Research careers: A critical choice for Europe
The CESAER association (Conference of European Schools for Advanced Engineering Education and Research) has released report, “Research Careers: A Critical Choice for Europe.” Combining a data-driven analysis of survey outcomes from 24 universities with expert assessments, including insights from Nadiia Konovalova at Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, the report underscores the need for stable and rewarding research pathways to counter the continent’s brain drain and foster a vibrant academic ecosystem.
In unveiling the findings, CESAER leaders emphasized urgent reforms tailored to Europe’s younger researchers, who often confront unstable job prospects. They called for the proposed ‘Choose Europe‘ initiative, a program inspired by Marie Skłodowska-Curie’s enduring legacy, to launch in 2025. By addressing funding gaps, streamlining career pathways, and modernizing employment frameworks, CESAER advocates for a competitive edge in retaining talent.
According to Orla Feely, President of CESAER and President of University College Dublin, the association is committed to advocating for stable and rewarding research careers, ensuring that Europe remains a magnet for the world’s brightest minds.
Manuel Heitor, CESAER Envoy on Research Careers, Co-Chair of CESAER Task Force Human Resources and Full Professor at Instituto Superior Técnico, stressed that reversing the current European brain drain, primarily to the United States, requires cohesive EU strategies aimed at brain gain and effective brain circulation in Europe by 2035.
In particular, data from Eurostat shows that the number of full-time equivalent (FTE) researchers more than doubled in Poland, Sweden and Greece between 2012 and 2022. However, this increase in numbers of researchers coincides with an explosive brain drain from Europe. Challenges remain, with temporary contracts and funding uncertainties hampering long-term career stability.
Tanya Bondarouk, Co-Chair of CESAER Task Force Human Resources, Dean and Professor of Human Resources Management and Technology at University of Twente, noted that universities must embrace inclusivity and drive innovation to ensure a thriving academic future, contributing to a more dynamic and equitable research landscape in Europe.
For more information, contact CESAER’s Information & Communication Officer, Justine Moynat at justine.moynat@cesaer.org
Source: https://www.cesaer.org/news/research-careers-a-critical-choice-for-europe-1850/
