Thanks to funding in the new European Commission initiative “Choose Europe for Science,” the University of Latvia will, over the next five years, attract outstanding early-career researchers and strengthen the long-term capacity of science and innovation in Latvia and Europe through a new international postdoctoral programme.
“An essential challenge for the academic environment of Latvia and Europe at present is the lack of stable and long-term career opportunities. With the project ‘Amber Horizons,’ we will demonstrate that it is also possible in Latvia to build an internationally competitive research environment with clear growth opportunities for young scientists,” emphasizes the Vice-Rector for Science of the University of Latvia, Associate Professor Guntars Kitenbergs.
The UL project “Amber Horizons – Empowering Research Leaders for Europe” is implemented within the framework of the “Choose Europe for Science” initiative and is part of the Horizon Europe programme’s Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions.
The project is based on the development of a long-term researcher career model at the University of Latvia, combining internationally competitive working conditions, structured professional development, and a clear pathway for advancement toward permanent academic and research leadership positions. At the same time, the programme will also serve as a pilot project for a new academic career model in Latvia.
Within the framework of the programme, 11 postdoctoral vacancies will be announced this September to attract at least eight outstanding young researchers – future leaders of science – in an open international competition. The vacancies are intended for the fields of natural and engineering sciences, life and health sciences, environmental and climate research, as well as social sciences and humanities, covering European priorities from quantum technologies and artificial intelligence to advanced manufacturing, personalized medicine, climate resilience, and societal security.
Each young researcher will be provided with support from experienced mentors, an individual professional development plan, and access to international cooperation networks. At the same time, the project programme envisages substantial ambitions in research – internationally significant publications, the establishment of new partnership collaborations, and the development of competitive European research projects.
The project programme is based on a two-stage model – for the first three years, funding will be provided by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) programme, and for the following two years – by the UL, thereby creating a long-term career perspective for researchers. The total programme funding over a five-year period exceeds 4.6 million euros, ensuring each young researcher a competitive salary and additional funding for research and professional development activities, including international cooperation, conferences, and mobility.
About the programme “Choose Europe for Science”
MSCA COFUND “Choose Europe for Science” is a new European Commission initiative within the Horizon Europe programme. Its aim is to strengthen the competitiveness of the European Research Area by attracting and retaining outstanding researchers in Europe. The programme places particular emphasis on sustainable academic careers, international mobility, and research excellence. The UL is one of 16 institutions in Europe that has competitively secured funding in the first call of the initiative.
