STER NAWA Project for IDS TUL doctoral candidates, implementation 2025–2027
2 million PLN for the Internationalization of Education at the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Lodz University of Technology
Lodz University of Technology has been granted funding of PLN 2 million under the STER NAWA program to implement the project "IMPROVE – International Mission for the Promotion of Research and Optimal Values in Education." The main goal of the project is to make the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School more international, improve the quality of doctoral training, and strengthen long-term scientific cooperation with other countries.
Main Activities for doctoral candidates
The „IMPROVE” project includes many initiatives for both Polish and international doctoral candidates:
- awarding NAWA scholarships for the best international doctoral candidates or Polish doctoral candidates conducting doctoral projects in international collaboration,
- financial support for international mobility within scientific and research internships,
- the project also assumes inviting prominent international professors from renowned research institutions to give lectures and consultations for doctoral candidates; additionally, the involvement of international supervisors is planned as part of the activities related to supervision, training, and the evaluation of doctoral candidates’ scientific development, particularly in the public defense of their doctoral dissertation.
An integral part of the project is a variety of workshops and training sessions that will support the development of doctoral candidates’ competencies. Planned activities include:
- an intercultural workshop designed to foster relationships in an international environment,
- a Polish language course for international doctoral candidates to facilitate their integration with the local academic community,
- critical thinking workshops that will prepare doctoral candidates to analyze information in an objective and logical way, which is essential for making research decision,
- training in the basics of artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, which will enhance doctoral candidates' skills in using modern technologies in scientific research and effective protection of data and research outcomes from digital threats,
- workshops on data management, addressing a growing importance of data analytics in scientific research.
To increase the visibility of the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Lodz University of Technology on the international stage, the "IMPROVE" project includes promotional and informational activities:
- an instructional video to simplify the application process to IDS TUL,
- podcasts that promote training at IDS TUL and highlight the benefits of pursuing a PhD at Lodz University of Technology,
- short 1–3-minute videos showcasing cultural similarities and differences, aimed at encouraging intercultural dialogue,
- video guides dedicated to both prospective and current doctoral candidates, providing practical tips on training at IDS TUL.
The implementation of the "IMPROVE" project will begin in the first quarter of 2025 and run until December 2027. During this time, the Interdisciplinary Doctoral School of Lodz University of Technology plans to significantly increase its presence on the international arena. With the support of the STER NAWA program, IDS TUL doctoral candidates will gain unique opportunities for scientific development in an international academic environment.
Project implementation period: January 2025 – December 2027
Project value (NAWA): PLN 2,000,000
Project contact: isd@adm.p.lodz.pl