Titled LIDER (Leader), the program has already nurtured 546 leaders in various scientific fields. This year, the NCBR has dedicated a total of PLN 80 million (approx. USD 20 million) to this initiative.
Dr. Jacek Orzeł, Director of NCBR, emphasized the importance of cultivating leadership roles in the scientific community, especially in times of leadership crisis. He encouraged young scientists to apply, highlighting the program's focus on those prepared to build a culture of leadership in science. NCBR is one of Poland's main granting bodies in science and innovation.
The LIDER program is open to a wide range of applicants, including doctoral candidates (even those studying externally), and academic teachers without a doctorate or with a doctorate or habilitation, provided that no more than seven years have passed since obtaining their doctoral degree.
A key requirement for projects is collaboration with an institution (such as a university or an institute of the Polish Academy of Sciences or within the Łukasiewicz Research Network), which will employ the project leader for the entire duration of the project, and other team members for the duration of their work on the project.
The program seeks to expand the competencies of young scientists in independently planning research and managing their own research teams. Projects should focus on applied research and development work. Each selected project can receive a grant of up to PLN 1.8 million (approx. USD 450,000).
The application period for the LIDER program begins on February 19 and ends on March 29, 2024. This opportunity is open to Polish citizens, residents, or citizens of the European Union who have been in Poland for more than three months and have registered their stay.
By supporting young researchers and promoting leadership in scientific innovation, the LIDER program aims to address contemporary challenges and contribute to the advancement of science and technology in Poland and beyond.
Information about LIDER 15 is available at https://www.gov.pl/web/ncbr/lider-xv.
(rt)
Source: Nauka w Polsce, gov.pl