The
Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) are a set of European Union initiatives aimed at supporting research training, career development, and knowledge transfer. Among these, the Innovative Training Networks (ITN) are designed to train Early-Stage Researchers (ESRs) through international and interdisciplinary collaborations. The primary objective of ITNs is to enhance the career prospects of researchers by providing high-quality research training and promoting mobility and skills development.
Catalysis plays a crucial role in addressing global challenges such as
sustainable energy,
environmental protection, and
green chemistry. The complexity and interdisciplinary nature of catalysis research necessitate collaborative approaches. ITNs foster such collaboration by bringing together academic institutions, research centers, and industry partners to provide comprehensive training to researchers. This integrated training helps develop a new generation of scientists equipped to tackle the multifaceted problems in catalysis.
An ITN typically consists of several core components:
Research Projects: Each ESR is assigned a specific research project within a broader thematic framework. These projects aim to address critical challenges in catalysis, such as developing new
catalytic materials, understanding reaction mechanisms, or optimizing industrial processes.
Training Events: ITNs organize training events, including workshops, summer schools, and conferences, to provide additional learning opportunities beyond individual research projects. These events cover a range of topics, from technical skills to soft skills like
communication and
entrepreneurship.
Secondments: ESRs are encouraged to undertake secondments to partner organizations. These placements offer valuable exposure to different research environments and practical experience in applying their skills to real-world problems.
Supervision and Mentoring: Each ESR is supervised by a team of experts from academia and industry. This mentorship ensures that researchers receive the guidance and support needed to achieve their research objectives and career goals.
Participation in an ITN offers numerous benefits to ESRs:
Comprehensive Training: ESRs receive interdisciplinary training that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. This holistic approach equips them with the expertise needed to excel in the field of catalysis.
Networking Opportunities: By working within a collaborative network, ESRs build valuable connections with leading researchers and industry professionals. These networks can open doors to future career opportunities.
International Experience: Mobility is a key aspect of ITNs. ESRs gain international experience by working in different countries and cultural settings, enhancing their adaptability and global perspective.
Career Advancement: The diverse skill set and professional network developed through ITNs significantly enhance the career prospects of ESRs, making them attractive candidates for academic, industrial, and policy-making positions.
Several ITNs have made significant contributions to the field of catalysis. For instance:
ENROL (European Network on the Role of Catalysis in Renewable Energy): Focused on developing catalytic processes for renewable energy conversion, this ITN trained ESRs in areas such as photocatalysis, electrocatalysis, and biomass conversion.
CATCHY (Catalysis for a Circular Economy): This network aimed to advance catalytic processes for recycling and waste valorization, contributing to the development of a circular economy.
SHINE (Sustainable Hydrogen: Innovative Catalytic Production and Storage): Concentrated on hydrogen production and storage technologies, SHINE equipped ESRs with the skills to address the hydrogen economy's technical and economic challenges.
Institutions and researchers interested in participating in ITNs can explore funding opportunities through the
European Commission's Horizon Europe program. Calls for ITN proposals are published periodically, and consortia are encouraged to submit proposals that address specific research and training objectives. Successful proposals receive funding to support the network's activities, including researcher salaries, training events, and secondments.
In conclusion, MSCA Innovative Training Networks provide an invaluable platform for developing the next generation of researchers in catalysis. By fostering international collaboration, interdisciplinary training, and industry partnerships, ITNs equip early-stage researchers with the skills and experience needed to drive innovation and address global challenges in catalysis.
