Overall project aim:

To develop a comprehensive, inclusive, and multi-level ecosystem that supports the career development and career trajectory building of early-career researchers in Ukraine at the individual, institutional, and national levels under wartime and post-war conditions. The project aims to help build and preserve the country’s intellectual potential and to strengthen the role of early-career researchers in national recovery through science, education, and innovation.

The study combines interdisciplinary and empirical approaches, including analysis of the regulatory framework and institutional practices, interviews and online surveys, focus groups, and a comparative review of European support models. Particular attention is paid to gender sensitivity, academic well-being, and the role of mentoring.

Expected outcomes of the project:

🔹 A model of an inclusive multi-level ecosystem for supporting the career development of early-career researchers (individual–institutional–national levels).
🔹 A roadmap for implementing the ecosystem and practical guidelines for the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, higher education institutions, research organisations, and international partners.
🔹 An empirical and analytical evidence base on needs, barriers, drivers of career uncertainty, academic well-being/mental exhaustion, and the role of mentoring; including a comparative analysis of European support models.
🔹 Research outputs and dissemination: publications in Scopus/WoS-indexed outlets, a monograph and analytical materials, and science communication pieces for wider audiences.