The Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA) has announced a new call for applications aimed specifically at supporting researchers with children in advancing their scientific careers. The initiative seeks to enable those balancing the challenges of family responsibilities and professional demands to continue their research effectively.
Last year, the programme proved successful for two faculty members from our university: dr. Nóra Papp and dr. Ágnes Farkas, associate professors at the University of Pécs, who both secured funding from the MTA. Their experiences highlight the valuable opportunities this programme offers to researchers with young families.
Dr. Nóra Papp: “The support provides not only financial aid but also motivation”
"In November 2024, I applied in Category 1, which supports the preparation of the thesis required to obtain the title of Doctor of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (MTA).
For me, it is a significant recognition and source of motivation that, alongside raising my three-year-old child and returning to work after time spent at home, I have been able to organise 17 years of previous research findings with the aim of reaching a new scientific milestone.
I wholeheartedly recommend this opportunity to colleagues in a similar life stage, balancing parenthood and academia, who wish to summarise their professional achievements. The scholarship and supportive recognition provide invaluable assistance in this endeavour."
- explained Nóra.
Dr. Ágnes Farkas: "Publishing goals made achievable"
“I applied under Category 2, which supports the publication of scientific results. My research focused on the apicultural evaluation of goldenrod and milkweed, during which I committed to publishing in a Q1-ranked international journal. The MTA’s funding allowed me to achieve this goal despite my family and professional commitments, while also providing financial security”
- shared Ágnes.
She also emphasised the exceptional support of the staff at the MTA Research Funding Department, who were always available to help, provided preliminary evaluations of the application, and facilitated opportunities for corrections and resubmissions.
Application Deadline and Details
The MTA’s current call for applications is open until 6 January 2025. Detailed information about the application requirements can be found on the MTA’s grant portal. According to previous participants, the programme is an excellent opportunity for researchers balancing family and professional challenges to receive support in achieving their scientific goals.