About the START campaign

The most talented young scientists need support at the start of their research career.

Research success requires years of hard work and sacrifices. But passion, a desire to understand the world, ambition and talent motivate many young people to pursue the scientific profession. These are the people we have been seeking out for years, selecting them with great care, supporting them on their scientific path—and then, over the years, tracking their accomplishments with pride and joy.

Some incentive is needed at the crucial stage in the life of every scientist, when they decide whether to continue their research work or abandon it. And this doesn’t mean just a decent salary. It’s also vital to say, “You’re heading in the right direction. You’re asking the right questions.” This is the role of the START stipends. Apart from money, we offer a prestigious distinction—often the first important recognition a young scientist receives. We value the efforts already made by stipend winners and motivate them to continue their work.

Sharing financial support for the START programme is an opportunity to offer young people a tangible vote of confidence. We can persuade them that while continuing at the university or taking up work in a research institute, they can also achieve their personal and professional goals. Any contribution, however modest, to future START programme stipend winners is meaningful to us.

Thanks to your support, we will be able to continue assisting the best applicants. Together we will create better working conditions for young scientists, and maybe spur them on to achieve success worthy of a Nobel Prize.

All of the funds collected will be distributed to laureates of the programme. The Foundation will continue to cover all administrative costs.