The SECURE2 project will be presented at the Annual Conference of the Marie Curie Alumni Association (MCAA), taking place in Brussels from 22 to 25 April 2026. This year’s conference, titled „Research careers beyond borders: 30 years of the MSCA“, marks the 30th anniversary of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) and brings together key stakeholders from across the European Research Area to reflect on the future of research careers in Europe.
Within the conference programme, SECURE2 will be featured in the parallel session „Sustainable Research Careers: Frameworks for the Future“, scheduled for Friday, 24 April, at 09:00.
This parallel session will be moderated by Nicolas Defaye, Policy Officer.
Speakers of the session:
🔹 Dario Capezzuto, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, European Commission
🔹 Judith Litjens, COST Association – European Cooperation in Science and Technology
🔹 Carolina Varela, ICORSA
The session will address one of the most pressing challenges in the European research landscape: the transition from temporary and precarious employment structures towards sustainable and attractive research career models. By drawing on insights from key European initiatives and projects, including SECURE, SECURE2, and CCA, as well as the ResearchComp competence framework, the discussion will explore how systemic change in research career frameworks can be achieved.
A particular focus will be placed on the design of future tenure-track models and the necessary shift in mindset for early-career researchers. The discussion aims to bridge the gap between regional implementation practices and broader European strategic objectives, while highlighting the importance of transferable skills and stable career structures that enable researchers to thrive in an increasingly diverse and intersectoral labour market.
A dedicated SECURE2 project booth will also be available at the conference, offering attendees the opportunity to learn more about the project and its activities.
The conference will open with a keynote speech by the European Commissioner for Startups, Innovation and Research, Ekaterina Zaharieva.
SECURE2’s participation in this high-level event underscores the project’s continued contribution to European efforts aimed at improving research career frameworks and promoting more sustainable, inclusive, and future-oriented research environments across Europe.
Learn more and register to attend: https://www.mariecuriealumni.eu/events/mcaa-annual-conference-2026
