„European Universities: the ambitious transformation of European Higher Education and Research” – Dr. Nuno Escudeiro (University of Porto, Portugal; Athena European University)
A transformation wave impacting higher education and research is crossing Europe since 2018, mainly due to the ambitious European Universities initiative by the European Commission and the member states but also somehow due to the Covid-19 pandemic that suddenly pushed academics for online teaching and novel pedagogies.
These are times of deconstruction, reconstruction and innovation over traditional higher education that has been steady and crystallized for ages. It is time to act, to be part of this exciting transformation process and to take the best advantage of this lifetime opportunity.
In this lecture we will discuss the European Universities initiative, the mechanisms supporting such a challenging and ambitious flagship in the European agenda and introduce the novel approaches being essayed by the ATHENA European University alliance to advance European Higher Education and Research to unprecedent levels.
"How I ran up the mountain of archaeology…" – Prof. Andrzej Kokowski (Maria Curie-Skłodowska University)
My desire to become an archaeologist started when I was twelve. Against the will of my parents, teachers and common sense, I got accepted at the university in Poznań to study archaeology. Against my family and workmates, I got employed at the UMCS in Lublin. Against the opinion of my new workmates, I started excavations in the Hrubieszów Basin. Contrary to the established view of prehistory, I discovered the Goths there. Then came the time for ‘pieces of cake’: Alexander von Humboldt Scholarship; Illerup Project; KAFU membership; innovative projects concerning the Goths and Vandals; National Geographic Award for the Scientific Discovery of the Year … and a circle of wonderful co-workers, who brought archaeological research to the heights of professionalism that I could only dream about; and of course Laboratorium Historiae Gothorum, which is being built in Masłomęcz. Have I climbed the mountain of archaeological dreams? Because I still cannot see the top!
„How to publish your work” – Dr. Konstantinos Petridis (Hellenic Mediterranean University; Athena European University)
In this talk, we will present tips to be followed to publicize your research: manuscript preparation, journal selection, submission phase, how to address the reviewers, and publish & disseminate your work.
„Equality, Mobility, Professional Growth, Or On Being a Woman Scholar in the 21st-Century Academia” – Dr. Izabella Kimak (Maria Curie-Skłodowska University)
Recent years have seen a proliferation of discussions on the position of women in academia: from the studies of unequal division of housework and child-rearing duties during the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in women falling behind on research, to institutional attempts to ensure equality for women in academia. As examples of the latter, the European Research Council Gender equality plan may be mentioned alongside our own Polish initiative “Doskonałość naukowa nie ma płci” (which can be translated as “Scholarly Excellence Has No Gender”). In this short presentation I wish to reflect on the challenges of being a woman in the 21st-century academia, focusing in particular on questions of equal access to funding and possibilities of academic mobility. I will also be looking into ways of countering these challenges, among others, through the participation in various support groups.
“How to fight for publications in a prestigious journal” – Dr. Marton Demeter (National University of Public Service in Budapest, Hungary), Háló Gergő, M.A. (National University of Public Service in Budapest, Hungary)
In this webinar, we will explore effective strategies for increasing your chances of getting published in a prestigious academic journal. We will cover topics such as selecting the right journal, crafting a compelling manuscript, understanding the peer review process, and responding to reviewer feedback. Our expert speakers will share their experiences and insights on how to navigate the publication process and give you practical tips for improving your manuscript and increasing your chances of acceptance. Whether you're a seasoned researcher or just starting out, this webinar will provide valuable guidance for anyone looking to publish their work in a top-tier journal.
„Focused on research development! HR Excellence in Research” – International Cooperation Center MCSU
Maria Curie Sklodowska University in 2017 received a prestigious award granted by the European Commission: HR Excellence in Research. During this time, the University's authorities have taken many measures aimed at increasing the attractiveness of employment conditions and creating a working environment conducive to the development of researchers. The implemented action is a result of the recommendations contained in two documents: The European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers.
The implemented activities can be grouped into 4 key areas: ethics and professionalism; staff recruitment; working conditions; training and career development. Among the most important are: Appointment of the Academic Ombudsman; introduction of periodic training on equality, anti-bullying, and discrimination; development of an Anti-Discrimination Guide; development and adoption of a Gender Equality Plan; adoption of Anti-Bullying Regulations; Development of a Code of Ethics for Academic Teachers at the UMCS and an analogous Code of Ethics for Doctoral Students at the UMCS; the opening of a Welcome Center for Foreign Students and Academics; development of a Guide for Foreign Academics; organization of lectures on career planning for academics; organization of periodic meetings in the Business Mentoring Sessions series; launch of a website dedicated to academics.
