During the reporting period, the MERIT programme reached full implementation capacity, with all 30 postdoctoral fellows actively conducting their research projects across 15 host institutions.
The core technical activity consisted of the implementation of individual research projects across five key thematic areas: biotechnology/biomedicine, laser technologies, space technologies, sustainable energy and materials, and digitalisation/AI.
All 30 research projects were launched and are being implemented, representing the full capacity of the programme.
Continuous monitoring and reporting ensured alignment with the Description of the Action and allowed early identification of risks or delays.
In a limited number of cases, corrective measures were required (e.g. project redesign due to funding constraints or delays).
Research projects progressed in line with the planned objectives in the majority of cases, as confirmed by continuous monitoring. Small deviations in the individual projects has been resolved.
Researchers generated significant scientific outputs through a combination of:
- experimental work (e.g. laser-driven proton experiments, biological studies, material testing),
- theoretical modelling and numerical simulations (e.g. astrophysics and AI-supported analysis),
- development of new technologies and methodologies (e.g. advanced laser systems, novel therapeutic approaches).
Intersectoral and interdisciplinary research
A strong emphasis was placed on intersectoral and interdisciplinary research collaboration.
- Multiple secondments were implemented or initiated, involving both academic and non-academic partners, including industry and international research institutions.
- These secondments directly supported application-oriented research, technology validation and knowledge transfer.
- Research projects increasingly combined expertise from different domains (e.g. AI in astrophysics, laser physics in medical applications)
