PhD students and early-career researchers from SUNRISE partner universities are invited to participate in the Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) – 1st SUNRISE PhD & Young Researchers Academy: Advancing Research Careers in Health & Digital Health and Digitalisation & Industry 4.0, hosted by European University Cyprus.

The programme will take place from 21 to 25 September 2026 in Nicosia, Cyprus, and will be preceded by a short online preparatory activity. The final programme and practical information will be shared with participants in the coming weeks.

About the Programme

The Academy is designed to support PhD students and young researchers in developing their research, innovation, and career development skills while fostering international collaboration within the SUNRISE Alliance.

The programme focuses on two key SUNRISE research areas:

• Health & Digital Health
• Digitalisation & Industry 4.0

What to Expect

Participants will take part in a comprehensive programme of workshops, training sessions, and networking activities covering topics such as:

• research career development and needs assessment,
• entrepreneurial and transferable skills,
• developing and pitching innovative ideas,
• research proposal writing and funding opportunities,
• scientific article writing,
• data science and digital media literacy,
• poster presentations and research pitches,
• career pathways from PhD studies to academia and industry,
• discussions on academic challenges, including rejection, uncertainty, and well-being in research,
• cultural activities and visits in Cyprus.

Networking Opportunities

A unique feature of this BIP is that it will run alongside the 1st School of Life and Health Sciences SUNRISE Research Week, giving participants the opportunity to meet leading researchers, professors, and research teams from across the SUNRISE Alliance.

The programme will also include poster sessions, “Meet the Experts” activities, research team presentations, and discussions on future research collaborations.

On the final day, participants will have the opportunity to take part in Researchers’ Night, one of Cyprus’ major public science and innovation events.

Who Can Apply?

Each SUNRISE partner university may nominate up to three PhD students or young researchers.

Partners are encouraged to nominate candidates whose research interests are related to Health & Digital Health or Digitalisation & Industry 4.0, and who are motivated to actively contribute to the SUNRISE research community.

Nominations

Nominations must be submitted by 30 July 2026 through the appropriate institutional office (e.g. Erasmus Office, International Office, or another designated unit). Self-nominations will not be accepted.

For further information, please contact your university’s international office or the organisers at European University Cyprus.

We look forward to welcoming the next generation of SUNRISE researchers to Cyprus for a week of learning, collaboration, research exchange, and international networking.