In 2025, the European Young Chemists’ Network (EYCN) conducted a Europe-wide survey to explore the professional landscape, challenges, and aspirations of young chemists. The survey collected insights on education, career paths, funding, professional development, work–life balance, and inclusion, capturing the perspectives of students and early-career researchers across Europe. The findings provide a data-driven snapshot to support future actions, policies, and advocacy for young chemists at national and European levels.
Governments, Fundings and Decisions
The survey results show a clear message: governments play a decisive role in supporting young chemists across Europe. Structural barriers related to funding, career stability, and professional development are key policy priorities. Research funding emerges as the most pressing issue, with 69% of respondents identifying increased research funding and financial support as the most important government action, while 62% describe securing funding as difficult or very difficult. Limited funding, high competition, and complex application procedures restrict research output, increase stress levels and hinder long-term career planning. Expanding early-career funding schemes, simplifying application processes, and offering longer funding periods could significantly improve stability and research continuity.
Career Building
Another important issue is career development. Better programs are demanded by 56% of respondents, and 48% consider they have not yet achieved their career goals, indicating uncertainty around job stability and progression. Governments can address this by supporting transparent career structures, expanding postdoctoral and transition grants, and promoting longer-term contracts. The survey also highlights gaps in mentorship and skills development: 21% of respondents report having no access to mentorship, and 48% indicate they have not received meaningful guidance. Many express strong interest in training in leadership, project management, grant writing, and communication. Government-supported mentorship frameworks and professional development programs, embedded within institutions, could help bridge this gap.
Mobility trends underscore the need for coordinated European action. Relocation to another country for better opportunities drives 65% of the young chemists, for career and financial reasons. Strengthening stable opportunities across Europe would help retain talent and reduce forced mobility driven by insecurity.
The results presented here offer an initial overview of key themes emerging from the EYCN survey, with further analysis to be shared in the coming months.
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