From talent development to spin-off companies: a comprehensive partnership between HUN-REN and Gál Ferenc University

The agreement aims to expand and deepen existing forms of cooperation, develop new areas of partnership, and deliberately strengthen joint projects and synergies. The two institutions will place particular emphasis on making more effective the shared use of their research infrastructures, supporting the development of the next generation of researchers, and enhancing undergraduate and doctoral education programs.

One of the strategic pillars of the cooperation is the launch of a doctoral program in the interdisciplinary field of health sciences. Through this initiative, HUN-REN and GFE aim to develop a competitive educational portfolio and to expand their presence on the international higher education market.

The two institutions will actively support the development of joint inter-institutional research projects, explore opportunities for submitting grant applications together, and jointly encourage undergraduate students to become involved in scientific work and research initiatives. The cooperation will primarily focus on the fields of health sciences and prevention, but the parties may, by mutual agreement, expand it to additional areas in the future.

The cooperation also includes the organization of national and international training programs, scientific and outreach workshops, as well as conferences. In addition, the partners will work to present scientific results widely through joint publications, media appearances, and accessible materials for the broader public. The aim is to strengthen the parties’ international presence, increase joint publication activity, and develop mutually beneficial professional partnerships.

An important element of the agreement is the protection and utilization of intellectual property created through joint research activities, as well as support for spin-off companies, startups, and related industry partnerships built on these outcomes.

“This cooperation provides an opportunity for our researchers to actively participate in joint projects, share their expertise, and contribute to the development of new, innovative educational programs. Together, we can strengthen the quality of research and development and student training, while also supporting the involvement and professional growth of young researchers,” emphasised Balázs Gulyás, President of HUN-REN.

Prof. Dr. László Dux, Rector of Gál Ferenc University, noted in connection with the cooperation: “This new partnership provides an opportunity for our students and researchers to engage directly with cutting-edge research projects and gain experience in interdisciplinary work. The agreement we have signed will help strengthen our institution’s professional collaborations and also support the development of the next generation of researchers.”

The agreement provides an opportunity for the two institutions to jointly shape the scientific and educational programs of the future, while strengthening the professional competencies of both the student and research communities.