Within the framework of the flagship Horizon Europe project titled «Research and Innovation Strategy for APP dedicated to white-emitting organic lighting systems» (acronym – HELIOS), the second episode of the specialized podcast HELIOS: New Light on Science has been presented. The guest for this new episode was Nataliia Kuzyk, a PhD student at the Department of Electronic Engineering, Early Stage Researcher (ESR), and member of the HELIOS project team at APP. The podcast was hosted by Nazariy Andrushchak, Head of the University Project Office.
The discussion centered on the professional development of young scientists within this international initiative under the WIDERA programme. Nataliia shared her personal journey – from her first steps in science to her daily work on advanced developments in electronic engineering. Special attention was paid to how participation in the HELIOS project transforms the concept of a modern scientific career, allowing for the integration of fundamental PhD training with practical work on the innovative technologies of the future.
A significant aspect of the conversation was the experience of working within an international scientific consortium that unites partners from Ukraine, Lithuania, the United Kingdom, Latvia, and Luxembourg. According to the young researcher, the challenge-oriented team format offers unique opportunities for knowledge exchange and integration into the European Research Area. The status of an Early Stage Researcher in such a large-scale project allows young specialists not only to adopt best global methodologies but also to directly influence the development of strategic research areas at APP, enhancing its international profile.
Particular focus was placed on the potential real-world impact of bio-organic lighting technologies and the importance of sustainable development. As a representative of the new generation of scientists, Nataliia emphasized the role of eco-conscious innovations in creating next-generation energy-efficient lighting systems. The HELIOS project provides PhD students with effective development tools – ranging from specialized workshops to research stays in the leading laboratories of partner institution – which is crucial for training specialists capable of publishing results in high-ranking international journals and representing Ukrainian science on the global stage.
Despite the profound challenges brought by the state of war, young Ukrainian researchers demonstrate exceptional dedication and resilience. A creative approach to solving engineering problems and persistence in working on complex technological projects prove that Ukrainian scientific youth are an essential part of the global intellectual space, capable of delivering high-quality research even under extreme conditions.
The full recording of the second episode, which delves into the daily life of a PhD student in modern engineering and the prospects for youth in Horizon Europe projects, is available on .
The project is funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe (WIDERA) programme.