Frequently Asked Questions
Wondering about our services, our rates or how a study works? Answers to the questions we are asked most often are gathered here.
Who are we?
What is PCA and who are you?
PCA is the Junior Enterprise of ESPCI Paris – PSL, founded 42 years ago. We offer companies and organizations access to the expertise of the school’s engineering students to conduct scientific and technical studies on topics taught at ESPCI (physics, chemistry, biology, and their applications).
Who conducts the studies?
Studies are carried out by ESPCI engineering students, supervised and monitored by PCA managers. You benefit from complete multidisciplinary scientific expertise, supported by the school’s 10 laboratories and over 500 teaching researchers.
Do you have experience in my sector?
Yes. PCA has completed over 200 studies for leading clients including: CEA, EDF, Saint-Gobain, Safran, Air Liquide, Veolia, L’Oréal, Bouygues, La Poste, and many others. Our client satisfaction rate exceeds 93%.
Services and how a study works
What are your service areas?
We work on:
- Carbon Footprinting
- Life Sciences Studies
- Computer Modeling
- Bibliographic Research
- Product Synthesis and Development
- Design, Prototyping, and Characterization of Physical Systems
- Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)
- Product Analysis and Characterization
- Scientific Translation, Technical Writing, and Monitoring
Even if you’re unsure which service type matches your project, we’d be delighted to discuss it with you!
What is your process for a study?
We follow a 5-step process:
- In-depth analysis of your needs
- Scope of work and commercial proposal
- Recruitment of a dedicated consultant
- Regular follow-up by a PCA member
- Delivery of the deliverable, with a guarantee phase and on-time delivery assured
How much does a study cost and how long does it take?
Cost and timeline depend entirely on your project. We conduct a free assessment of your needs and provide you with personalized pricing and a quote before any commitment. We recommend that you contact us to discuss your specific case.
Budget, guarantees and contact
What is the Research Tax Credit (CIR) and why should I care?
The CIR is a French tax incentive allowing companies to deduct part of their research and development expenses from their taxes. PCA has been CIR-approved since 2021, and its approval is valid for 2026, which means your studies with us can be declared as eligible R&D expenses. It’s a concrete financial advantage.
Do you have special accreditation for carbon footprinting?
Yes, PCA holds the ABC License (Association for Low-Carbon Transition), which authorizes us to conduct carbon footprints according to ADEME methodology. Our consultants are trained by IFP during the study. You can find details in our dedicated brochures (in French).
How do you handle confidentiality of my data?
All projects are confidential. We discuss confidentiality and intellectual property terms during the scope of work phase. You retain complete control over your results.
How do I request a study or quote?
It’s simple. You can describe your needs via our quote form or email contact@pca.je. A project manager reviews your request and typically responds within 48 hours with an initial analysis and scope of work.
Or contact us directly at:
- Email: contact@pca.je
- Phone: +33 (0)1 40 79 51 94
- Web: www.pca.je
- Address: 10 rue Vauquelin, 75005 Paris
Ready to bring your scientific project to life?
Trust our ESPCI engineering students to support you.