A consortium of six universities and research institutions from the region – including the University of Warsaw – has won the first edition of NAWA’s competition to create regional support networks for international researchers and PhD candidates. Backed by over PLN 1 million in funding, the new network will help make the region even more welcoming and accessible to global academic talent.
The Mazovian network is one of 11 regional initiatives launched under NAWA’s new programme: NAWA–EURAXESS NETWORK. Its goal is to foster cooperation between academic institutions, universities, and local organisations supporting international researchers, doctoral candidates, and their families—helping to create a friendly and inclusive environment for those arriving in Poland.
The project, titled “Establishment of a Regional NAWA–EURAXESS Network in the Mazovian Voivodeship,” is coordinated by the National Centre for Nuclear Research (NCBJ), with the UW as one of the partners. Other institutions involved include:
- International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology in Warsaw (IIMCB)
- Warsaw University of Life Sciences (SGGW)
- Nalecz Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering (PAN)
- International Institute of Molecular Mechanisms and Machines (IMol, PAS)
The project will run from 2025 to 2028, supported by a total grant of over PLN 1.1 million from the European Funds for Social Development 2021–2027. Planned activities include training sessions on legalisation of stay procedures and intercultural communication, integration and sports events, and study visits. The primary aim is to establish a strong regional support network for international researchers and academic institutions within the Mazovian Voivodeship.
At the UW, the winning project was developed and is being implemented under the coordination of Welcome Point, the office dedicated to supporting international researchers and staff.
UW officially joined the European EURAXESS network in March 2025. EURAXESS is a European Commission initiative that supports researcher mobility and career development. In Poland, the national EURAXESS network—currently comprising 16 universities and research institutions—is coordinated by NAWA. Participation in the Mazovian NAWA–EURAXESS project marks another important step in enhancing support for international researchers and reflects UW’s ongoing commitment to the internationalisation of research and education.
