On May 16-17, 2023, the Science Europe General Assembly was held in Brussels.
We remind you that Science Europe is a recognized organization that brings together the main government agencies that fund or carry out top-level research in Europe. Science Europe has been supporting Ukraine in its fight against russian aggression since the beginning of the full-scale invasion. The Foundation became a full member of the Association last year.
In addition to suspending all cooperation with russian institutions, Science Europe members have already launched a large number of different initiatives to support researchers and the research ecosystem in Ukraine. These range from hosting researchers and providing shelter for internally displaced persons to using existing and new funding mechanisms, access to research infrastructure, and developing joint calls for proposals with Ukrainian institutions. Information on activities and initiatives to support Ukraine is constantly updated on the official Science Europe website.
The National Research Foundation was represented at the event by the Executive Director Olga Polotska. She spoke at a session dedicated to the R&I sector in Ukraine. The Executive Director of the NRFU spoke about the activities of the Foundation and Ukrainian research in general on the way to the ERA, explained the context and evolution of the Ukrainian R&I system during the war, as well as what would be the types of actions that would best contribute to the development and recovery of the Ukrainian R&I system in the war and post-war periods.
Science Europe supports the NRFU as a new Member of the Association and engages the Foundation in the initiatives and opportunities that membership entails, including close cooperation with other Members of the Association. During the event representatives of leading European organizations and institutions that are Members of Science Europe also discussed ways and initiatives to support Ukraine.
In addition, the Foundation is currently actively working with several Science Europe member organizations to develop new programs to support Ukrainian researchers. We look forward to new joint initiatives and thank our European colleagues for their powerful support!
