A compliment for Mischke for initiating Young Academy of Europe
Nikhef researcher André Mischke (working at the University of Utrecht) initiated the set-up of the Young Academy of Europe (YAE) in 2011. The academy is a platform for European young scientists with an ERC Starting Grant. The first meeting will be held in Brussels in December. About 100 young European scientists will gather there. André recently received a compliment from the Dean for this initiative.
Mischke, chairman of the YAE: 'The YAE has been set up to allow scientists of the same level to exchange innovative ideas and to support each other in their work, and the responsibilities that are involved in receiving an ERC grant. Therefore, we expressly invite scientists who are willing to spend time and energy on this network.' The scientific board of the ERC and the Academia Europaea support this European initiative. In 2011, Mischke organised a kick-off meeting in Paris with 11 European scientists with an ERC Starting Grant. The first annual meeting, which will be held in Brussels, is expected to attract 100 members.
Young scientists
Mischke: 'The scientists who join YAE all obtained their doctorate degrees in the past fifteen years. They are scientists who possess the qualities of a group leader and who have a wide interest in science and scientific policy on a European level. This enables us to do some networking and monitor the interests of scientific research in Europe.'
Petition
One of the first YAE campaigns was to set up a petition within the framework of the cut-backs in the European grant programme Horizon 2020. Mischke: 'YAE thinks it is essential that the amount of 79.3 billion Euros for Horizon 2020 is secured. Science and innovation form an important basis for a sustainable growth and development in Europe. An investment in science is the key for Europe to struggle its way out of the economic crisis and the ensuing social challenges.'
Compliment from the Dean
André Mischke received a compliment from the Dean for his work for the Young Academy of Europe. The Dean gives compliments to employees who do work that goes beyond their every-day duties, and which contributes to the prestige of the faculty.