During the initial phase of the PRISMAS programme, the primary focus was on recruiting the PhD students. To support this, a robust management structure, reporting system, and strong collaboration among the eight implementing universities were established. Additionally, essential documentation, such as the applicants’ handbook or guidelines for reviewers including evaluation criteria, and more, was developed, along with a communication strategy and social media presence to attract candidates and later (in the following period) to disseminate results.
The recruitment and evaluation processes were carefully structured, involving external experts for review committees and collaboration with local HR personnel to streamline procedures. Three recruitment calls were conducted, resulting in 2,954 applications. Ultimately, 37 out of 40 positions were successfully filled, and 31 students—16 males and 15 females—have commenced their PhD studies in Sweden.
The training and education programme has also been developed. A Study Programme Committee designed the Career Development Plan, a key tool for tracking students' progress, particularly regarding PRISMAS goals and the mandatory secondment at MAX IV, while also guiding their career development. A process for yearly follow-up has also been established.
A journal club, launched in September 2024, holds monthly remote meetings where PRISMAS students present and discuss scientific publications, focusing on methods and techniques relevant to various research fields. Each session is led by two students, who also chair a related scientific discussion, giving them opportunities to develop further their skills while strengthening the established network.
Preparations for the first summer school to be held in June 2025, are underway. Additionally, a kick-off meeting in early 2023 brought together principal investigators from participating universities at MAX IV. The first PRISMAS Annual Meeting took place in Stockholm in June 2024, featuring student project presentations, scientific talks, industry insights, and programme updates, fostering valuable discussions and networking.
Following the ethics assessment conducted during the proposal stage, an independent ethics advisor has been appointed and a plan for annual review process of the ethical compliance across the programme has been agreed.
