The future of the European science system fundamentally depends on its researchers, and it is therefore essential to continue fostering attractive and sustainable research careers. Yet, a wide range of challenges is currently shaping both researchers’ professional trajectories and the broader EU research and innovation ecosystem.
Against this backdrop, DG Research & Innovation commissioned the Foresight On Demand team to conduct a study examining the long term trends, disruptions, and challenges likely to influence researchers’ careers in Europe.
The overall aim is to identify the long term challenges facing research careers in the European Union. More specifically, the study pursues the following objectives:
- Identify long term trends and disruptions affecting researchers’ careers in Europe.
- Develop plausible scenarios (to 2040) for the evolution of the EU’s researcher workforce.
- Propose policy pathways and identify challenges. The study will outline potential EU level policy approaches and governance reforms that could generate added value through coordinated action.
By informing policymaking, the study’s findings will aim to support greater coordination among Member States and strengthen the effectiveness of governance structures, funding mechanisms, and frameworks for research career development across Europe.
