Les Association

Les Cartésiens is an association for doctoral students and graduates at Université Paris Cité (formerly Université Paris Descartes) and other institutions within the Université Sorbonne Paris Cité (USPC) network.12 Here are some key points about the association:

Background and Purpose

Les Cartésiens was officially founded in 2011 by Axel Kahn and Michel Vidaud.2 Its main objectives are:

• Creating a multidisciplinary network of doctoral students and graduates
• Facilitating mutual support and professional integration
• Becoming a reference point for young researchers, both scientifically and professionally1

Membership and Scope

The association is open to:

• Doctoral students and graduates from Université Paris Cité
• Researchers from other Paris institutions who wish to join1

While initially focused on Université Paris Descartes, it now encompasses a broader network within USPC and the Paris research community.

Activities and Initiatives

Les Cartésiens organizes various events and programs to support its members:

• SciBeer: A monthly scientific event where young researchers can present their work in a casual environment1
• Networking opportunities to connect doctoral students with graduates working outside academia
• Career development support and job opportunity sharing
• Efforts to promote and enhance the value of doctoral degrees in France1

Leadership

As of 2018, Flavien Quijoux, a physiotherapist and neuroscience doctoral student, became the president of the association.1 The association continues to work towards fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and supporting the career development of young researchers in Paris.