The Young Researchers Programme a good practice since 1985
About this good practice
The Young Researchers Programme supports postgraduate students in conducting research through fixed-term employment contracts. The Agency funds salaries, social contributions, and research costs, with allocations covering up to four full-time equivalent (FTE) years for a PhD.
Running successfully since 1985, over 5,000 young researchers have completed the program. It rejuvenates research groups, fosters new ideas, and supplies highly qualified talent to Slovenia’s economy and other socially relevant sectors.
Candidates must apply through research organizations and enter the funding system within four years of completing a master’s degree. Extensions are granted for parental leave or long-term illness (over six months).
From 2022 the Programme has been integrated into the stable funding of scientific research activities.
Key aspects:
Eligibility: Applicants apply via Slovenian research organizations, enrolling within four years of their master’s completion.
Funding Allocation: In 2023, €35.6 million was dedicated to young researcher training, sourced from stable national research funding.
This program ensures a steady influx of skilled researchers, contributing to innovation, economic growth, and national research excellence.
Resources needed
The program is nationally funded, under the Scientific Research and Innovation Activities Act (ZZrID), ensuring long-term stability and integration into Slovenia’s strategic R&D policy framework.
Evidence of success
The project has already produced tangible outcomes:
• Over 5,000 young researchers have successfully completed the program.
• Contributed to strengthening research institutions and boosting Slovenia’s innovation capacity.
• Enhanced talent retention, reducing brain drain to other countries.
Potential for learning or transfer
This program serves as a best-practice model for countries seeking to support PhD researchers and rejuvenate research institutions. Key success factors include:
• Stable national funding to ensure long-term sustainability.
• Clear eligibility and structured support mechanisms for young researchers.
• Strong integration with national R&D policies and innovation strategies.
Further information
Website
Good practice owner
You can contact the good practice owner below for more detailed information.
Javna agencija za znanstvenoraziskovalno in inovacijsko dejavnost Republike Slovenije (ARIS)
