My name is Chiara Ceseracciu and I am currently enrolled in the PhD-SDC, Curriculum 5 – Agriculture and Forestry. What initially drew me to the PhD-SDC program was its unwavering commitment to promoting transdisciplinary research and fostering a community of young researchers dedicated to building a sustainable, climate-resilient society. I am carrying out my PhD at the Desertification Research Center of the University of Sassari, under the supervision of Prof. Pier Paolo Roggero. My research is concerned with participatory co-researching approaches to address agro-environmental sustainability challenges, with a focus on climate change adaptation and water resources governance.
In January 2024, I started a 3-month research period abroad at the Department of Development and Sustainability of the Asian Institute of Technology in Thailand. During this period, I had the privilege of collaborating with Associate Professor Thi Phuoc Lai Nguyen, whose expertise lies in governance of agricultural and rural socio-ecological systems, and innovation for sustainable development. Together, we developed a comprehensive assessment framework by considering the interconnected social, economic, and environmental dimensions of governance. Our collaborative efforts culminated in a research paper detailing a comparative groundwater governance assessment across four rural socioecological systems.
This experience significantly contributed to my academic and personal growth. Beyond enhancing the overall quality of my research, the privilege of being mentored by a distinguished female scholar and the exposure to a multicultural working environment were enriching and thought-provoking.
My time in “the land of smiles” also allowed me to explore a new country and get a glimpse of its culture and tradition, from the vibrant streets of the capital to the tranquil rural landscapes and the tropical islands. Undoubtedly, moving to an unknown place presents its own set of challenges and uncertainties. However, it is also a great way to bring research beyond the confines of research laboratories, dismantling academic and cultural barriers, and building a more interconnected future.
If you are a PhD student contemplating a research period abroad, I strongly encourage you to seize the opportunity and let curiosity be your guiding light!