NEWS
RUN Discovery Student Academy:
Your first step into a real Research Career
20 November 2025
What if one programme could show you what research really feels like – the people, the challenges, the inspiration, the international community behind every idea?
For many students across RUN-EU, the RUN-DIS Student Academy has become exactly that turning point.
Designed for advanced Bachelor students, Master students, early-stage PhD researchers and young research staff, the Academy offers a nine-month mentoring and training journey that helps you explore whether research is your future – and gives you the tools and confidence to thrive.
Participants complete around 150 hours of online activities and one intensive in-person week. Together, these elements create a rich learning environment shaped by what matters most in early research careers:
- Skill trainings on personal development, R&D methods, communication and career planning
- One-to-one mentoring with academics from another RUN-EU university
- Project work linked to Europe’s major priorities – green transition, digital transition and social inclusion
- Fireside Chats with leaders from science, industry and policy
- A final project pitch and the chance to integrate ideas into your thesis
How the first edition shaped its participants
Students described the atmosphere as curious, open and supportive – a place where ideas grow, confidence builds, and international perspectives truly matter.
And all of this with lots of fun and partnership.
As one participant summarised:
“The Academy gave me the confidence and skills to see myself as a researcher.”
Others highlighted the strong sense of community across fields and cultures:
“Exactly what I imagine a European University would feel like!”
“An inspiring experience that will be key to my PhD success.”
Mentors, too, emphasised the value of the programme:
“Seeing students’ enthusiasm and growth reaffirmed the importance of collaboration and mentorship.”
Why the Academy matters
Interested in joining?
The Academy enables young researchers to work on meaningful projects, grow personally and professionally, and address key societal challenges. By the end, participants gain clarity about their research path and build lasting connections with mentors and peers.
The application period for the 2026 edition opens on 1 December 2025.
We are looking forward to welcoming the next generation of emerging researchers to the 2026 edition of the RUN-DIS Student Academy.