Newsletter
Eliška Koňaříková
The 2025 MCAA Annual Conference in Kraków left us energised, inspired, and reminded of the strength that comes from community. This year’s gathering wasn’t just a series of panels and presentations – it was a celebration of shared purpose. We saw researchers, innovators, and alumni come together across disciplines, borders, and sectors to imagine a better, more inclusive future for science. The positive momentum was palpable, and the warmth of connection undeniable.
If I should mention anything from the MCAA Board’s latest work, then let me highlight the MSCA Supervision Guidelines and the launch of the MCAA Academy’s ‘Careers in the Public Sector’ mentoring programme. These initiatives exemplify how strategy becomes practice within our network – how ideas, once debated, are now actively shaping support at every career stage.
I would like to personally congratulate all the MCAA Awardees. Their words reaffirmed that excellence isn’t only about publications or patents but also about impact, purpose, and people. The values represented here show how expansive – and inclusive – our definition of excellence has become. Their stories aren’t just success stories; they are invitations to dream bigger.
Finally, our in-depth conference coverage ranges from sessions on citizen science, mentoring, and Horizon Europe policy to the vibrant discussions on science communication, research ethics, and brain circulation. These articles do more than recap events – they capture a growing shift in our culture: toward openness, equity, and sustainability. If Kraków reminded us of anything, it’s that the MCAA is not just reacting to change – we are actively creating it.
Let’s continue showing up for each other, mentoring the next generation, advocating for better systems, and opening the doors of science even wider. The Annual Conference reminded us that we are not alone in our challenges or ambitions. We are part of a living, thriving community, driven by the belief that together, we can shape a brighter future.
See you again next year!
Enjoy the read!
Eliška Koňaříková
Bluesky
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MCAA Newsletter Editor-in-Chief
newsletter.editor@mariecuriealumni.eu