INTERNSHIP REPORT: MADELEINE DOWEK AT THE ASIAN CENTRE FOR WATER RESEARCH (CARE) IN VIETNAM

Introduction

The internship of Madeleine Dowek, a Hydraulics student at Ense3, Grenoble INP, at the Asian Centre for Water Research (CARE) in Vietnam was a fruitful and collaborative experience. Lasting for one month, from June 13, 2023, to July 14, 2023, Madeleine worked under the supervision of Dr. Ho Tuan Duc and Dr. Kieu Le Thuy Chung, contributing to various water research projects.

Tasks Accomplished

Water Quality Monitoring: Madeleine actively participated in sampling missions at the Sai Gon and Dong Nai rivers to monitor water quality. This hands-on experience allowed her to apply her theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios and gain valuable insights into the environmental challenges facing these critical water bodies.

Plastic Concentration Monitoring: Another crucial aspect of her internship involved sampling at Can Gio beach to monitor plastic concentration in the marine environment. This task highlighted the pressing issue of plastic pollution and its detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems.

Water Supply Network Modeling: Madeleine also worked on modeling the water supply network using the EPANET software. This software is widely recognized for its utility in simulating water distribution systems. Her contribution in this area demonstrates her ability to engage with advanced tools and methodologies.

Opportunities and Learning

Madeleine's internship at CARE provided her with unique opportunities for growth and learning:

Modern Equipment Utilization: She had the privilege of using state-of-the-art equipment for water analysis. This experience was instrumental in enhancing her technical skills and exposing her to cutting-edge technologies in the field of water research.

Seminars on Wastewater Treatment: Madeleine actively participated in seminars on wastewater treatment organized by CARE. These events allowed her to interact with experts in the field, learn about the latest advancements in wastewater treatment, and gain a broader perspective on water management issues.

Collaboration and International Exchange

This internship marked a significant milestone for CARE as it was the first time the center hosted a foreign student for a one-month period. Despite the relatively short duration, Madeleine's contributions were commendable, and her presence at CARE strengthened the collaboration between two prestigious institutions: Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Grenoble INP.

The collaboration between these two universities in exchanging students and lecturers for joint scientific projects is highly promising. It not only fosters academic and cultural exchanges but also promotes collaborative research in the field of water resources and hydraulics. Madeleine's successful internship serves as a testament to the potential of such partnerships.

Conclusion

Madeleine Dowek's internship at the Asian Centre for Water Research (CARE) in Vietnam was a valuable experience for both her and the institution. During her one-month tenure, she actively contributed to various water research projects, gaining hands-on experience in water quality monitoring, plastic concentration assessment, and water supply network modeling.

Furthermore, the internship provided her with opportunities to utilize modern water analysis equipment, attend seminars on wastewater treatment, and engage with experts in the field. Importantly, her presence at CARE strengthened the collaboration between Ho Chi Minh City University of Technology and Grenoble INP, enhancing the potential for future joint scientific endeavors.

Madeleine's achievements underscore the significance of international partnerships in academia and the positive impact such collaborations can have on students, institutions, and the broader scientific community. Her internship at CARE not only enriched her academic journey but also contributed to the ongoing efforts to address pressing water management challenges in Vietnam and beyond.