in the field of neuroimaging. It still feels a bit surreal that people whose names I previously only saw on academic papers are now my supervisors, guiding me in my daily research work. At the same time, being in such a high-level research environment has raised expectations for both my scientific skills and adaptability.
I find the working environment at the research center to be highly diverse and international. If I had to use a metaphor, I would describe it as a kind of real-world scientific utopia, where people can freely discuss research progress, findings, and challenges within the campus. A key aspect that stands out to me is the strong sense of human-centered support, as well as the very high professional and personal qualities of my colleagues. There are also many engaging events that allow us to learn about different cultures from various countries and regions. In that sense, I see it as a small global village where ideas, experiences, and perspectives from around the world come together.
What was your experience of relocating to and settling in Jülich?
Leaving a familiar culture to live in a country and city that are completely different in terms of environment and lifestyle is certainly not easy. However, in Jülich, I experienced many “firsts” that felt very special to me. For example, I left my first footprints in the snow here, since I come from Canton near Hong Kong, a subtropical region where it never snows in my hometown. I also visited a Christmas market for the first time and lived in a house that is much older than I am, all of which felt quite magical. That said, I am still gradually adjusting to the climate, as the weather is much colder than I had expected.
What surprised you the most about living and working in Germany or specifically in Jülich?
One positive aspect, in my view, is that research here feels more focused and “pure,” in the sense that researchers can concentrate primarily on their own projects. The rigor and feasibility of research designs are carefully developed through thorough and open discussions. At the same time, this environment also sets higher expectations, as it is difficult for any individual to cover every aspect of a project alone. In such cases, guidance from experienced supervisors becomes essential, and the research center brings together many outstanding experts who provide this support. As such, completing a PhD here may take longer, but it reflects the idea that good work takes time, and it also helps to cultivate patience and resilience.
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