Organized by the International Relations Office of Grenoble INP - UGA, Ginsen is a dynamic international summer program designed for upper-level bachelor’s students and early master’s students. Entirely taught in English, the program offers a unique blend of academic coursework, hands-on laboratory experience, and cultural immersion.
Ginsen offers two focused tracks to suit different academic backgrounds:
This year, nine students from around the world — including the UK, USA, China, India, and Australia — took part in the program. Following the online introduction, participants spent three weeks in Grenoble, fully immersed in scientific exploration and intercultural exchange.
Highlights of the program included advanced lab sessions, cleanroom training, site visits to top research facilities such as the ESRF and the Minatech showroom, French language classes provided by the CUEF as well as mountain excursions and intercultural events.
«Having studied French on my own for several years with the goal of pursuing graduate studies in France, I jumped at the chance to join the Ginsen Summer School through a scholarship that supports advanced nanotechnology training, including cleanroom experience. With this full scholarship, I’m excited to explore world-class labs, practice my French, and continue growing as both an engineer and a human being. Ginsen is more than just a summer program; it brings together people at the forefront of nanotechnology to build the bridges needed for scientific and technological progress. Meeting and learning from those who helped advance this technology feels surreal, and there is a sense of legacy — a feeling that we, like many scientists before us, are being handed the keys to the future. I feel incredibly fortunate and grateful to the staff who made this experience so meaningful.”
— Carlos Matos Cancel, United States, Micro & Nanotechnology track.
« I discovered the Ginsen Summer School online and was eager to come to France, having studied French at school but never visited a French-speaking country. As an electrical engineering student fascinated by sustainable energy, I saw the smart energy course as a perfect opportunity to deepen my knowledge while experiencing French culture. In addition, I’ve made new friends and created lasting memories in Grenoble. »
— David Esterhuysen, Australia, Smart Energy track.
Throughout the summer school, the @ginsensummerschool Instagram account offered a behind-the-scenes look into the participants’ daily lives. From lab work to alpine hikes, and from cleanroom sessions to international friendships, the account captured the essence of the Ginsen experience — both academically and socially.
Posts highlighted not only the scientific excellence of the program but also the human connections and vibrant community spirit that define the Ginsen identity.
Follow the program on Instagram: @ginsensummerschool to relive this year’s highlights and stay updated on future editions.
This program is part of the Unite!, European University alliance, which promotes collaborative and innovative education across Europe
