Candidate for Turkey Chapter Chair position: Polat Goktas

Short Manifesto:

As an active member of the Marie Curie Alumni Association, I have had the privilege of contributing to our community through several roles, including serving as Vice-Chair of the MCAA Sustainability Working Group, and supporting editorial activities within the MCAA Newsletter Editorial Board. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to the values of collaboration, inclusiveness, scientific excellence, and sustainable research that define the MCAA.

I am applying to become Chair of the MCAA Turkey Chapter because I believe this Chapter has tremendous untapped potential to grow, connect, and empower its members, both within Türkiye and across the wider MCAA network. My vision is to transform the Turkey Chapter into a highly active, visible, and collaborative hub that bridges disciplines, institutions, and regions.

If elected, I aim to:

- Strengthen inter-chapter and Working Group collaborations.

- Increase engagement and visibility of the Turkey Chapter, through regular events, webinars, networking meetings, mentorship programs, and joint initiatives with universities, research centers, and industry partners within MCAA.

- Promote MSCA opportunities and support early-career researchers, by organizing information sessions, proposal workshops, and peer-support circles to enhance participation in MSCA PF, DN, and Staff Exchange actions.

-Advance sustainability and responsible research practices, drawing on my experience shaping the MSCA Green Charter and in digital sustainability and AI ethics.

-Foster an inclusive and supportive community within Chapter, enabling that members from diverse disciplines and backgrounds, feel represented and engaged.

The MCAA has been instrumental in shaping my journey, and I am committed to giving back through proactive leadership, strategic vision, and community-building. I want to contribute to the continued growth and impact of the Turkey Chapter and help position it as a dynamic and collaborative force within MCAA.