Learning across the borders: exchange of experience in supporting Horizon Europe participants during a visit to TÜBİTAK (Day 2)
On 11 June 2026, the second day of the study visit of the representatives of Horizon Europe Office in Ukraine, the National Research Foundation of Ukraine, to the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Türkiye (TÜBİTAK) took place.
The programme of the second day focused on practical mechanisms for supporting researchers, innovation organisations and applicants to the Horizon Europe Programme, as well as on the role of the National Contact Point (NCP) network in providing high-quality support to participants throughout all stages of project preparation and implementation.
During the first thematic session, TÜBİTAK representatives presented Türkiye’s approaches to the use of instruments under the Widening Participation and Strengthening the European Research Area (WIDERA) programme. Participants discussed support mechanisms for research institutions, researchers and innovation organisations aimed at strengthening research capacity, fostering international partnerships and enhancing integration into the European Research Area.
Particular attention was devoted to Türkiye’s experience in supporting applicants to the European Research Council (ERC) calls. Turkish colleagues presented the national system of advisory support, applicant preparation schemes and additional incentive mechanisms that contribute to increasing the competitiveness and success rate of Turkish applicants in ERC calls.
As part of the study visit, the Ukrainian delegation also visited the Middle East Technical University Center for Solar Energy Research and Applications (METU-GÜNAM), one of Türkiye’s most advanced and comprehensive research infrastructures in the field of solar energy. Established in 2009 on the initiative of the Middle East Technical University (METU), the centre conducts cutting-edge research in solar technologies, materials science and renewable energy. During the visit, the Office specialists were introduced to the centre’s research laboratories, key areas of scientific activity and participation in international research projects, including those funded under European Union programmes. The visit provided a valuable opportunity to exchange experience on the development of modern research infrastructures and their role in supporting innovation and international scientific cooperation.
During the final session, the delegation explored opportunities offered by networking projects and other technical assistance instruments available to Horizon Europe participants. Special attention was paid to support services for project coordinators that can be used at various stages of proposal preparation, submission and project implementation.
The study visit concluded with a summary of the key outcomes and discussions on prospects for future cooperation between the Ukrainian and Turkish sides. Representatives of both organisations confirmed their interest in continuing the exchange of experience, strengthening professional contacts between the NCP networks and working together to increase the participation of the research and innovation community in Horizon Europe.
The knowledge and good practices gained during the visit will serve as a valuable foundation for the further development of support services for Horizon Europe participants in Ukraine and will contribute to the deeper integration of the Ukrainian research and innovation community into the European Research Area.
