From PhD to Research Manager
As part of the ongoing secondment activities within the FREECOVER project, a highly engaging masterclass titled “From PhD to Research Manager” was successfully held on 20 March 2026 at the Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona.
The session was delivered by Dr. Leonardo Piccinetti, with the participation of Donatella Santoro, both representing SITES, a key partner in the FREECOVER project.
Bridging Research and Career Development
The masterclass focused on supporting early-stage researchers and PhD candidates in navigating their professional journey beyond academia. Dr. Piccinetti shared valuable insights on:
- Transitioning from academic research to research management roles
- Understanding European research ecosystems and funding frameworks
- Developing key skills in grant writing, leadership, and project coordination
- Managing collaborative international research projects
Participants actively engaged in discussions, reflecting on real-life challenges and opportunities in building careers within European research and innovation environments.
Strengthening Capacity through Secondments
This activity highlights the importance of secondments in the FREECOVER project, enabling knowledge exchange not only in technical research but also in professional development and capacity building.
By combining scientific excellence with career-oriented training, FREECOVER continues to empower researchers and strengthen collaboration across partner institutions.
Driving Impact Beyond Research
The masterclass represents FREECOVER’s broader commitment to:
- Enhancing researcher skills
- Promoting interdisciplinary collaboration
- Supporting the next generation of research leaders
- Bridging the gap between science, management, and innovation
Through initiatives like this, FREECOVER contributes to building a stronger, more connected, and sustainable European research community.
