About you?
Tell us about yourself
My name is Claudiane FLORA, I'm 30 and I have a PhD in Chemistry of Natural Substances. Since September 2021, I've been working as a research and development project manager for Strat'EMH Outre-mer, a consultancy firm specialising in life sciences (agriculture, agri-food, etc.). We help companies to structure themselves and become more firmly rooted in the economic fabric of French Guiana.
Your business
Can you tell us about your job? What does it involve?
In French Guyana, many people have good ideas, but it's common to find that they don't always know how to go about turning their projects into reality. As part of my job, I work as a consultant, helping new entrepreneurs to set up their businesses, advising existing businesses and helping them to develop a segment of their target market. I carry out a wide range of tasks within the firm, depending on the client we're working with. For example, we can set up events to promote a product, or raise awareness of a given theme among a lay audience.
What do you like about your job?
In this job, I like the challenging aspect. On a day-to-day basis, we provide our customers with the tools and strategies they need to make the best possible progress. In other words, our role is to help project owners go as far as possible. I also appreciate the human aspect of the exchanges and discussions with the teams that feed into the strategies. We listen carefully to our customers and do our best to meet their needs.
Your training courses
Tell us about your training. Which course did you follow?
I joined the UG after an initial university training course in Lyon, and then decided to return to French Guiana to continue my studies in the third year of the SVT Bio 3 (Biology, Biochemistry and Biotechnology) degree course, followed by a master's degree in biology and plant development, which I completed in Strasbourg. After my Master 2 internship, I decided to stay in French Guiana, where I completed my PhD in Natural Substances Chemistry with a thesis entitled "Origine et prédiction de la variabilité de la durabilité naturelle chez Dicorynia guianensis Amsh" (Origin and prediction of the variability of natural durability in Dicorynia guianensis Amsh).
What have you learnt from your training courses?
Generally speaking, these courses gave me a grounding in physics and chemistry, wood science, microbiology and plant biology. They have enriched my range of skills. My course has given me a better methodological and organisational approach, which is particularly useful for project management. I've also been able to travel and talk to other researchers, which has developed my adaptability, interpersonal skills and ability to listen. It was a fantastic opportunity to talk to 'big shots' in my field, to attend conferences, and to get out of my comfort zone by taking part in the 'my thesis in 180 seconds' competition, for example, or by presenting my research in front of an audience, sometimes even in English. I've gained in confidence, maturity and open-mindedness.
