Introduction to the Polish Powroty NAWA Program

The Polish Powroty NAWA program is designed to enable distinguished Polish scientists to return to their home country and secure employment at Polish universities, research institutes, or scientific institutions. This initiative allows scientists residing in foreign research centers to create their own project group in Poland and conduct research under optimal conditions.

Program Objectives and Eligibility

The primary goal of the Polish Powroty NAWA program is to facilitate the return of talented Polish scientists and provide them with the opportunity to establish their own research team. To be eligible, candidates must:

• Hold Polish citizenship
• Possess a doctoral degree (for the Junior Scientist track, the degree must have been obtained no earlier than 7 years before the application submission)
• Have worked in a foreign university, research institute, or research department of a company during the period specified in the program announcement, without residing or working in Poland
• Demonstrate an internationally recognized scientific achievement, distinguished in the context of their discipline and career stage
• For the Experienced Scientist track, candidates must have managed the implementation of at least one research project selected in a national or international competition

Program Structure and Financing

The program consists of two tracks, depending on the scientist's career stage:

• Junior Scientist
• Experienced Scientist

The program finances:

• The returning scientist's salary
• The salary of the inviting person
• The salary of the project group
• Adaptation and organization of the workplace, as well as preparation of the research infrastructure
• Relocation of the returning scientist
• A research component funded by the National Science Center

Project Duration and Funding

For the Junior Scientist track, projects can last from 24 to 36 months, with NAWA funding up to 1,193,200 PLN. For the Experienced Scientist track, projects can last from 36 to 48 months, with NAWA funding up to 2,447,600 PLN. Additionally, for basic research, applicants can apply for a research component from the National Science Center - a starting grant of up to 200,000 PLN.

Application Details

The application period for the Polish Powroty NAWA program is from May 14, 2021, to July 29, 2021, until 3:00 PM (local time for Warsaw).

Program Requirements

• The program is open to Polish citizens who have worked abroad and wish to return to Poland.
• Candidates must meet specific eligibility criteria, including holding a doctoral degree and demonstrating internationally recognized scientific achievements.
• The program offers financing for various aspects of the research project, including salaries, infrastructure, and relocation.

Research Areas

The program supports research in various areas, with a focus on basic and applied research. The specific research areas are not limited, but candidates must demonstrate the potential for their research to contribute significantly to their field.

Benefits

The Polish Powroty NAWA program offers several benefits to participating scientists, including:

• Financial support for research projects
• Opportunity to establish a research team in Poland
• Access to research infrastructure and resources
• Relocation support for returning scientists

Conclusion

The Polish Powroty NAWA program is a unique opportunity for Polish scientists to return to their home country and pursue research in a supportive and well-funded environment. With its comprehensive financing and focus on basic and applied research, this program has the potential to make a significant impact on the scientific community in Poland.