Founded in 2005, the Latvian Association of Young Researchers (LJZA) is the leading organisation in Latvia dedicated to advocating for PhD candidates and early career researchers. Their mission is to unite young scholars across various disciplines, both nationally and abroad, to foster a vibrant academic community. Their key focus areas are:
Science Policy and Advocacy. Their members engage in policy-making and advocate for the rights of early-career researchers and PhD candidates. As a strategic partner of the Ministry of Education and Science, LJZA plays a vital role in the development of legislation and provides essential feedback on academic and scientific policies in Latvia. Their efforts are strengthened by the international experience of our members, who have completed PhDs or postdoctoral research abroad. This global perspective enables us to amplify the voices of young researchers, ensuring their concerns and rights are represented in policy discussions and leveraging our extensive professional network to support their interests. LJZA also advocates for academic ethics and research integrity at the national level to ensure safe and fair conditions for researchers, strengthen their understanding of their rights, and promote good research practices.
Professional Development and Networking. LJZA provides opportunities for professional growth and networking to enhance career trajectories. They organise a variety of events to foster connections within the academic community and beyond. These include monthly open board meetings, held online or in a hybrid format, regular post-work gatherings, weekend hikes, and our annual summer school. These events not only allow our members to network but also offer opportunities for the wider community to engage with and learn about our work.
Science Communication. LJZA is committed to enhancing public understanding of science through articles, interviews, videos, and participation in public events.
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