Horizon Europe Goes To Makassar

On Saturday, April 27, 2024, the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at Hasanuddin University hosted Dr. Tatas Brotosudarmo from EURAXESS ASEAN as a keynote speaker during the 6th International Conference on Science (ICOS). This event attracted 174 participants, including researchers, faculty members, and both graduate and postgraduate students from Hasanuddin University and neighbouring institutions in Makassar.

Dr. Brotosudarmo's presentation focused on providing comprehensive insights into the opportunities available through Horizon Europe, particularly in terms of research funding, career advancement, and collaborative initiatives. Specific emphasis was placed on the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship, Doctoral Networks, and Staff Exchanges, alongside discussions regarding the European Research Council (ERC) and Horizon Europe's Pillar 2.

Hasanuddin University, situated in Makassar City, South Sulawesi Province, Indonesia, stands as a prominent institution within the country's academic landscape, currently ranking 6th among Indonesia's leading universities according to Times Higher Education – World University Ranking. With 17 faculties spanning diverse disciplines, including sciences, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine, arts, and social sciences, the university accommodates over 44,000 students. Supporting facilities such as Integrated Laboratories, Research Centers, Centres of Excellence, Technology Centers, a Teaching Industry Unit, and a Science Technopark are pivotal in fostering advancements in science and technology, particularly in maritime studies, where UNHAS excels as a national center of excellence.

Makassar serves as a pivotal hub in Central and East Indonesia, offering substantial opportunities for research and innovation. As evidenced by the Horizon Dashboard, Indonesia has already made significant strides in Horizon Europe participation, boasting nine signed grants, including eight MSCA grants and one grant under Pillar 2 Cluster 6, with a university in Makassar contributing to one of the MSCA grants. There is a collective aspiration for the burgeoning community of young scientists and researchers in Makassar to actively engage in and contribute to Indonesia-EU research collaborations through the Horizon Europe program.