Letter from the Chair - MCAA Magazine March 2024

It is with great pleasure and a heart full of gratitude that I welcome you to the pages of IRRADIUM, our annual magazine. While I write this message, I am filled with immense pride for all that we, as the Marie Curie Alumni Association, have achieved together over the past years.

As I approach the end of my tenure as your Chair, I reflect upon the incredible journey we have undertaken, the milestones we have reached, and the collective spirit that binds us as a community. It is my honour to share with you some of the highlights that define this remarkable year.

One of our significant accomplishments is the transformation of our financial model with the support of a Coordination and Support Action (CSA) grant from the European Commission. This pivotal change has not only fortified our financial sustainability but has also provided us with a robust framework to continue supporting our members and anchoring the MCAA as a key player in the research community.

A major stride in our operational capacity has been the successful formation of a full-fledged operational team. Their dedication and expertise have played a pivotal role in steering the Association towards greater efficiency and impact. The synergy within the operational and volunteering teams has been a driving force behind the realisation of our shared vision.

Volunteers are the lifeblood of our Association, and I am delighted to report the successful development of numerous activities and projects initiated and executed by our enthusiastic volunteers. Their passion and commitment have not only expanded the scope of our activities but have also created a vibrant ecosystem within our community.

One of the cornerstones of our Association is the commitment to fostering meaningful connections and collaboration among our members. The networking pillar has flourished this year, providing numerous opportunities for researchers to engage, share insights, and forge professional relationships. Through a series of virtual and inperson events, we have facilitated a vibrant exchange of ideas, creating a dynamic ecosystem where knowledge knows no boundaries. The strength of our network lies not only in its diversity but also in the genuine connections that have been cultivated, enriching the experiences of our members.

Central to our mission is the unwavering dedication to supporting the career development of our members.

Central to our mission is the unwavering dedication to supporting the career development of our members. This year, we have witnessed significant strides in this pillar with targeted initiatives, mentorship programs, and resources designed to empower researchers at every stage of their careers. We have been steadfast in our commitment to nurturing the professional growth of our members. The success stories emerging from our community stand as a testament to the effectiveness of our career development support, demonstrating that together, we can overcome challenges and pave the way for enduring success.

Advocacy is the voice that resonates beyond our community, championing the cause of researchers and aiming to foster an environment where we are happy to work and conducive to groundbreaking discoveries. This year, we have actively engaged in advocacy efforts, amplifying the voices of our members on crucial issues affecting the research community. Through partnerships, collaborations, and targeted campaigns, we have striven to raise awareness about the importance of research, advocate for fair funding, and promote policies that facilitate the pursuit of knowledge. Our collective advocacy has not only elevated the profile of our Association but has also contributed to shaping policies that positively impact researchers across the European landscape.

As I bid farewell to my role as Chair, I want to express my deepest gratitude to each member who has been part of this transformative journey. Together, we have demonstrated the immense potential that lies within our community, and I have every confidence that the Marie Curie Alumni Association will continue to thrive under new leadership.

Moreover, this year marks the 10th anniversary of the foundation of our Association. It is a crucial milestone that makes me proud of our community and thankful for all the members who have contributed to the growth of the MCAA.

In closing, let us celebrate our achievements, acknowledge the strength of our bonds, and look forward to a future filled with even greater possibilities. The Annual IRRADIUM Magazine is a testament to our shared success, and I encourage you to delve into its pages and relish the stories of inspiration, collaboration, and impact.

Thank you for your unwavering support and dedication. It has been an honour and privilege to serve as your Chair.

With warm regards.

Fernanda Bajanca
MCAA Chair
chair@mariecuriealumni.eu
Twitter @fbajanca
ORCID 0000-0001-8846-6611