This online courses are designed to help participants lay the foundation of a language, helping them every step of the way. The sessions consist of two-hour interactive online lessons once a week with an experienced tutor.

Following a communicative and task-based approach, so students are expected to actively participate in the session and to do autonomous work before and after the online class. More information about the methodology and course materials will be provided at the beginning of the course.

These courses are open to all members of the Arqus Alliance, but due to high demand, we can accept only up to two participants per university.

Registration is already open for the Italian and Irish courses. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to expand your horizons and learn a new language. For more information and registration, click .

The image shows a representation of the miliacin biomolecule embedded within the dental calculus of human teeth from the Ostriv burial. The molecule is specific to the broomcorn millet plant and is incorporated into the calculus matrices during the consumption of millet-based meals.

A ground-breaking has, for the first time, identified minute traces of broomcorn millet consumption directly from human dental calculus, offering an unprecedented window into medieval diets and expanding the toolkit available to archaeologists for reconstructing ancient foodways. Researchers from �۶���Ƶ, the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties, the University of York, Frontier Laboratories Ltd., and the Institute of Archaeology in Kyiv applied an advanced analytical technique – thermal desorption gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (TD-GC/MS) – to human dental calculus recovered from the medieval Ostriv cemetery in central Ukraine (10th–12th centuries CE).

The team successfully detected miliacin, a molecular biomarker uniquely abundant in broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum), in eight of the 31 individuals analysed. This represents the first direct molecular evidence of millet consumption retrieved from human dental calculus anywhere in the world.

Detecting What Isotopes Miss

“Our findings demonstrate that even the smallest traces of millet leave molecular fingerprints in dental calculus,” said Dr Shinya Shoda, co-lead author from the Nara National Research Institute for Cultural Properties. “This opens up an entirely new way to detect subtle dietary practices in the past.”

Traditional stable isotope analysis can identify millet consumption only when it makes up more than ~20% of an individual’s dietary protein. As a result, low-level or occasional millet consumption, especially common in seasonal, opportunistic, or socially variable diets, often goes unnoticed. In this study, several individuals with clear miliacin signals showed depleted δ¹³C values, suggesting that conventional isotopic analyses would have overlooked their intake of C4 plants such as millet. In other words, the conventional isotopic approach would have suggested that these people did not eat millet at all – while the molecular evidence clearly shows they did. This highlights how easily such subtle dietary signals can be missed by traditional methods.

A New Tool for Reconstructing Ancient Diets

The successful use of TD-GC/MS on microgram-scale samples – far smaller than previously possible – marks a significant methodological advance. The approach is efficient, minimally destructive, and broadly applicable across archaeological contexts.

“This technique allows us to access underrepresented plant foods that rarely appear in the archaeological record,” said Prof. Giedrė Motuzaitė Matuzevičiūtė, co-lead author. “It gives us a clearer picture of everyday diets and how people adapted to local environments and cultural changes.”

Insights into Medieval Communities

The medieval population of Ostriv, part of the Kievan Rus’ cultural sphere and influenced by both Slavic and Baltic communities, showed variable dietary histories. In several individuals, miliacin was found despite isotope signatures reflecting little childhood exposure to millet: suggesting adoption of millet consumption later in life, possibly linked to migration or changing food availability.

“Dental calculus is a biological material often found on human teeth. Finding species-specific plants in the calculus matrix in combination with other biomolecular archaeology techniques” opens a new possibility to understand the nutrition of past populations,” says the anthropologist of the study, Dr Aleksandra Kozak from the Institute of Archaeology in Kyiv.

This study highlights the transformative potential of dental calculus analysis for identifying ancient plant use. The new methodology may reshape our understanding of dietary diversity across time, geography, and social identities. This research will also be vital in understanding processes of dietary shifts to new crop consumption in various societies before they become ubiquitous. “This study also holds immense potential for identifying biomolecules of other underrepresented plants of economic and medicinal importance”, said Prof. Motuzaitė Matuzevičiūtė.

A full study is available

This research was supported by the European Research Council Consolidator Grant “MILWAYS – Past and Future Millet Foodways” (101087964), awarded to Prof. Motuzaitė Matuzevičiūtė at �۶���Ƶ, the Mitsubishi Foundation Research Grants in the Humanities awarded to Dr Shoda (SOUP, 202420018) and the “Baltic migrants at the border of the Kievan Rus” German Science Foundation (DFG) project P508078428 represented by Dr Kozak’s contribution.

‘To be honest, �۶���Ƶ significantly boosted my self-confidence. I was a good student back in Mexico, but I never truly felt that I had a strong academic background. VU helped me understand my abilities and showed me that there are meaningful challenges here for me to pursue. During my studies, we had genuinely interesting and complex course units, such as Economics, which proved very useful in my first job in Lithuania. In my view, the study programme aligns well with industry needs – especially for those aiming to work in the finance and banking sector,’ said G. A. Nota Salinas, a doctoral student in Economics at the VU Faculty of Economics and Business Administration.
He first came to Lithuania and VU as an exchange student, driven, as he says, by curiosity. Later, G. A. Mota Salinas chose to pursue his Master’s degree at VU EVAF because of the strong study programme and the rapid development of the fintech and banking sector in Lithuania.

While still a Master’s student, he joined ‘Western Union’ as a pricing analyst. ‘Interestingly, I had a very challenging course in Economics at the University. While it was tough at the time, I later found it extremely useful at ‘Western Union’, where I applied concepts like price elasticity and economic theory in practice.’

Gustavo says that he was promoted last year and now holds the position of a senior data scientist at the company. When asked about his future plans, the doctoral student mentioned that he envisions his life in Lithuania.

‘Over the years, I have built my own community here, in Lithuania, and grown very attached to the people. I cannot imagine living far from Lithuania – I see my future here. I also see this country developing in many directions,’ he added.
Job hunting, both in Lithuania and internationally, can be difficult despite the many opportunities available. The VU Career Centre, therefore, offers five key tips for success:

Target your applications

It may seem ‘safe’ to apply to multiple positions at once, but in Lithuania, employers tend to value targeted applications. Take time to read about the company and choose positions that genuinely match your skills. Targeted applications to one to three similar positions within a company help you stand out as a motivated candidate. However, applying to every open position in a company may demonstrate unclear motivation and result in your automatic rejection.

Make a strong first impression by email

A brief message like ‘Here is my CV’ will not convey who you are or how you can contribute to the company. Clear communication demonstrates professionalism and encourages others to take you and your CV seriously. Start with ‘Dear Hiring Manager,’ briefly introduce yourself, and explain why you are interested in the position.

Follow local professional etiquette

Lithuanians value punctuality and straightforward communication. Always arrive five to ten minutes early for interviews, confidently extend a handshake, make friendly eye contact, and maintain appropriate personal distance. People may appear reserved at first, but do not worry – trust will be built gradually.

Keep your CV and LinkedIn profile simple but strong

Use a clean layout, list your most recent experience first, and avoid including unnecessary personal details (such as gender or age). On LinkedIn, use a professional photo and a clear headline like ‘Business Student at VU | E-commerce.’ Enable the ‘Open to Work’ feature so recruiters can easily find you.

Be curious and proactive

Ask questions, join student events, and connect with classmates and professors. Networking is one of the most effective ways to discover opportunities in Lithuania. Just remember – contacting employers too often, such as sending multiple messages at once, can come across as impolite. Aim for a balance between showing your interest and respecting your potential employer’s time.

VU offers the following opportunities for students willing to test their skills with diverse organisations, develop business ideas, or discover their strengths:

The Smart Internship programme offers students from various fields of study the opportunity to work in teams of five to seven on cases provided by enterprises or institutions, under the guidance of both a University internship supervisor and a mentor from the host organisation. The programme is based on a creative thinking methodology, called Design Thinking, and includes optional training to help students strengthen skills in planning, teamwork, public speaking, and reflection. Open to all �۶���Ƶ students, regardless of programme, cycle, or year, Smart Internship provides not only insight into how organisations operate but also opportunities to build professional contacts and gain practical knowledge that supports future careers. To discover more about the Smart Internship scheme, please click here. In addition to Smart Internships, VU students can also participate in a one-year Erasmus+ Traineeship and a range of other career opportunities.

Tech Hub:

VU students interested in testing their entrepreneurial skills can join the VU Tech Hub, a six-month pre-accelerator programme held annually. During the programme, teams develop their business ideas and learn how to present them to investors, supported by experienced mentors, workshops, and individual consultations. Highly motivated students are selected for the Accelerator, where they not only gain essential entrepreneurial skills but also meet potential team members, become part of the start-up ecosystem, and have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to real investors. The team with the most promising idea receives a monetary prize from SEB Bank to support further business development. For more information about this opportunity, please visit this .

Future Skills Pentathlon:

VU organises a programme designed to help students discover their strengths across five competencies: cooperation, responsibility, intercultural understanding, problem-solving, and adaptability. Delivered in collaboration with partners and guest lecturers, the programme offers valuable insights and fosters a supportive environment for learning, communication, and personal growth. More information about the programme is available here.

Illustration by Justinas Griciūnas.

In the journal Cell Research of the Nature group, researchers from the Life Sciences Center of �۶���Ƶ revealing the detailed mechanism of action of the SPARDA (Short Prokaryotic Argonaute, DNase associated) bacterial defence system against viruses. The discovery marks a significant advancement in understanding the bacterial immunity strategies of this type.

According to the research supervisor and Research Professor at the Life Sciences Center of �۶���Ƶ, Dr Mindaugas Zaremba, this research provides a much more accurate understanding of the logic of bacterial immunity – how, after recognising the invader (for example, a bacteriophage – a virus that infects bacteria), structural changes in SPARDA proteins turn into a defensive reaction. Such knowledge is important, both from a fundamental perspective and for the development of new biotechnologies.

The Defence Mechanism Identified

Bacteria and bacteriophages have been involved in a continuous arms race for billions of years. Phages ‘inject’ their genetic material into the cell, take over its resources, multiply, and destroy the bacterial host. During evolution bacteria have developed large number of sophisticated defence mechanisms, and more than two hundred different types of defence systems are currently known. However, only a few are understood, such as restriction-modification systems or CRISPR-Cas, which have become tools for gene engineering and genome editing. Most of the others, including SPARDA, have been little studied so far.

‘SPARDA is interesting in that its activation determines the further fate of the bacterium – it stops the spread of the virus in the bacterial population by sacrificing the host cell itself. To understand this population-level benefit of a self-destructive pathway, we need to uncover the molecular cues and regulatory processes that initiate and control this response,’ noted Dr Zaremba.

According to the biochemist, this research revealed exactly how SPARDA works: from recognising the RNA fragment of the invader (bacteriophage or plasmid) to activating the defence programme. For a long time, this mechanism could only be inferred, but the specific structural changes in the SPARDA protein that caused it were unclear.

Defence-Activating Argonaute Proteins

‘The activation of SPARDA begins with the Argonaute protein. Its name is linked to the Argonauts of Greek mythology – the heroes who accompanied Jason aboard the Argo ship in the quest for the Golden Fleece. True to this reference, Argonaute proteins in the cell ‘search for’ fragments of foreign genetic material: they recognise small pieces of viral RNA inside the bacterium. This is not yet a defence reaction, only a recognised signal that something foreign has been detected in the cell,’ explained the VU researcher.

What happens next was, for a long time, the main secret in the mystery of SPARDA, according to the scientist. However, detailed research has shown exactly how this primary signal turns into a powerful defensive reaction that leads to the death of an infected cell.

‘In the Argonaute protein, we identified a structural region, a beta-relay, which is named due to its similarity to an electrical relay with two states. Beta-relay performs the function of recognising and transmitting the molecular signal. In the absence of a virus infection, the beta-relay is in the inactive ‘OFF’ state. After recognising the virus infection, conformational changes occur in the beta-relay (transition to the active ‘ON’ state), which are transmitted to the surface on the opposite side of the protein. This conformational change allows the protein to interact with other Argonaute proteins that are activated in the same way. Then, the activated proteins begin to assemble into filaments – long, spiral-like structures. Thus, individual activated proteins cooperate by forming a functional megastructure,’ explained Dr Zaremba.

The researcher emphasised that the filamentous form is the active state of SPARDA. In this state, proteins no longer act alone, but as a cooperative complex capable of rapidly and efficiently degrading DNA, which is both the genetic material of the invader (e.g. the virus) and the host (bacteria). Both the host and the invader perish. That is why the reaction of SPARDA is so radical.

‘Another significant revelation in our research is that beta-relay-initiated signal transmission is not limited to SPARDA systems. We detected a similar mechanism in other prokaryotic Argonaute proteins. Therefore, the discovered principle is universal,’ noted Dr Zaremba.

A Self-Sacrificing Strategy for the Benefit of the Population

According to the biochemist, although the SPARDA mechanism seems paradoxical at first glance, evolutionarily, it is a highly effective protection. By activating the defence mode, the system destroys not only the genetic material of the invader – the bacteriophage – but also the DNA of the bacteria itself. An individual bacterium seems to choose to ‘lose the battle’ to win the war – one cell dies, but the virus can no longer spread to the rest of the population.

‘This is a kind of cellular altruism – the death of one cell stops the infection and protects the rest of the community,’ clarified Dr Zaremba. This strategy is not chaotic or random. SPARDA only activates when the Argonaute protein confirms that the cell contains the genetic material of the virus. Only after this very specific signal do proteins begin filament formation and destroy both the virus and host DNA in a coordinated manner. This avoids a false response that would be fatal for an uninfected cell.

This mechanism is part of the ‘abortive infection strategy’ employed by many other defence systems, resulting in the death of the infected host. In the case of SPARDA, the decision to perish is highly and precisely regulated, based on a clear signal sequence at the molecular level. This allows bacteria to achieve a delicate balance between self-preservation and community survival – and that’s what SPARDA does in a manner interesting in terms of both fundamental biology and the development of new biotechnologies.

A Driving Force: The Potential for Application

‘The research on bacterial protection systems is developing extremely rapidly, so we felt part of the global race while working on this research. Here, every revealed mechanism is important – both for science and when applied in practical innovations,’ said Dr Zaremba.

In the food industry, this knowledge allows the bacteria used for fermentation to be protected from phage attacks, which can lead to the preservation of the whole batch of cheese or yoghurt. In biotechnology, SPARDA can be used to develop precise nucleic acid detection tools, as this system accurately recognises the virus.

In medicine, where the antibiotic resistance of bacteria is rapidly increasing, there is a growing focus on phage therapy, an alternative approach that can help treat complex infections. For such therapies to be effective, it is necessary to understand the mechanisms that bacteria employ to defend themselves against viruses. The discovery of how SPARDA operates enables scientists to better predict which bacteria can be resistant to phages and assists in the development of more tailored therapeutic strategies.

‘If we want to develop bacteriophages for therapy, we need to understand what defence mechanisms bacteria use. In other words, without knowing the arsenal of enemies, we cannot prepare an effective defence plan,’ concluded the researcher.

The Team That Solved the SPARDA Puzzle

Research into SPARDA was carried out by a large team of researchers at the Life Sciences Center of �۶���Ƶ with different competencies: bioinformatics Prof. Česlovas Venclovas, PhD student Simonas Ašmontas, Algirdas Grybauskas; biochemists Dr Evelina Zagorskaitė, Dr Paulius Toliušis, Dr Arūnas Šilanskas, PhD student Edvinas Jurgelaitis, PhD student Ugnė Tylenytė; immunologist Indrė Dalgėdienė; Dr Elena Manakova, who conducted structural studies, and Dr Marijonas Tutkus and PhD student Aurimas Kopūstas, who conducted single-molecule experiments.

Research supervisor Dr Zaremba revealed that to understand this arsenal, a comprehensive methodological approach was required. ‘Bioinformatics experts used an unusual out-of-the-box protein structures’ analysis to identify the structural region of the beta-relay. Biochemists researched how these proteins recognise viral targets and activate themselves. The methods used to study individual molecules allowed us to observe the SPARDA filament formation in real time, while X-ray crystallography and cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) provided an accurate structural image of the SPARDA protein at the atomic level – what exactly the protein looks like in a inactive state and when its defence mode is activated,’ explained Dr Zaremba.

The research was funded by the Research Council of Lithuania (LMTLT) (S-MIP-24-40, S-MIP-24-58, S-MIP-23-131), Horizon Europe HORIZON-MSCA-2021-SE-01 project FLORIN (101086142), CPVA (01.2.2-CPVA-V-716-01-0001), iNEXT (653706), and the �۶���Ƶ Research Promotion Fund (MSF-JM-20/2023, MSF-JM-05/2024).

�۶���Ƶ will host the Second International Vilnius Neuroscience Conference for Young Researchers on 17–18 April 2026, bringing together young investigators from across the fields of clinical neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry, toxicology, and neuroscience.

The conference is dedicated to students, resident doctors, PhD students, and early-career researchers who are interested in presenting their work, exchanging ideas, and engaging with the international neuroscience community. Alongside invited lectures by experienced scholars, the programme will place a strong emphasis on oral presentations by young researchers.

Separate scientific sessions are planned for neurology, neurosurgery, psychiatry, toxicology, and neuroscience, ensuring focused discussions within each discipline. Awards will be presented to the best speakers in recognition of outstanding research and presentation quality.

and registration are now open.

– Deadline for abstract submission: 22 February 2026
– Conference dates: 17–18 April 2026
– Conference venue: �۶���Ƶ

The registration deadline for abstract presenters is 15 March 2026, while non-presenting participants may register until 31 March 2026. The flat registration fee is €20. Detailed payment information is available through the registration . Young researchers interested in participating are encouraged to submit their abstracts and secure their place in advance. For abstract submission, click , for registration, click .

On Monday, the Ministry of Culture announced the winners of the 2025 National Prize for Culture and Art. Among the six awardees was Architectural Historian Prof. Marija Drėmaitė from the Faculty of History at �۶���Ƶ (VU). She received the prize for broadening the understanding of modern Lithuanian architecture and for her significant contribution to the dissemination of architectural ideas.

‘I am grateful to the Commission for this recognition and for the excellent wording of the award. As I am not a creator of pure art, I view this as recognition for all architectural and art historians, as well as heritage researchers, and as an appreciation of our work as part of Lithuania’s broader cultural and artistic landscape. I would also like to thank the ‘Lapas’ publishing house for nominating me, and �۶���Ƶ for supporting my nomination,’ expressed Prof. Drėmaitė.

The Professor’s research focuses on the history and heritage of 20th-century architecture, the culture and heritage of industrialisation, and the study of modernism. In 2024, Prof. Drėmaitė was awarded the Knight’s Cross of the Order for Merits to Lithuania.

The National Prizes for Culture and Art are awarded each year for the most significant works created by Lithuanian artists and members of the Lithuanian World Community over the past seven years, as well as for outstanding long-term contributions to the country’s culture and arts.

The other recipients of the prize were opera and chamber music performer Giedrė Marija Žebriūnienė (stage name Giedrė Kaukaitė); poet, playwright, essayist, prose writer, and translator Gintaras Grajauskas; theatre and film actor Albinas Kėleris; film director Ignas Miškinis; and painter Laisvydė Šalčiūtė.

The society nominated a total of 46 candidates for the prize this year. The annual award amounts to 800 basic social benefits, which this year equals EUR 56,000. The winners will be honoured on the Day of the Restoration of Lithuania’s Independence.

Over two days, professionals from Arqus member libraries and academic departments will come together to discuss current developments and opportunities in managing and working with heritage collections across the Arqus Alliance university libraries. The event will take place at the Teaching and Learning Centre, Durham University, and online on Teams.

Specific areas that will be covered include:

• The use of heritage and special collections and archives in research
• Heritage and special collections and archives in external and civic engagement
• Digital initiatives in and with special collections and archives
• Conservation and preservation
• Heritage science and the history of the book
• Staff development in heritage collections

Speakers will be from Durham University and other Arqus member institutions. This event is open only to members of all Arqus Alliance universities and is aimed at library staff and any Arqus staff member interested in heritage collections.

For registration, click .

“Astronomers and cosmologists are fortunate to work in a field that inspires great fascination. People want to learn about the universe – it’s their universe,” says Prof. Vicent J. Martínez, a leading Spanish astronomer and cosmologist known for his research on galaxy clustering and the large-scale structure of the universe.

Prof. V. J. Martínez is also a gifted science communicator, recognised for making complex cosmic ideas accessible to the public – a mission he continues during his first visit to Lithuania and to �۶���Ƶ (VU).

Fractals in the Sky: The Hidden Geometry of Galaxies

The first spark that drew him toward astronomy came during his studies as a college mathematics student. He realised that many of the mathematical concepts he was learning could be applied in astronomy.

The professor at the University of Valencia was the first to apply fractals in his field. Although these are often presented as abstract mathematical objects, their imprints can also be found in the universe itself – they act as a window into how matter arranges itself on the grandest scales.

“Mathematical fractals are self-similar objects at all scales. In nature, this scale invariance only occurs within a certain range of distances, and this is precisely what happens with the distribution of galaxies. They are not distributed uniformly but form a cosmic texture, with clusters, filaments, walls, and voids that behave like a fractal at certain scales. However, when considering larger volumes of the universe, galaxies trace a gradual transition to a homogeneous distribution, losing this fractal behaviour,” explains the scientist.

Tabby’s Star Riddle

Prof. V. J. Martínez was one of the authors of the Giant Planet with Trojans theory, which explains the mysterious behaviour of Tabby’s star.

Since its discovery, the Tabby’s Star has been a mystery to scientists. Its light would fade and then intensify without any discernible pattern, even though, in theory, it should have remained stable.

“Tabby’s Star displayed a very strange light curve with deep dips in brightness that appeared to be due to objects passing between the star and the observer, in this case, the Kepler Space Telescope. Our interpretation that it could be a ringed giant planet with clouds of Trojan satellites at the corresponding Lagrange points of its orbit attracted considerable attention. Unfortunately, this hypothesis had to be discarded because the observations predicted by this model never occurred,” says the professor.

Dark Matter Remains Yet Unsolved

Speaking of dark matter – one of the greatest unresolved mysteries in modern physics – the cosmologist emphasises the significance of two papers published more than half a century ago by Estonian and American astronomers.

“Dark matter was postulated almost 100 years ago, but its nature remains unknown. However, the “tipping point” in favour of dark matter was a pair of papers published 51 years ago. The Estonian astronomers Jaan Einasto, Ants Kaasik and Enn Saar and the North American astronomers Jeremiah Ostriker, Jim Peebles and Amos Yahil both published in 1974, each summarising data from many observations where dark matter was needed.

Since then, the search continues, both through astronomical projects that seek to determine astrophysical scenarios where its presence is not only evident but also its characteristics can be determined, and in large particle accelerators such as the LHC at CERN. It is possible that in the future, the Large Hadron Collider, which discovered the Higgs Boson in 2012, may discover an exotic particle compatible with cosmic dark matter. It is also possible that dark matter does not exist, and we would have to revise our cosmological paradigm. Alternative theories exist, but they are not very popular,” says Prof. V. J. Martínez.

The 1.65 m telescope of the Molėtai Astronomical Observatory, Institute of Theoretical Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Physics, �۶���Ƶ. Photo by Andrius Zigmantas.

What Killed the Dinosaurs: Debunking Science Myths

During his visit, Prof. V. J. Martínez gave a public lecture at the VU Faculty of Physics about misconceptions in science. The astronomer views science as no different from other human activities because it operates by the same principle: when an idea is accepted as dogma by the community, it is difficult to overthrow it, regardless of whether it is true or false.

“Our “truth” is just the ideas, which we call theories, hypotheses, models and scenarios, that agree most closely with the results of observations and experiments, at a given moment. Scientists may accept things that they later reject as false,” explains a cosmologist.

Prof. V. J. Martínez challenges the meteorite theory, the most widely known explanation for the extinction of dinosaurs. While the meteorite impact remains widely known, the volcanic hypothesis presents a serious alternative. Massive volcanic eruptions in India occurred around the time of the extinction of the dinosaurs.

“There have been five mass extinctions since life appeared on Earth. We have evidence of extensive volcanic activity in almost all of them. In the last one, 66 million years ago, when the non-avian dinosaurs disappeared, two things happened: an asteroid more than 10 kilometres in diameter struck the Earth, leaving a crater in the Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico, and for hundreds of thousands of years, tremendous volcanic activity was occurring in India. The ejected lava covered an area comparable to France, leaving layers of basalt about 3 kilometres thick – these are now called the Deccan Traps. The fossil record studied by Princeton palaeontologist Gerta Keller shows that the asteroid impact occurred 200,000 years before the extinction, so it could not have been the main cause,” explains the researcher.

Baltic Connections and VU Observatories

During his visit to Lithuania, he visited the VU Molėtai Astronomical Observatory and both VU observatories, where he familiarised himself with both modern equipment and the history of astronomy in Lithuania.

“The three observatories are impressive. I visited them in reverse order of construction, from newest to oldest, but they clearly demonstrate the continuity of interest in astronomy in Lithuania over the centuries,” says Prof. V. J. Martínez.
The cosmologist sees promising opportunities for collaboration with the Astrospectroscopy and Exoplanets group at VU, especially through shared access to observatories in both countries.

“Collaboration with Estonian colleagues has been essential in my scientific career. It was very productive. The collaboration I’ve begun here in Lithuania will surely continue with future research projects involving my group in Valencia and the VU Astrospectroscopy and Exoplanets group in Vilnius,” tells the professor.

The Translational Health Research Institute at �۶���Ƶ’s (VU) Faculty of Medicine has initiated a new research direction focused on sustainable and responsible experimental solutions. Crucially, it draws on animal models in a responsible and scientifically justified fashion. This enables the accurate assessment of complex brain and body functioning mechanisms, providing the opportunity to modify them and develop translational solutions significant for the clinic. Such activities are only possible when a high-quality experimental infrastructure is available.

The new animal laboratory offers these possibilities in particular. It is a modern preclinical research environment operated at the highest standards. It enables researchers to conduct rigorous research that requires precise accuracy and systematic exploration of the functional and anatomical organisation of brain networks, as well as the broader bioelectrical processes throughout the entire body. This creates the preconditions for analysing complex phenomena that, in studies involving humans, would not be legally viable.

Researchers Gediminas Lukšys and Žilvinas Chomanskis (PhD) have played an important role from the outset. They are working closely with Vytautas Baranauskas, the coordinator of the animal laboratory. The first experiments initiated by them confirmed that the vivarium was well prepared to ensure a full cycle of preclinical research, starting with accurate data collection and method validation, through to the development of technological solutions.

According to V. Baranauskas, advanced microclimate control, animal health monitoring, specialised care procedures, and constant veterinary care have been established at the vivarium: “Such solutions allow us to ensure the highest levels of animal welfare, while also guaranteeing the reliability of research findings.”

This infrastructure provides the opportunity to explore new avenues of research while also replicating and building upon existing methodologies. One of these is a recently published study on microstates in rats’ EEGs conducted by the Head of the Centre for Applied Neuroscience, Inga Griškova-Bulanova (PhD) and additional Czech colleagues. According to I. Griškova-Bulanova, for the first time, this work clearly demonstrated that in the animal brain, quick and stable transitions of electrical states are present, and that they are similar to the dynamics in the human brain: “This proves once again that animal models represent a reliable means for researching complex brain activities and creating clinical biomarkers with real translational value.”

The new animal laboratory allows integrated research into brain network dynamics as well as broader bioelectric changes in the entire body, thereby enabling the development of accurate animal models for brain network and neuromodulation research, an analysis of the shifts in bioelectric processes in physiological and pathological conditions, the ability to test and validate new technologies for diagnostics, therapy, and neuromodulation, support for the entire translational path from fundamental mechanisms to clinical innovations.

The development of this consistent research ecosystem at the VU Faculty of Medicine integrates brain studies, body physiology analysis, and the development of medical technologies into a single, unified system oriented towards achieving a real impact on human health. The animal laboratory is becoming a space where future neuroscience and biomedical solutions can be developed.

Photo credit: Leipzig University / Steven Rupp

The eighth meeting of the Arqus Community of Practice Projects Finance Management Offices (CoP PFMO) took place in Leipzig from 25 to 27 November 2025. The community aims to advance project finance management by sharing expertise and building collective knowledge within the European University Alliance and at individual institutions.

The meeting went far beyond simply sharing experiences, providing a platform for in-depth discussions on key aspects of financial audits and reporting. Participants explored European Commission audits, CFS and other external audits, approaches to justifying high-value project expenses and SPA audits. The discussions focused on fostering alignment of practices across institutions, enhancing transparency and jointly developing a comprehensive audit strategy, including preparation for external audits, to strengthen compliance and audit readiness. These points reflect the tangible outcomes and collaborative achievements of the meeting.

In this context, Milena Tamošiūnienė from �۶���Ƶ played a particularly significant role. As the institutional lead responsible for all external project audits at �۶���Ƶ, she drew on her extensive long-term experience to present a comprehensive audit strategy designed to strengthen early error detection, ensure transparency in financial documentation and align internal processes with European Commission requirements. Her contribution offered a clear, structured and highly practical methodology that resonated strongly with participants and supported the broader meeting objective of developing unified approaches across the Arqus alliance.

Dr Olaf Hirschfeld, Head of Internal Auditing at Leipzig University, presented the university’s role as the first-level controller of financial reports in EU projects.

“Meetings like this offer a great opportunity to exchange ideas with finance and project managers from other European universities, identify common challenges and learn from each other,” said Anja Radon from Leipzig University, who organised the meeting.

The meeting strengthened cooperation between Arqus universities in the area of project finance and established a foundation for unifying audit standards. According to PFMO CoP Lead Aleita Markevič, the active participation of every partner was crucial in discussing such a complex topic. Each contribution helped deepen the discussions, share expertise and ensure that all perspectives were considered. It was also significant that this meeting could take place thanks to the support of the Arqus Innovation Fund, whose contribution greatly enhanced the outcomes and enabled a more effective and impactful exchange among partners.

The strategies and best practices developed aim to increase transparency and efficiency in financial audits in the future. The next meeting of the PFMO working group in Graz is already planned for 27–28 May 2026, with the aim of further developing the approaches established in Leipzig and continuing the exchange of experiences.

The participants were welcomed by the VU Vice-Rector for Research, Prof Gintaras Valušis. The essential aspect of his speech was the multifaceted nature of doctoral studies. According to the Vice-Rector, in Lithuania, it is often assumed that perhaps the main path after this level of studies is an academic one. However, in reality, he noted, the spectrum of skills and abilities acquired during the doctoral years can be effectively applied in many different spheres: when creating one’s own business or working in the business sector, in the public sector, in politics, and elsewhere.

After the Vice-Rector, the International Students Affairs Coordinator of the VU Students’ Representation (SA), Uršulė Barkauskaitė, spoke, presenting a new initiative for doctoral students – a programme based on the principle of mentorship, during which senior doctoral students or those who have already completed their studies (not more than seven years ago) help first-year students, who have just stepped onto the path of doctoral studies, to integrate more easily.

Those wishing to register for this programme (both as participants and as mentors) can do so .

The event then continued with a discussion with neuroscientist, LSC Professor Urtė Neniškytė. The conversation was moderated by Doctoral Studies Coordinator Gabija Strumylaitė.

With the professor, who began her academic journey at VU and later continued her doctoral studies at the University of Cambridge (United Kingdom), the discussion centred on the many challenges faced by doctoral students – from the subtleties of time management to relationships with supervisors – and the broad career opportunities after studies. The audience actively engaged in the discussion, asking questions about preparing proposals for research projects, the development of artificial intelligence (AI), or the application of doctoral competencies in the labour market.

“The event was very enjoyable because it helped me to set my mindset for the studies, to get acquainted with some colleagues, and to learn about mentoring opportunities. The most striking and surprising aspect for me was Urtė’s optimistic view of the use of artificial intelligence tools – in her opinion, AI is not capable of replacing either the profession of a researcher or the value of science as an impartial process of explaining reality,” said first-year doctoral student in management, Dovilė Bajoraitė-Dijokienė, reflecting on the Integration Day.

“Coming from mathematics, I found it very interesting to hear a neuroscientist describing how her research works in a laboratory setting. My work is different, as we do not have a laboratory, and our research is mostly about developing new mathematical results or running computer simulations, but I still found many useful principles and strategies that can be applied in mathematics,” said first-year mathematics doctoral student from Italy, Luca Zanardelli.

He also appreciated the warm and supportive atmosphere of the event and noted that the vision of the PhD presented at the beginning of the session – not only as an academic but also as a personal journey – impressed him and made him reflect on what kind of researcher he himself would like to become.

On Friday, 12 December at 9:00 CET, the hybrid webinar “Why Language Learning Still Matters in the Age of AI?” will take place online and in person at �۶���Ƶ.

During the session, Dr Caroline Allen from Leipzig University will explore how language learning continues to shape professional success, personal growth and intercultural understanding, emphasising that technology should be regarded as a tool that enhances – rather than replaces – the language learning process.

Dr Caroline Allen is an instructor at Leipzig University, where she develops and delivers ESP (English for specific purposes) courses for students in the natural sciences. Her work centres on helping learners build confidence and become the English speakers they aspire to be.

For registration, click .

Durham University launches The Global Grand Challenges Studentships (Hunt-Raymond GGC Studentships). This call is for research and researchers aligned to SDG13: Climate Action, for projects that aim to address issues associated with climate change and building a more resilient global future.

• Amount: Payment of full yearly tuition fees (home and overseas rate). Tax-free yearly stipend [UKRI-matched; 2026 value to be confirmed (2025 entry £20,780.00)]
• Year of entry: October 2026.
• Number of awards available: Five.

Eligibility

• 1st or 2:1 undergraduate degree, or relevant comparable experience;
• A strong academic record and research potential;
• A research proposal for a high-quality and manageable PhD project that can be completed within the funded period of 3.5 years, with potential impact in the areas of SDG13: Climate Action;
• Multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary proposals and supervision are encouraged;
• International applicants must meet the University’s entry requirements (e.g. IELTS requirements) with the potential for an ‘unconditional academic offer’ by the deadline.

You are not eligible to apply if you meet one of the following:

• are currently a registered doctoral student;
• are in receipt of/or expecting to be in receipt of any other funding, e.g., from a national government, research council or charity;
• are expecting to be in full-time work during the term of the studentship, if your studentship application is successful.

For more information, click .

An international team of scientists led by Dr Carlos Viscasillas Vázquez, an astrophysicist at �۶���Ƶ's Faculty of Physics, has applied an efficient new method to study the inner disc of the Milky Way. Instead of the traditional approach of observing stellar positions or movements, the researchers analysed their chemical composition. This method not only proved effective but also yielded surprising results that challenge our current understanding of the Galaxy’s structural evolution. According to Dr Viscasillas Vázquez, such studies may become a key tool for mapping the Galaxy in the future.

How to Observe a Galaxy from the Inside?

One century after Edwin Hubble confirmed the existence of galaxies beyond the Milky Way by measuring the distance to Barnard's Galaxy, astronomers are still trying to map the structure of our own. Unlike those distant spirals we see from afar, the Milky Way is much harder to view as a whole, simply because we’re inside it.

“Observing the Galaxy is like standing in the middle of a brightly lit city at night. If you look toward the outskirts, the view is clearer – you can make out individual streets, scattered houses, and the distinct glow of streetlights and cars in motion. But when you turn towards the city centre, everything becomes a blur of overlapping lights, dense buildings, and constant movement — making it hard to separate one structure from another. The same happens when we observe the Milky Way: looking outward, we see more clearly; looking inward, toward the Galactic centre, we face a crowded, complex scene”, explains Dr C. Viscasillas Vázquez.

Milky Way is a spiral galaxy, which means that it is characterized by the bright, curved regions rich in gas, dust, and young stars – those are called spiral arms. Since we are inside the Milky Way, it is not easy to determine the number and extent of the spiral arms, but thanks to various methods, scientists now know more about the spiral structure of our Galaxy.

According to co-author Dr. Laura Magrini, an astronomer at the Arcetri Observatory in Italy, we typically use the terms "outer" and "inner Galaxy" in relation to the Sun's position. The inner spiral arms are those that lie between the Sun's position and the galactic center.

Dr C. Viscasillas Vázquez explains that although the outer arms beyond the Sun have been fairly well studied, the inner arms present challenges. “Dense clouds of dust obscure our view of the Galactic centre, and traditional methods such as stellar density or gas distribution provide only part of the picture”, he says.

But what if there’s another way to map the spiral arms? A method that doesn’t look for stars' locations, movements, or quantity, but rather focuses on what they’re made of?

A New Way to Observe Spiral Arms

An international team of scientists has used high-quality spectroscopic data, which reveal the composition of stars by analysing the light they emit, and traced the inner spiral arms of the Milky Way by studying chemical abundance patterns in stars. The , published in “Astronomy & Astrophysics”, was conducted by scientists from �۶���Ƶ and the Arcetri Astrophysical Observatory in Italy, in close collaboration with teams based in Trieste and Como. This collaboration brought together complementary expertise in stellar spectroscopy, Galactic archaeology, and chemical evolution modelling.

Dr L. Magrini explains that the research was inspired by similar works using data from the “Gaia” mission and the large-scale APOGEE spectroscopic survey, both of which provide detailed information about stellar chemical compositions.

The Gaia-ESO Survey, a public spectroscopic survey carried out with the Very Large Telescope in Paranal (Chile), provided a crucial dataset. Its detailed abundance measurements allowed scientists to go beyond just identifying where stars are – and instead analyze how their chemical compositions vary across space.

Very Large Telescopes at Paranal, Chile. Photo credit: Iztok Boncina, ESO

“There were only very few examples of this type of research before we did it. We didn’t know whether it was going to work with a different data set, but it did. We were even able to see the spirals from another perspective for the first time – in a vertical view”, adds Dr C. Viscasillas Vázquez.

The result was astonishing. Dr Magrini notes that although the number of stars is not very high, therefore the arms are not visible as overdensities of stars. By applying a technique that allows us to see even small differences in chemical abundances, they clearly emerged.

Stars’ “Chemical Fingerprints”

“Stars act as chemical time capsules. Their compositions reflect the gas clouds from which they were born, and those gas clouds were themselves enriched by previous generations of stars. Iron and magnesium, for example, are released into the Galaxy by different types of supernovae – events where stars explode and scatter elements into space. By studying their ratios, astronomers can trace star formation patterns and the chemical evolution of the Milky Way over time”, says VU astrophysicist.

The scientists created spatial maps of chemical abundance variations across the inner disc of the Galaxy. These maps revealed regions with higher iron content and lower magnesium-to-iron ratios – signs that aligned with the known positions of the Scutum and Sagittarius, two major inner spiral arms.

Remarkably, the researchers also detected a “spur” – a chemical bridge between the two arms. This substructure hints at more complex dynamical processes at play in the inner Galaxy than previously thought.

“In other galaxies, we observe the well-defined arms, while others look more intertwined or appear to intersect. The arms may have several branches/tributaries, they branch like rivers into their tributaries or as highways into secondary roads or even bridges connecting them”, compares Dr. C. Viscasillas Vázquez.

More Than Just Maps

According to scientists, the implications go beyond simply redrawing a map of the Milky Way. By comparing their observations with 2D chemical evolution models developed in recent years by Emanuele Spitoni, researcher at Trieste Astronomical Observatory and collaborators, researchers confirmed that the spiral arms are not just structural features – they also influence the chemical makeup of the Galaxy.

“In the model I developed with my colleagues, the arms are split into three parts. They all rotate at different speeds, and as they pass through the disc – the place where most of the stars, gas, and dust are found – they boost star formation, as shown by variations in the distribution of different chemical elements. If the strands and the disc itself are spinning at the same speed, the chemical elements change faster.

Messier 101 – a spiral galaxy in the constellation of the Big Dipper. The photo was taken at the Tenerife Observatory with a 1-meter telescope. Photo credit: Carlos Viscasillas Vázquez and Rytis Babianskas

Recent computer simulations have allowed astrophysicists to reconstruct the chemical evolution of the Galaxy over the past billion years. So far, these are the most accurate models matching the results from the Gaia-ESO survey.

“This result highlights the close connection between the dynamics and chemistry of stellar populations. Spiral arms enhance star formation and leave chemical signatures behind. By detecting these patterns, we can better understand the Milky Way’s structure and evolution. We were particularly inspired by the work of Eloisa Poggio and her collaborators, who traced the spiral structure of the local and outer arms using Gaia GSP-Spec chemical data. Our study complements that effort by using Gaia-ESO Survey data, which allows us to peer deeper into the inner Galaxy – a region that remains challenging to observe due to dust extinction”, explains Dr C. Viscasillas Vázquez.

The future of galactic cartography
The research proves that spiral arms – especially in the inner Galaxy – can be revealed not only by star locations and their movements but by what they contain. This provides new and valuable insight into our understanding of the Milky Way’s structure.

“The method, based on chemical data, allows us to revisit an age-old question from a new perspective. It’s like tracing the invisible architecture of the Galaxy through the elemental fingerprints left behind by stars. As we look ahead to future surveys with even greater coverage and precision, the use of chemical abundances may become an essential part of Galactic cartography”, concludes Dr C. Viscasillas Vázquez.

Arqus announces the second webinar in its English-Medium Instruction (EMI) Seminar Series for the academic year 2025–26, which is run by Maynooth University. The topic of this year’s series is effective assessment in English-taught programmes and classes. Titled “Inclusive assessment in EMI: Linguistically accessible and diversified”, this webinar will be delivered by Alicia Salomone and Ludmila Kalasnikova from the Universidad de Chile. It will take place online on Thursday, 11 December 2025, from 12:00 to 13:00 (CET). 

This webinar will introduce “language-light” assessment approaches that are designed to reduce linguistic demands on EMI students while preserving content-focused academic standards. Participants will explore practical alternatives to traditional written assignments and learn how small intentional adjustments can meaningfully enhance fairness and inclusion in EMI contexts. Grounded in strategies developed for the EMI professional development course at the Universidad de Chile, the webinar will provide concrete, adaptable techniques that educators can implement across a wide range of disciplines. By the end of the session, participants will be encouraged to reflect on their own assessment practices and identify opportunities to design assessment tasks that are more accessible, equitable and linguistically inclusive.

Speakers 

Professor Alicia Salomone is a full professor in the Department of Literature at the Faculty of Philosophy and Humanities and currently works as the director of the International Office at the Universidad de Chile’s Rectory. She holds a PhD in Hispanic-American literature from the Universidad de Chile and a master’s in global Englishes from the University of Southampton, along with a TESOL certificate from Trinity College London. As head of the university’s internationalisation strategy, Alicia has led key initiatives to enhance students’ global learning experiences and academic careers by promoting international cooperation and intercultural awareness. Her research interests include internationalisation of higher education, language policy and contemporary Hispanic-American literature with a focus on identity, migration and cultural memory.

Ludmila Kalasnikova is the EMI programme coordinator at the Online Education Office under the Vice-Presidency of Information Technologies at the Universidad de Chile. She holds a master’s in education from Daugavpils University and a master’s in applied linguistics from the University of Southampton, along with CELTA and TKT certificates. In her current role, Ludmila is responsible for developing and implementing a professional teacher training course related to the internationalisation of curriculum. Her research interests include EMI methodology, the role of English as a lingua franca in higher education and the design of EMI teacher professional development programmes.

Participation in the webinar is free, but registration is required. For registration, click .

With the 2026 call, we continue supporting such university-created R&D solutions that contribute to one or more of the 17 goals of the , which focuses on the implementation of the green transition and climate neutrality in the long run.

Vice-Rector of �۶���Ƶ, Prof. Ginataras Valušis, emphasises that this Innovation Fund call is an important tool to strengthen the maturity of solutions developed at the university and promote their real impact.

“Innovations created at the university often start with a bold idea that needs an additional boost to become applicable in business or to meet the needs of society. By allocating funds for the development of technological maturity of R&D solutions, we encourage initiatives that are likely to reveal the potential for the applicability of science-based ideas, while taking into account the aspects of environmental, social and economic sustainability. The latter are important for the university, as the university and its community consistently and purposefully seek to contribute to sustainable development, creating a society that is responsible for the environment, society and the region,” says the Vice-Rector.

The application deadline is the 6th of February, 2026. The sum of 5,000 to 20,000 EUR can be awarded to one application. Duration of application activities – 12 (18) months. Selected applications will be financed at the beginning of 2026.

More information about the university’s Innovation Fund call can be found on the .

If you have any questions about this call, please contact the Innovation Office for more information:  or by phone 8 5 2687017.

�۶���Ƶ (VU) scientists are working on a project that may advance cancer diagnostics. In order to develop highly sensitive biosensors, one of the most effective methods in material science is applied – Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering, SERS. The project is led by Professor Valdas Šablinskas from the Institute of Chemical Physics at VU Faculty of Physics.

“The goal of the project is to develop a controllable and scalable plasma nanotechnology to fabricate plasmonic nanomaterials-enhanced SERS sensors for low-cost, rapid, sensitive, and reliable detection of cancer spectroscopic biomarkers. Partners in Taiwan, employing strongly ionised gases, have developed a new method for producing surfaces that amplify the Raman scattering signal more effectively than conventional plasmonic surfaces. At the beginning of December, the plasmonic surfaces required for this project have already arrived from Taiwan and are ready for the studies,” VU Prof. V. Šablinskas says.

The SERS method, using plasmonic surfaces obtained from Taiwan, will enable much more precise analysis. The Raman scattering spectrum is directly linked to the molecular vibrations. The frequencies of these vibrations depend on the strength of the chemical bonds within the molecule and the atoms that compose it, providing valuable insights into molecular structure.

“This method is particularly valuable for the study of biological tissues, as all biological cells are composed of molecules. When molecules are adsorbed onto a metallic substrate or the surface of metal colloidal nanoparticles, conditions can be formed for the excitation of surface plasmons that, in turn, enhance Raman scattering. Surface plasmons arise when light interacts with the free electrons on a metal surface, causing fluctuations in their density. If the frequency of the light wave coincides with the oscillation frequency, resonance occurs. This resonance produces an intensified electromagnetic field at the metal surface, greatly increasing the Raman scattering of the nearby molecules. Using such surfaces can amplify the Raman signal by up to tens of millions of times, providing highly sensitive and accurate insights into the structure of the molecular systems under study,” Prof. V. Šablinskas explains.

The Lithuania-Taiwan project “Plasma-Engineered Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Sensors for Sensitive and Selective Detection of Cancer Biomarkers” is being conducted by physicists Prof. V. Šablinskas, Dr Rimantė Bandzevičiūtė, Dr Sonata Adomavičiūtė-Grabusovė, together with Dr Martynas Talaikis from VU Life Sciences Center and Prof. Arūnas Želvys from VU Hospital Santaros Clinics and National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST).

‘Today, we are awarding three solutions that come the closest to practical implementation; they were submitted by ‘IT Logika’, ‘Teltonika’, and ‘Dangaus Šviesos’,’ said Edvinas Grikšas, Minister of the Economy and Innovation, on Monday.
As reported by the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation, the first stage will conclude with each enterprise receiving EUR 100 thousand, and at the second stage, a call to further develop the ideas will be announced.

The focus of the system created by VU, together with the companies, is on fixed-wing aircraft that can operate at high altitudes and on fast, low-altitude aircraft. An integrated laser-optical sensor would allow targets to be detected and recognised at any time of day, and a high-power laser could safely shoot down multiple balloons during the same flight. Object trajectory prediction and recognition would be carried out using artificial intelligence algorithms. Real-time information would be provided by DBOX drone base stations, radars, and other geographically distributed sensors.

‘We are pleased that enterprises have recognised the experience and expertise of �۶���Ƶ researchers, which will enable us to strengthen interdisciplinary and inter-institutional cooperation by developing a solution which is currently crucial for the public,’ said Prof. Rimantas Vaicekauskas, Director of the Institute of Computer Science of VU Faculty of Mathematics and Informatics.

The ‘Teltonika EMS’ consortium, consisting of ‘ADV Defense’, ‘Quantum Systems’, and ‘Defsecintel’, intends to create an autonomous airspace and border surveillance and protection system that will operate 24/7 to detect and identify air threats – balloons and drones – around the clock, and when necessary, destroy targets. Using Lithuanian-made takeover drones, the system would combine sensors, unmanned aerial vehicles, and control centres to create a single operational view which would be gradually transmitted to Lithuanian institutions.

The consortium represented by ‘Dangaus Šviesos’ is set to develop ‘Dobis’ – a dirigible-based balloon interception system. This system would integrate various technologies to bring down illegal balloons to the ground in a safe manner.

His broader interests concern nationalism and cultural history in the Habsburg, Romanov, Hohenzollern, and Ottoman Empires, as well as their successor states. He is the director of the Antipodean East European Study Group.

We invite you to attend the associate professor’s lectures:

1 Dec. 17.00: “Linguistic Panslavism in the Habsburg State Apparatus”, room 314AB;
3 Dec. 9.45: “Vladimir Putin, Normative Isomorphism, and the Language/Dialect Dichotomy”, Institute of International Relations and Political Science at �۶���Ƶ, 303 room;
4 Dec. 17.00: “The Myth of Circassian Beauty: Chauvinism, Racism and Sexual Fantasy”, room 118 (Krėvės);
5 Dec. 15.00: “Restoring Polylingual nationalism to East-Central European Historiography: Hungary as a case study”, Room 314AB;
8 Dec. 17.00: Debate “Limits of linguistic agnosticism” (with researchers from the Faculty of Philology at �۶���Ƶ, Assoc. Prof. Vladimir Panov and Assoc. Prof. Vuk Vukotić), “Donelaitis” room;
9 Dec. 17.00: “National Uniforms, Sartorial Sovereignty, and Democratisation”, room 314AB.

Among the principal items on the agenda, the rectors examined the strategic and financial framework for the Alliance’s next phase. They also considered the possibility of establishing a legal entity for Arqus, a step that would have strengthened its institutional identity and supported long-term sustainability. The meeting also provided an occasion to introduce Paloma Fernández Torres, who assumed her position as the new Arqus Secretary General on 1 October.

In addition, preparations for the 2026 Arqus Annual Conference at Maynooth University were reviewed, with discussions highlighting its connection to the forthcoming Irish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. A dedicated session also explored the role of the Alliance’s associate partners – Durham University and the National University of Kyiv-Mohyla Academy.

These key meetings of the Rectors were followed by a meeting of the Task Force established to prepare the next Erasmus+ funding application, as well as meetings of the co-leads of the various working groups to plan the remaining months leading up to the completion of their objectives.

Venice International University is a unique consortium of 23 universities and research institutions from around the world – including the University of Padua – with an autonomous campus located on San Servolo Island, in the heart of the Venetian Lagoon.

�۶���Ƶ (VU) launches a call “My First Research Team” for young researchers to apply for group leader positions. The programme offers an opportunity for 26 young scientists to establish their first independent research group and implement an original research project. The expected start date of project activities is no later than 1 September 2026.

Selected researchers will receive a fixed-term full-time appointment of up to three years and will receive funding of up to EUR 350,000. The grant will cover salaries of the group leader and team members as well as project implementation costs. Group leaders will be expected to carry out a research project related to Lithuania’s Smart Specialisation priority fields ().

Eligible candidates should hold a PhD obtained within the past seven years (till application deadline). This period does not include maternity, paternity or parental leave, or long-term sick-leave. Eligibility criteria - by the application deadline, candidates must not have acted as principal investigators of projects funded by the Research Council of Lithuania under the measures and programmes listed in the call.

Applications will be assessed based on scientific achievements and potential, quality, originality and feasibility of the proposed research, and its compatibility with the research activities and infrastructure of the chosen Faculty at VU. Evaluation will also consider evidence of scientific excellence, mentoring, expert engagement and dissemination of results.

 till 20 January 2026 15:00 CET. Applications received after deadline will not be evaluated.

Personal data will be processed solely for the purpose of informing you about the call, related events and evaluation of proposals, and retained no longer than 1 September 2026. Consent may be withdrawn at any time.

Information day on the call and application form to be held on 10 December 2025 14:00 CET via .

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