A consortium of six universities and research institutions from the region – including the University of Warsaw – has won the first edition of NAWA’s competition to create regional support networks for international researchers and PhD candidates. Backed by over PLN 1 million in funding, the new network will help make the region even more welcoming and accessible to global academic talent.
The Mazovian network is one of 11 regional initiatives launched under NAWA’s new programme: NAWA-EURAXESS NETWORKS. Its aim is to build partnerships between academic institutions, universities, and local organizations that support international researchers, PhD students, and their families – helping to create a friendly and welcoming environment for those coming to Poland.
The project „Establishment of a Regional NAWA-EURAXESS Network in the Mazovian Voivodeship” is coordinated by the National Centre for Nuclear Research (NCBJ), with the University of Warsaw as one of the partners. Other members include:
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw (IIMCB),
- Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW),
- Nalecz Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering,
- International Institute of Molecular Mechanisms and Machines (IMol).
The project will run from 2025 to 2028 and is funded through the European Funds for Social Development 2021-2027, with a total grant of over PLN 1.1 million. Planned activities include training in legalisation of stay procedures and intercultural communication, integration and sports events, and study visits. The primary aim is to establish a strong regional support network for international researchers and scientific institutions within the Mazovian Voivodeship.
At the University of Warsaw, the winning project was developed and is being implemented under the coordination of Welcome Point, the office dedicated to supporting international students, PhD students, researchers and staff.
UW officially joined the European EURAXESS network in March 2025. EURAXESS is a European Commission initiative that supports researcher mobility and career development. In Poland, the national EURAXESS network – now made up of 16 universities and research institutions – is coordinated by NAWA. Participation in the Mazovian NAWA–EURAXESS project marks another step in building a strong support system for international researchers and highlights UW’s commitment to internationalising research and education.