The Ministry for Equality, Research and Innovation, in consultation with the University of Malta and the Chamber of Commerce, Enterprise and Industry, is launching a funding scheme which will lead to a number of students at the University of Malta to be able to carry out post-doctoral research in collaboration with economic operators.
In his speech, Minister for Equality, Research and Innovation Owen Bonnici stated that, “Research and innovation are crucial for the future of our country, and such schemes continue to show that the government is committed to making these sectors a priority and to further increase employment, education and at the same time expose the enormous talent we have in our country, while helping to discover new niches for innovation.”
“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.
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.”
The first call for applications will open on the 1st of April 2022 and will close on the 30th of 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 on https://mfer.gov.mt/en/Pages/Post-Doctoral-Fellowship-Scheme.aspx.
