IAB meeting 2025 in Liblice: strategic research directions and their importance for the STAR project

25. 11. 2025

From 19 to 21 November 2025, a meeting of the International Advisory Board (IAB) of the Nuclear Physics Institute (NPI) was held at the Liblice Chateau. The meeting provided a comprehensive overview of the institute’s strategic development, scientific directions, personnel policy, and international cooperation - areas that are also key to the STAR project.

One of the main topics was a discussion of the scientific directions of NPI, which represent a long-term framework for the development of research, investments in infrastructure, and human resources planning. The IAB appreciated NPI’s ability to clearly formulate its strategic priorities and to support them with strong research infrastructures such as CANAM, as well as with new infrastructure projects. According to the IAB, well-defined scientific directions are essential for maintaining excellence, the targeted development of expertise, and strengthening international competitiveness.

Experience gained from Horizon Europe projects and joint ESA projects also played an important role in the discussion, as these initiatives support the professionalization of management, transparent HR processes, and strategic planning. These elements directly contribute to achieving the objectives of the STAR project, particularly in the areas of HR Excellence, research team management, and institutional resilience.

The IAB also highlighted the growing international role of NPI. Participation in European consortia (RIANA, NEPHEWS, RADNEXT) and cooperation with leading institutions (DESY, HZDR, ESA) confirm that NPI is dynamically positioning itself among European centers for nuclear physics and related fields.

The program also included presentations by early-career researchers, demonstrating that the strategic directions are not merely a formal document but are genuinely reflected in vibrant research topics and in the development of a new generation of scientists. The goals and planned changes in human resources management and managerial governance within the STAR project were also discussed in detail. These changes will lead to the creation of a modern research environment at the institute.

The final discussion confirmed that is moving in the right direction and that the activities implemented within the STAR project significantly contribute to strengthening scientific excellence, modern management, and the long-term stability of the institute.

Program of the IAB meeting 2025

EU MŠMT Barevné RGB AJ

IAB meeting 2025 in Liblice: strategic research directions and their importance for the STAR project

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