HUN-REN Hungarian Research Network and the National Academy of Scientist Education take their cooperation to the next level

The renewed partnership agreement was signed in Szeged during the 26th Meeting of Nobel Laureates and Talented Students, held between 29 and 31 March, in the presence of distinguished members of the international scientific community, including Nobel laureates from Hungary and abroad.

The National Academy of Scientist Education is one of Hungary’s leading talent development programmes in the biomedical sciences. From secondary school onwards, it introduces students to the world of research through a structured training and mentoring system, supporting them throughout their journey towards becoming scientists, with research opportunities and integration into the scientific community.

Research institutions within the HUN-REN network play a central role in this effort. With more than 3,400 researchers across 15 institutions, HUN-REN is a cornerstone of Hungary’s research, development and innovation ecosystem, advancing scientific excellence while creating direct pathways for young people to engage with cutting-edge research.

The renewed agreement builds on an already strong foundation. Several HUN-REN research institutions are actively involved in the programme, including the HUN-REN Biological Research Centre in Szeged (HUN-REN BRC), the HUN-REN Institute of Experimental Medicine (HUN-REN IEM), and the HUN-REN Research Centre for Natural Sciences (HUN-REN RCNS), where more than 50 researcher-mentors currently support students pursuing scientific careers.

Through this strategic partnership, HUN-REN and the NTA aim to engage younger generations in science, research and innovation. Both organisations share the view that supporting talented students not only shapes individual career paths but also contributes to strengthening Hungary’s long-term scientific and economic competitiveness.

“Science is not a closed club, but an open space for all those who seek to think and explore. By strengthening the cooperation between the HUN-REN Hungarian Research Network and the National Academy of Scientist Education, we can provide more effective support for mentorship programmes within HUN-REN institutions. Our goal is to ensure that young researchers can get all the help they need to achieve outstanding results from Hungary and make a global impact,” said Roland Jakab, Chief Executive Officer of HUN-REN.

“The National Academy of Scientist Education is committed to enabling talented young Hungarians to develop their potential while pursuing high-level scientific training in Hungary. Alongside university laboratories, the involvement of the internationally recognised research community within the HUN-REN network is essential to achieving these goals,” said Dr András Varró, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the National Biomedical Foundation, which operates the NTA.

Péter Hegyi, Programme Director of the NTA, added: “Together with HUN-REN, we are building Hungary’s future. The research network provides the tools, knowledge and innovations that shape tomorrow, while the National Academy of Scientist Education strengthens the community of science-based professionals and helps develop the next generation of researchers for HUN-REN and Hungarian universities.”

Under the agreement, secondary school and university students, as well as mentors participating in the programme, will receive tailored support. Students will gain broader access to HUN-REN’s research infrastructure, with laboratory placements and professional programmes offering thousands of young people each year insight into the day-to-day work of scientific research. Mentors—including HUN-REN researchers—will benefit from more structured frameworks and enhanced professional support.

The collaboration aims to ensure that talented young people in Hungary have access to the professional and personal support they need to thrive, enabling them to build successful research careers at an international level.

Joint Statement by HUN-REN Communications and NTA Communications