From Springfield to the French Alps: A Scientific Journey Abroad for Lindsay Jones

Lindsay Jones, a second-year Ph.D. candidate under the mentorship of Professor Karen Winey at the University of Pennsylvania, recently traded her lab bench in Philadelphia for the snow-dusted peaks of the French Alps. Hailing

from Springfield in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, Lindsay traveled to Grenoble, France, in late February to attend the prestigious Grenoble Energy Conversion & Storage (ENGINE2025) Winter School—an immersive, week-long program hosted by the Grenoble Institute of Technology.

Joining fellow researcher Justin Hughes from the Russell Composto Lab, Lindsay spent five days diving deep into the science of energy storage and conversion, with a focus on batteries and fuel cells. The program, designed to bring together early-career scientists from around the world, offered a dynamic mix of lectures, hands-on learning, and poster sessions. Lindsay presented her ongoing research, gaining feedback from leading European scientists and peers.

Among the highlights of the Winter School were tours of two world-renowned research facilities: the Institut Laue-Langevin (ILL) and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF). These visits offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at cutting-edge neutron and x-ray technology, and reinforced Lindsay’s passion for materials science and international collaboration.

Outside of the classroom, Lindsay and Justin took full advantage of their alpine surroundings. They rode the famous Grenoble “bubbles”—gondolas that climb to the Fort de la Bastille—and soaked in panoramic views of the city framed by the snow-capped Alps. The duo also sampled local cuisine, indulging in a traditional Grenoble fondue dinner that capped off a day of exploration.

But Lindsay’s journey didn’t end in Grenoble. She extended her stay in France to explore Lyon and Paris, blending cultural discovery with personal reflection. In Lyon, a city known for its rich history and gastronomy, she visited the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, calling it “the most beautiful church I have ever seen.” A quiet walk across the Rhône and Saône rivers offered a peaceful contrast to the intensity of the winter school.

Paris, however, was a dream realized. Joined by a friend from undergrad, Lindsay spent four unforgettable days exploring the City of Light—from the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, to the still-recovering Notre-Dame Cathedral. As an avid baker and dessert enthusiast, she reveled in Parisian patisseries, savoring each flaky croissant and delicately layered pastry. A guided tour of the city concluded with a delightful wine and cheese tasting, while a day at the Musée d’Orsay—home to iconic works by Monet and Van Gogh—left a lasting impression.

Reflecting on her trip, Lindsay described it as both academically enriching and personally fulfilling. “It was an amazing trip, and I’m very grateful to have had the opportunity to go,” she shared.

From academic growth to cultural enrichment, Lindsay’s time in France exemplifies the transformative power of international scientific collaboration—and the joy of saying “Oui” to adventure.