In the Service of Science and Innovation

The HUN-REN Hungarian Research Network is one of the most significant institutions in Hungary’s scientific and innovation ecosystem. This nationwide network brings together seven research centres, eight research institutes and 101 supported research groups operating primarily in the life and physical sciences, as well as the central units responsible for strategic governance. It serves Hungarian science from discovery research to innovation. Through its activities, it creates social, economic, scientific and cultural value.

The name HUN-REN—an abbreviation of its English name, Hungarian Research Network—reflects the organisation’s national roots and international connections, Hungary’s centuries-long tradition of scientific excellence and the shared intellectual endeavour of researchers from different disciplines.

HUN-REN’s mission is to contribute, through the scientific research it conducts, to generating new scientific and innovation results while preserving and nurturing Hungary’s national culture and enriching the universal body of science and culture, thereby helping address the social, economic and environmental challenges facing Hungary’s economy and the nation as a whole. In line with Hungary’s innovation strategy and the John von Neumann Programme, HUN-REN’s priority research areas are healthy living, the digital transition, energy and environmental security and security and defence.

HUN-REN’s strategic goal is to become a leading innovation hub for addressing societal and economic questions and to support the uptake of knowledge generated by research across the economy and society. Alongside carrying out its public functions, HUN-REN also pursues business activities and maintains active partnerships with industry to ensure that results are integrated into value chains.

Its independent operation is guaranteed by a specific Act, which provides for HUN-REN’s special legal status and its organisational and asset independence.

HUN-REN’s work rests on four main pillars:

  • Research excellence and strengthening Hungary’s scientific performance internationally
  • International cooperation with research, education and industry partners, and connecting Hungarian scientific results to the global scientific community
  • Strengthening innovation performance
  • Encouraging the next generation of researchers by engaging early-career researchers as well as university and secondary school students