News

Hosted by the Association of Hungarian PhD and DLA Candidates (DOSZ), the Eurodoc Annual Conference 2026 was held on 24–25 June 2026 at Semmelweis University in Budapest. This year’s conference explored how early-career researchers can become agents of change in strengthening the ties between science and society, as well as how they can contribute to the development of European research communities and academic freedom.

The event was opened by Nicola Dengo, President of Eurodoc, who emphasized the importance of the role of early-career researchers in the European research ecosystem. Participants were then welcomed by Péter Hermann, Vice Rector for Education at Semmelweis University; Péter Vámosi, President of DOSZ; Gábor Takács, representing the Hungarian Doctoral Council; and Enikő Kubinyi, Deputy State Secretary for Science and Technology and HYA alumna.

The representation of the Hungarian Young Academy was ensured by Karolina Eszter Kovács, HYA board member who was invited to take part in the roundtable discussion titled “Mobility & Careers: Perspectives from Europe to Hungary”. During the discussion, Gillian Golden (OECD) presented the key findings of REICO, the joint researcher career monitoring programme of the OECD and the European Union, while Karolina Eszter Kovács shared the results of a nationwide survey conducted among researchers at the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The presentation addressed the patterns of international mobility among Hungarian researchers, the factors influencing mobility, and the role that gaining international experience plays in shaping research careers. Participants in the panel discussion also exchanged views on the uncertainty of research career paths, the effects of mobility on mental health, and whether mobility in Europe is viewed more as an opportunity or an expectation. The discussion was moderated by Attila Csomos (DOSZ), with Karl Kilbo Edlund (Eurodoc) also participating.

In addition to the theoretical presentations and panel discussions, Eurodoc member organizations shared best practices and discussed current challenges faced by early-career researchers. The event provided an excellent opportunity for international networking and an exchange of experiences.