Hi there! My name is Zain Ul Abideen, and I am from Pakistan. I grew up in the agricultural land of Punjab, which is located in the heart of Pakistan. I was fortunate to complete my bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Management and Technology in Lahore, where I was awarded a rector's medal. After that, I was admitted to Grenoble INP- ESISAR in France for my master's studies, which began a new chapter in my life.
My long-term goal has always been to pursue a research career, and I embarked on my research journey in the field of robotics. The Embedded Systems program at Grenoble INP - ESISAR immediately caught my attention as an ideal stepping stone for my future research endeavors. I was particularly intrigued by the program's focus on cultivating reliable and trustworthy embedded systems, a critical aspect of today's technology landscape. Moreover, I chose Grenoble INP - ESISAR and the IMESS Master program* because of the institution's strong academic reputation, particularly in engineering. Esisar's location provides access to valuable resources, and its industry connections offer networking prospects for my future career.
A wonderful place with a collaborative spirit for study
I really enjoyed my time in Valence. It was a fantastic experience that offered captivating beauty and easy access to basic necessities, making it a wonderful place for a student. The lectures, guidance, and long hours in labs shaped my academic life.
Outside of my studies, my time in Valence was truly memorable. The town's natural beauty, surrounded by majestic mountains and graced by the tranquil flow of the river, offered countless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. What made my experience truly remarkable were the friendships forged during my stay. The camaraderie with my new friends, the guidance and mentorship of my teachers, and the collaborative spirit of our study and research endeavors left an indelible mark on my heart.
One of my most cherished memories involves my trips to Barcelona and Geneva with my friends. We decided to explore these beautiful cities by walking everywhere, taking in all the sights and sounds they had to offer on foot. Additionally, our night-time walks along the Rhône River, where we delved into fascinating conversations about science, are moments I shall always treasure.
Overall, the program covers a wide range of topics related to reliable embedded systems. I was particularly interested in the hardware security and hands-on experience with devices. I wholeheartedly recommend it to future students. I have had a wonderful experience, and I've already recommended it to many juniors and friends in Pakistan.
For newcomers, my advice would be to embrace every opportunity that comes your way. Valence offers a wealth of experiences, both academically and culturally. Dive into your studies, explore the beautiful surroundings, and don't hesitate to make new friends. The camaraderie and support of fellow students can make a significant difference in your experience. Also, take advantage of the chance to engage in discussions and learn from your teachers, as they come from diverse backgrounds and bring unique perspectives.
This program provides a challenging academic coursework, an access to state-of-the-art research opportunities, and a curriculum tailored to students' career goals.
However, one of its standout features is the hands-on laboratory experience facilitated by industry-experienced teachers. This unique blend of theory and practical knowledge equips students with skills relevant to industry and research, making it a comprehensive and career-focused program.
I am currently working towards my Ph.D. in the field of hardware security and secure ASIC design at Tallinn University of Technology (TalTech). My interest in this field prompted me to pursue research opportunities after completing my Master's degree, and I found a good fit with my current mentor at TalTech.