The Tenure-Track pilot programme responds to the challenge of keeping excellent researchers in Croatia by offering them attractive research conditions. Thus, outstanding researchers shall be assigned as assistant professors. Selected by an expert panel according to a list of criteria and associated to a Croatian University, they are building up their research group on a selected future-oriented topic.

Statistical figures confirm a backlog in research in the country, for example, the percentage of scientific publications of Croatian researchers in most quoted scientific publications is three times below the EU average. Domestic Expenditure on Research (Research and Innovation) with 0,86% (2017) remains below the EU-28 average of 2,07% in the same year.

The project is designed to offer young and talented researchers an attractive long-term career perspective in Croatia.
The following outcomes are expected:

• Young excellent researchers who participate in the tenure career model achieve international research level
• The academic institutions gain new experience and increased skills in research and management capacities
• The internationally recognized Tenure Track model is designed for the Croatian context and evaluated, with the perspective of up-scaling the pilot programme to the entire research community in Croatia

• Preparation of call
• Selection of researchers and mentors
• Perform research
• Evaluate Tenure Track Model

Complemented by promotional and visibility activities and by support for management and administration of the research projects, this approach corresponds to international practice. The Croatian Science Foundation acts as the Executive Agency. The Swiss EPFL coaches the Croatian Science Foundation, e.g. by providing expertise to the research groups, or by contributing to evaluate the Tenure Track model by its mid and end term. The Ministry of Science and Education ensures the financial control and the supervision of the implementation.

Achieved results:  

• Three top researchers were selected by an international panel and have composed their research groups.  Currently all have started their three years research projects. Each team is benefitting beside financial means of an international mentorship in their field of expertise. Assistant professors selected under the requirement of excellency compose their research groups
• New knowledge is created; excellency in research leads to the attractiveness of Croatia for businesses and industries
• The Tenure-Track model is promoted at national level, and platforms created allow for promotion and expert exchange
• Counselling for host institutions and researchers
• Development of instruments and tools for evaluation procedures and recruitment

Expected results:  

• Assistant professors selected under the requirement of excellency compose their research groups
• New knowledge is created; excellency in research leads to the attractiveness of Croatia for businesses and industries
• The Tenure-Track model is promoted at national level, and platforms created allow for promotion and expert exchange
• Counselling for host institutions and researchers
• Development of instruments and tools for evaluation procedures and recruitment