The NEUTEN project, funded under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions Doctoral Networks, is designed to push the boundaries of research and innovation by training a new generation of doctoral candidates in an interdisciplinary and highly collaborative environment. Bringing together universities, research institutes, and industry partners, NEUTEN provides the perfect platform for young researchers to grow in a network that is both academically rigorous and practically oriented.
Network-Wide Events (NWEs) serve as focal points for the entire consortium, offering training and networking opportunities for doctoral candidates (DCs) and supervisor, possibility to directly exchange knowledge, and create a shared identity across the network. Beyond training, NWEs are about building trust, initiating collaboration, and strengthening the sense of belonging to a scientific community that will sustain itself long after the project has ended.
The first NEUTEN Network-Wide Event (NWE1) took place between September 29 and October 2, hosted by the University of Patras in Greece. It was a hybrid event, with most participants attending in person and others joining online, ensuring that everyone in the consortium could take part. This marked the very first direct encounter between the newly recruited researchers, their supervisors, and representatives of associate partners. The excitement was palpable as participants moved beyond screens and emails to engage in meaningful face-to-face discussions.
The program of the event was carefully designed to balance formal and informal interactions. Doctoral candidates were introduced not only to the overall goals of the project but also to the work packages that will structure their collaborative efforts. Supervisors and researchers sat together in workshops, exploring synergies and laying the groundwork for what promises to be dynamic, cross-institutional teamwork. This early contact was invaluable in setting a common direction and clarifying expectations for the years ahead.
Another highlight of the NWE1 was the opportunity for the DCs to begin forming their own professional community. Meeting their peers in person gave them the chance to share experiences, exchange ideas, and support one another in the challenges and excitement of embarking on a doctoral journey within such a diverse network. The blend of academic discussions and social interaction helped create bonds that will be essential as they advance through the program together.
The success of this first Network-Wide Event owes much to the warm hospitality and seamless organization of the team at the University of Patras. Their efforts ensured that the event ran smoothly, whether participants were on-site or joining remotely. As the NEUTEN project takes its first confident steps, we extend our sincere thanks to our hosts in Patras and wish both the newly selected doctoral candidates and the wider consortium the very best for the journey ahead. With this promising start, the future of NEUTEN looks bright.