Research capacity gain for Czech institute of technology
CEITEC specialises in life science and advanced materials research, and with the help of the EU-funded SYLICA(opens in new window) (Synergies of life and material sciences to create a new future) project, four of its research areas received a capacity boost. These are the interdisciplinary fields of cell-surface interactions, bio-sensing, materials for tissue engineering, and methods for biomolecular, biointeraction and biomaterial studies. SYLICA built and fostered partnership networks with 12 institutions, including leading universities and research institutes from six EU Member States that carry out research in life and material sciences. The project ensured the reintegration of five experienced Czech scientists and 27 postdoctoral researchers from abroad. This international exchange of knowhow was further cemented through 18 visits to 12 partner institutions involving 35 leading scientists and management members. This led to 16 joint projects. Researchers were also sent for training at the partner institutions, and CEITEC itself hosted 134 visits from international experts. All of these efforts have contributed to the identification of opportunities for further scientific collaboration. A series of key events raised CEITEC visibility and exchange of scientific knowledge. Five international scientific conferences were held that attracted 1 478 speakers and nearly 600 participants, and nine workshops took place with 110 speakers and over 550 attendees. In addition, 2 600 participants benefited from 33 lectures given by renowned scientists from abroad. Six open days that saw about 2 400 visitors to CEITEC facilities were also organised. In total, 33 publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals were produced that focused on the interdisciplinary topics. A spike in human resources at CEITEC will result in better integration into the European Research Area, as well as a new generation of skilled researchers. The skills development facilitated by the project also means CEITEC's core facilities and equipment can be maximally exploited for scientific research.