PILLAR II
Valorisation of research and young researchers
The profile of the University as a research university is consolidated through the promotion of an environment conducive to scientific research, the enhancement of talent and support, in particular, for young researchers.
Abstract
In line with its objectives, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore is committed to directing research with respect for human dignity, quality of life, justice and sustainability, pursuing the promotion of peace and the development of more equitable economic and social models.
Fostered by its multidisciplinary dimension, the University promotes both basic and applied scientific research and study in theoretical and theological disciplines, cultivating the dialogue between empirical sciences and speculative knowledge. Through the Strategic Plan, the University intends to strengthen its profile as a research university, based on excellence, responsibility and social impact.
In particular, the Plan aims to create favourable conditions, especially for young researchers, to develop original lines of research, enter the scientific community and follow career paths based on merit and quality. In this framework, the aim is to increase participation in national and international research projects, strengthening project structures and services, encouraging inclusion in high-level scientific networks, creating an inclusive and attractive environment capable of enhancing talent and autonomy.
Strategic objectives
The aim of the University is to make the research system attractive to young researchers, starting with PhD students, by creating favourable conditions for the development of skills in a stimulating environment, supported by resources, infrastructures and scientific relationships.
Criteria for the evaluation and enhancement of merit will be defined for recruitment and career paths, with particular attention to high-potential profiles.
Strategic action plan
A1. Improvement of recruitment and retention processes
A2. Research funds for young researchers
A3. Attractiveness, resources, recognition and internationalisation of Doctoral Programmes
A4. Involvement of PhD students in research projects
The creation and the improvement of dedicated structures are envisaged, together with the development of training programmes and approriate tools aimed at strengthening the focus on principles such as: integrity, accountability and research ethics. Researchers, in particular younger researchers and PhD students, will be guided to act in accordance with disciplinary specificities and adapt to international standards in the various phases of research, from planning to dissemination of results.
Strategic action plan
B1. The Research Ethics and Integrity Committee
B2. Raising awareness of ethical issues
The University aims to enhance and systematise existing institutional partnerships, promoting new ones with organisations that share the same values, and to strengthen collaboration with institutions, bodies and organisations consistent with its cultural and scientific mission.
The University encourages a wider participation of the academic community in partnership initiatives, facilitating access to opportunities and the involvement of young researchers, also as proposers or coordinators; it also strengthens the role of research carried out in partnership with companies and institutions, directing it towards the enhancement and transfer of results in integration with the needs of the business world.
Strategic action plans
C1. Promotion of partnerships
C2. Systematisation of institutional and corporate partnerships
C3. Participation in transnational partnerships
C4. Monitoring of the facilities following the conclusion of PNRR funding
C5. Incentives for outgoing researchers
C6. Intellectual property training
C7. Incentives for patenting
In order to promote individual talent and research groups, with particular attention to young researchers, criteria and procedures for the awarding of internal research funding have been updated. The tools have been aligned with the University's strategic research action plans and development priorities.
Strategic action plans
D1. Review of internal procedures
D2. Deductions on external funding derived from funded research activities
Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore encourages the involvement of all academic and technical-administrative staff in the establishment of a research community, considered strategic for the development of the University. The community, inspired by the values of the Social Doctrine of the Church, faces contemporary challenges with an international and interdisciplinary perspective, in harmony with the most recent documents of the social magisterium. The aim is to generate scientific, institutional and social impact, enhancing the role of researchers and those dedicated to research.
Strategic action plan
E1. Establishment of a research community
E2. Promotion of project proposals
To support high-level research, the University intends to promote the mapping of the research infrastructures present across the various campuses, including laboratories, equipment, open-access data and digital resources, encouraging interaction with the platforms and portals made available by the funding bodies. The infrastructural, physical and information resources will be made accessible and interoperable for the entire research community, with attention to young researchers and the development of open science practices.
Strategic action plan
F1. Access to and use of infrastructure
F2. Open science
F3. Management of research datasets
F4. Training sessions on software applications
To maximise the scientific, social and economic impact of research, the development of a dedicated communication system is planned. Young researchers, particularly in the early stages of their careers, will be supported in the exploitation and dissemination of results, with the aim of reaching institutional, economic, social, and cultural stakeholders.
Strategic action plan
G1. Support for researchers in showcasing the value of their research findings