To broaden and develop the professional skills of our team members and widen their scientific network and cultural experiences, the BRT encourages its students to embark on internships. These internships are connected to their scientific journey and enable them to have hands-on, practical and in-field experiences, which are critical to their future careers. The internships help to hone their communication, time management, teamwork, problem-solving, and leadership skills, all of which are highly valued assets in young scientists. 

 

Our PhD student, Manvendra Kumar, shares insights from his internship experience at Himachal Pradesh University in India . 

 

Enjoy reading as he takes you on his internship journey! 

 

 

 

Internships play a crucial role in expanding our knowledge, sharpening practical skills, and building meaningful connections within the scientific community. The BioResources and Technology Division (BRT) has always encouraged us to take up internships, knowing these experiences complement our academic research and provide invaluable real-world exposure. Internships are not only professionally rewarding but also personally enriching, enhancing skills like problem-solving, teamwork, communication, and leadership, all vital for our future. 

 

My name is Manvendra Kumar! I am a member of the BRT and am currently pursuing my PhD in the Faculty of Tropical Sciences (FTZ), Department of Sustainable Technologies, at the Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague (CZU). My PhD research specifically focuses on intensifying anaerobic digestion processes by combining different waste streams to optimize biogas production and nutrient recovery. To deepen my practical knowledge and gain hands-on experience aligned closely with my research, I recently completed a one-month internship under the guidance of Associate Professor Pawan Kumar Attari at the Department of Environmental Sciences, Himachal Pradesh University (HPU) in Shimla, India. 

 

Connecting Theory to Real-Life Applications 

 

My internship at Himachal Pradesh University provided a unique opportunity to practically explore technologies relevant to my PhD topic, including wastewater treatment, anaerobic digestion, and biofuel production. The structured program significantly enhanced my understanding of integrated waste-to-energy processes and sustainable environmental solutions. 

 

One of the most insightful experiences during my internship was visiting the Dinapur Sewage Treatment Plant in Varanasi. Here, I closely observed advanced biological nutrient removal techniques, efficient sludge management practices, and intensified anaerobic digestion processes. Interacting directly with plant operators and engineers enabled me to understand the operational challenges, strategies for enhancing reactor efficiency, and innovative nutrient recovery methods, directly correlating to my research goals. 

 

Deepening My Knowledge in Bioenergy Production 

 

Another enriching aspect of my internship was the visit to the biogas-cum-bio CNG plant in Paniyara, Uttar Pradesh. This facility's integrated approach to biofuel and bio CNG production from various biomass feedstocks resonated deeply with my research on combined waste utilization. Observing the full bioenergy production process—from feedstock pretreatment and biogas refining to bio CNG production—provided me with valuable insights into optimizing energy recovery and assessing the environmental sustainability of these integrated systems. 

 

Lab Collaborations and Future Opportunities 

 

Working in the Solid Waste Treatment Lab at HPU further expanded my practical capabilities. Collaborating closely with experienced researchers, I gained expertise in laboratory techniques crucial for analyzing combined solid wastes and evaluating resource recovery potential. Active participation in discussions and experiments sparked ideas for future collaborative research projects, reinforcing the importance of professional networking and teamwork. 

 

Experiencing Culture and Personal Growth 

 

Beyond professional development, my internship experience in Shimla was culturally enriching. Nestled in the scenic Himalayan foothills, Shimla provided an inspiring backdrop. During my weekends, I explored local traditions, sampled delicious regional cuisine, and visited picturesque landscapes. These experiences enriched my cultural awareness and greatly enhanced my adaptability and communication skills in diverse environments. 

 

Embracing Every Opportunity 

 

Reflecting on how I secured this internship, I realize the importance of proactively pursuing opportunities. Learning about this internship through my professor's recommendation and deciding to apply, even amidst uncertainty, taught me the crucial lesson of taking chances. Every opportunity, regardless of outcome, contributes significantly to our personal and professional growth. 

 

This internship significantly advanced my expertise in intensifying anaerobic digestion of combined wastes and expanded my understanding of sustainable bioresources and environmental technologies. The insights gained from highly experienced researchers and extensive hands-on experience have substantially enriched my academic journey. Moreover, the professional connections established during this internship have laid a strong foundation for future collaborations. 

 

Overall, my internship at Himachal Pradesh University was an exceptional journey that combined professional growth with cultural enrichment. I strongly encourage fellow researchers and students to pursue similar opportunities, as these internships significantly enhance both scientific knowledge and practical skills, fostering personal and professional development toward a sustainable and environmentally responsible future. 

 

 

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