Achref Methenni
PhD Telecommunications, 2018
Wireless technical support consultant, Rogers Communications
“My research experience at INRS allowed me to fully express my creativity, a strength that helps me move forward in all my projects, bringing innovative ideas and a different perspective to the table.”
The global reach of the Institut national de la recherche scientifique (INRS) is the main reason why Achref Methenni decided to earn a graduate degree abroad.
When he was an engineering student at the Tunis Higher Institute of Communications (SUP’COM), Achref heard good things about INRS from his colleagues and mentors, particularly with regards to teaching and research excellence. The reputation of INRS, as well as the graduate programs offered at the Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications (EMT) research and training centre, matched his ambitions and desire to broaden his knowledge of wireless communications.
In 2011, Achref decided to head to Montreal to pursue his Master’s degree at the EMT, a worthwhile venture that eventually led him to a PhD in Telecommunications, also from the EMT.
“While doing my master’s, I had the opportunity to work with Sofiène Affes, INRS Professor at the EMT research and training centre and scientific leader of the Wireless Laboratory,” says Achref. “My experience with Professor Affes gave me a great deal of motivation to complete my master’s degree and to continue on to do my PhD.”
What does Achref remember most from his time at INRS? “I spent seven years of my life at INRS. I’ve had many experiences but what immediately comes to mind are the diversity of the student community, the healthy and well-balanced academic environment, the support offered by INRS to its students, and the spirit of collaboration and cooperation between students and professors. And I must mention a key lesson that I learned while at INRS: To tackle challenges with a smile, as they are also an opportunity to learn and grow.”
Upon graduating from INRS with his PhD, Achref had the opportunity to apply his scientific knowledge to a career at Rogers Communications, where he has been working as a technical support expert and analyst for three years, specializing in fraud prevention and management, and outage management solutions.
“Overall, my studies at INRS taught me to persevere to reach my goals. But my research experience is really what allowed me to fully express my creativity, a strength that helps me move forward in all my projects, bringing innovative ideas and a different perspective to the table.”
Does he have any advice for INRS students? “Take part in informal activities and initiatives involving colleagues. It will help you develop a strong sense of belonging to the student community and lead a more balanced life. Whether in school, at work or in your personal life, be your best ally so that others around you can become yours.” A piece of advice that seems to have worked wonderfully for him. Thank you, Achref!
[As told to the INRS Foundation in November 2021.]