Presentation and brief description of background?

I am Clara Jodry, associate professor in geophysics at UFAZ university. I have a master degree from Sorbonne University and a PhD from Nantes University in France in applied geophysics.

My research, based on geophysical methods (i.e., ERT and NMR), aims to contribute to sustainable management of water resources. I focus on the characterization and monitoring of the vadose zone (i.e., from the surface to the water table), and its interface with the saturated zone. In this environment, I study the links between geophysical signals and soil properties using a naturalistic approach.

What was your first impression on Baku city?

My first impression of the city is that it looked like Paris as the building in city centre look like Haussmannian building in Paris. But one main difference is the boulevard near the Caspian Sea where I love to go to walk and have some fresh air. Recently I went up to the eternal flame and the eagle view from this point is superb. I can’t wait to explore more parts of the city!

What was your first impression after the first session with UFAZ students?

Since I arrived this September, my first session and all session after that happened online so I haven’t met any students yet. I am quite sad about that and hope that I will be able to meet everyone soon. Otherwise, they seem interested and implicated as they ask questions about the course. My first session I was very nervous and the lecture didn’t go as well as I hoped so I just hope that I didn’t let them down.

What is your advice to each UFAZ student?

Bachelor and master studies are very hard as it requires a lot of independent and after class work. The conditions today don’t facilitate your job but keep at it as you are building your future. If you have any problem, question or otherwise don’t hesitate to ask.

“No one is without knowledge except he who asks no questions” – African proverb

According to your opinion what are the opportunities that a French education system presents for UFAZ students?

For me, the French education system is based on both academic and self-learning. It allows individuals to develop reflective and critical thinking skills that are important when holding a position of responsibility. It is also based on general scientific knowledge which, added to these soft skills, enables students to be versatile and to solve any kind of problem.