The University of Malta, in consultation with the Ministry for Equality, Research and Innovation, and the Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, is benefitting from a funding scheme which will lead to a number of University students to be able to carry out post-doctoral research in collaboration with economic operators.
Pro-Rector for Research and Innovation Prof. Simon Fabri said that, “This scheme is a new opportunity for doctoral graduates to participate with the University of Malta and economic operators in advanced research projects that are applicable to the needs of industry and society."
President of the Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry Marisa Xuereb stressed that, “This is another step towards what we think is the most important step in this process; the moment when we bring together academics who want to apply their skills in industry-relevant research and those companies that believe that research can really help them develop new products and services or improve what they already do. It is in this moment of open dialogue for effective cooperation that we can say that we have really taken the path to change in the way we look at research."
Dr Ing Anton Bartolo, Director at the Knowledge and transfer office at UM said that “A primary aim of the Post-Doctoral Fellowship Scheme is to enable high level research collaboration between the UM and industry. It is a great opportunity for PhD graduates, including those who may be looking for opportunities to return to Malta after finishing their studies abroad, to continue applying their R&D skills at the post-doctoral level. The Scheme will also increase the number of post-docs at the UM, which is currently low compared to other universities in the EU.â€
The Minister for Equality, Research and Innovation Owen Bonnici stated that, “Through this scheme, the Ministry for Equality, Research and Innovation is filling the gap in this sector and will therefore achieve the goal of promoting and encouraging research and innovation through projects intended to provide a positive and constructive impact to our country's academia and economy. At the same time, this scheme will also give the opportunity to Maltese students to continue studying in our country even at the post-doctoral level, with the aim of raising more knowledge in various fields of research in our country," Minister Bonnici continued.
This scheme came into force after an agreement was reached between the three entities to strengthen research and innovation in our country and the collaboration between academia and economic operators in this area.
The first call for applications will open on 1 April 2022 and will close on 30 April 2022, with the aim of having more calls from time to time. Applications will be evaluated by a panel of experts represented by the respective bodies. The guidelines and regulations of this scheme can be found .
