Building Connections, Supporting Research: Petra Rabitsch on the Young Researchers Grant and the Power of Mobility

When you’re part of a network for over a decade, the relationships and initiatives you foster are bound to leave a lasting impact. Petra Rabitsch from the University of Graz, a long-time member of the Utrecht Network, shares her experiences and insights on how the network’s commitment to supporting young researchers and promoting mobility continues to grow.

A Strong Foundation in Mobility and Research

Petra has been actively involved in the Utrecht Network since 2008, contributing to the growth and success of various initiatives. As the Deputy Head of International Relations at the University of Graz, Petra plays a central role in coordinating outgoing student mobility outside of the Erasmus+ programme. Her journey with the Utrecht Network began when she helped establish the student mobility initiative, which soon evolved into a dedicated task force.

UN Student Mobility Task Force

The Young Researchers Grant: Supporting Talent Across Borders

One of the key initiatives Petra has been deeply involved with is the Young Researchers Grant. This grant, aimed at supporting PhD and Master’s students at Utrecht Network universities, is awarded to those looking to conduct research at other member institutions. Through this initiative, young researchers are given the opportunity to expand their academic horizons and further their research in a collaborative, cross-border environment.

“The Young Researchers Grant has been an incredibly rewarding project,” Petra explains. “We have a steady number of applications each year, and the quality of the candidates is impressive. This program is all about nurturing talent and fostering a sense of academic community, which is truly at the heart of the Utrecht Network.”

Steady Growth and Continued Engagement

Despite the steady number of applicants, Petra and her team are always looking to engage more students and universities in the grant process. With 30 partner universities in the network, they aim to broaden participation and increase the number of applicants each year.

“It’s a gratifying process when we see the grants being awarded to the most deserving candidates. The applications keep coming in, and they’re always high-quality,” Petra says. “But we’d love to see more universities getting involved.”

A Personal Connection to the Network

Beyond the professional achievements, Petra reflects on the personal connection she’s formed with the Utrecht Network over the years. “Being part of this network feels like coming home,” she says. “It’s a family. I see many members more often than I see my own friends back home. The personal relationships are just as important as the professional ones.”

Petra’s dedication to the network and the success of its initiatives speaks to the power of collaboration, mobility, and research. It’s this commitment to fostering long-term relationships that makes the Utrecht Network a strong and unique community.