Over the past two years, the EYCN Board, led by Chair Claudia Bonfio, alongside Secretary Tomasz Swebocki, Treasurer Nathan Carpentier, and Team Leaders, has worked to strengthen connections within the European young chemist community. Monja Schilling (Science), Sara Tortorella (Networks), Chrysanthi Papadimou (Membership), Gaia De Angelis (Global Connections), and Noah Al-Shamery (Communication) have driven initiatives, with guidance from Past-Chair Maximilian Menche.
The EYCN Board has enhanced communication with Delegates and expanded social media outreach. A key achievement was increasing visibility through conference participation. EYCN strengthened collaborations with national societies, including KNCV at the 18th DA in The Hague and RSC at the 19th DA in London. Another collaboration is underway with ČSCH for the 20th DA in Prague. EYCN revised its internal rules, strengthened ties with the European Institute for Industrial Leadership, and secured a partnership with Elsevier to support young chemists. The Young Observer Programme was revitalized, ensuring young chemists’ voices are heard in EuChemS divisions and task groups.
Science Team
The Science Team fosters enthusiasm for chemistry and STEM through competitions. In 2023, we organized the Chemistry Rediscovered video competition with the Wilkinson Foundation, themed “Bringing the Sustainable Development Goals to Life.” The 2024 Photochimica competition focused on “Elements in Chemistry.” We also released podcast episodes on science policy, communication, and emerging technologies, with a new project, What Should Stick?, in development.
Networks Team
The Networks Team advances EYCN’s visibility and networking opportunities. The webinar series What Can I Be with a PhD? provided career guidance and skills development. Strategic partnerships with initiatives like COST Actions and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions promoted interdisciplinary collaboration on topics like mental health and mentoring. The social campaign X for Chemists raises awareness of key issues, supported by strong collaboration across EYCN Teams.
Membership Team
The EYCN website has been updated, with further enhancements planned. Over 12 Delegate rotations were recorded, emphasizing network dynamism. A new onboarding process helps new Delegates integrate smoothly. The team is also reaching out to non-associated countries to foster greater international collaboration.
Global Connections Team
The video series Eurospectives connects young chemists by exploring diverse viewpoints on science and academia, including sustainability, teaching, and cultural barriers. Glospectives expands the focus beyond Europe, featuring interviews with chemists who have moved abroad or remained in their home countries, exploring career and life impacts.
Communication Team
Our LinkedIn and Instagram presence has grown significantly. Initiatives like the EYCN Weekly Quiz, EYCN Career Compass for PhD and postdoc opportunities, and Instagram Takeovers have strengthened connections. By collaborating with member societies’ social media officers, we continue expanding our reach—stay tuned for more exciting projects!
