1st SCAR-Engage Forum Advances European Agri Research
The 1st SCAR-Engage Forum, organised within the RefreSCAR initiative, marked a significant milestone in bringing together the Standing Committee on Agricultural Research (SCAR) community in one place. Held on 22–23 April in Zadar, the Forum gathered members from 11 countries, including Plenary delegates, experienced SCAR Working Group/Task Force members, and both new and alumni participants of the SCAR-Engage Programme.
A Forum of Connection: Sharing Insights, and Integrating Newcomers
Designed as a platform for connection and collaboration, the Forum provided a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge, strengthen networks, and collectively shape the future of European agricultural research and innovation. Participants engaged in peer-to-peer discussions, shared insights for effective involvement in SCAR activities, and explored opportunities and barriers to active engagement in Working Group/Task Force activities. The event also offered support for newcomers, helping them integrate into the SCAR ecosystem and build meaningful professional connections.
The Forum was officially opened with welcome remarks from Orsolya Frizon Somogyi (European Commission, DG AGRI) and Hans-Joerg Lutzeyer (European Commission, DG Research and Innovation), followed by a warm address from Zvjezdan Penezić (Vice-Rector for Science at the University of Zadar). Participants gained insights into the RefreSCAR project, presented by its coordinator, Órlaith Ní Choncubhair, as well as the SCAR-Engage Programme, introduced by Marina Arnaut Stefanović (WP lead). Further enriching the discussions, experienced SCAR members Vivi Hunecke Nielsen, Ákos Kristóf, and Luka Juvančič shared their perspectives and personal experiences of engagement within SCAR.
SCAR-Engage Forum: Launch of Cohort 3
A key impression of the Forum was the official launch of the third year of the SCAR-Engage Programme, bringing together, for the first time, participants across all programme cohorts.
Co-located with the BIOEAST Bioeconomy Conference 2026 and Bioeconomy Week, the Forum expanded its reach to a broader network, particularly across Central and Eastern Europe.
A strong takeaway from the event was the clear interest in sustaining this momentum. Participants expressed a preference for continued collaboration through future in-person gatherings, particularly in synergy with events such as the BIOEAST Conference.
The SCAR-Engage Programme, as a core initiative of RefreSCAR, is designed to support new members of SCAR Working Groups and Task Forces, with a particular focus on participants from underrepresented or less visible countries. By providing knowledge, mentorship, and networking opportunities, the Programme facilitates their active participation and smooth integration into SCAR activities, while contributing to increased country-level visibility.
Running annually from 2024 to 2027, each SCAR-Engage cohort lasts 12 months and is complemented by follow-up activities. While the first cohort has successfully concluded and the second is currently underway, the third cohort has now been officially launched. A fourth Call for Expressions of Interest is expected to open soon, with further details to be announced on official SCAR and RefreSCAR communication channels.