The Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF) of Cyprus is presenting an exciting opportunity for Cypriot enterprises to enhance their competitiveness through innovative solutions. The new cycle of the "PHD IN INDUSTRY/1123" program, with a budget of €1.75 million and a maximum funding of €150,000 per project, aims to develop pioneering solutions that strengthen the business sector in Cyprus.

The RIF announced that the program offers Cypriot businesses the chance to employ doctoral-level students for the implementation of research and innovation projects. These projects are expected to yield solutions that meet societal needs and boost the businesses' competitiveness.

Proposals for the program can be submitted through the RIF's IRIS portal, with the deadline set for March 29, 2024. This initiative not only supports the development of a research and development department within businesses by hiring new specialized talents or enhancing their existing staff but also opens employment opportunities outside the academic realm for the new generation of researchers. It facilitates the channeling of the country's scientific talent into the real economy.

The program prioritizes proposals that have not previously received funding from RIF or European programs since 2016, focusing particularly on medium and large enterprises. According to the RIF, the project content must align with the business activities, be consistent with the doctoral thesis of the researcher, and fall within the scientific fields of Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Engineering. Proposals may also include applications of social and humanitarian sciences in these areas.

Selected entities for funding will automatically gain access to the Foundation's complimentary support services for innovation and knowledge transfer, further enhancing the value of this initiative.