Université Paris-Est ● Doctoral Studies Guide 2018-2019

5 Dear PhD student, You are preparing your PhD thesis in one of the doctoral schools at Université Paris-Est (UPE). You are, therefore, working towards the highest qualification available in France or in any other country; it is a byword for advanced skills whichwill prove an invaluable asset in the years to come. This research-based programme is demanding; it provides a first experience of the professional world and will be of great value to you in the future. Université Paris-Est will stand by you all along the way to ensure a successful outcome. Themissions entrusted to the doctoral schools, the courses offered, the access to information resources and, of course, the excellence of the research teams are combined with support from your thesis supervisor. Université Paris-Est’s key focus is on supporting and training its PhD students. As part of this, it organises courses to enable you to enhance your language skills, whether you are a young researcher about to travel abroad or a foreign researcher who has come to study here. It also supports your career development plans by training you to work in higher education or research or by bringing your work to the attention of companies. Specific training, organised with high-profile external partners, is also available to help you define and implement your post-thesis career plan. This guide contains all the information you need to help you choose your courses, learn about the environment in which you will be working and the services available there, and understand the recruitment and registration processes. You will also find all the contact details you need to help you conduct your PhD project and develop your career plan up to the time you defend your thesis, and even beyond, should you decide towork towards the accreditation to supervise research (HDR – Habilitation à diriger des recherches) qualification. You will also learn how you can get actively involved in the activities in your doctoral school and participate in thework of theUniversité Paris-Est management board, academic council and doctoral training board where your elected representatives have three, four and two seats respectively. EDITORIAL Laurent Gautron Dean of the Université Paris-Est Department of Doctoral Studies