On October 15, 2024, the inaugural meeting of the International Scientific Advisory Board (ISAB) for the ROBOPROX project convened via Zoom, marking a significant milestone in the initiative focused on robotics and advanced industrial production. The meeting brought together a diverse group of experts from various prestigious institutions, along with project board members and group leaders, fostering a collaborative environment to discuss progress, share insights, and outline future directions.
A highlight of the meeting was a presentation by 12 young researchers who shared innovative achievements within the ROBOPROX project. Zdeněk Hanzálek also provided an overview of the project’s objectives and goals, setting the stage for the researchers to showcase their work. The presentations not only demonstrated the project’s advancements but also highlighted the potential of emerging talent in the field.
The discussion part of the meeting delved into two critical topics – strategies for hiring postdoctoral researchers and PhD students, and insights into managing large academic projects. The board highlighted the importance of forming small, collaborative teams of PhD students and postdocs and encouraging diversity, particularly by increasing the participation of women. They also emphasized selecting creative, curiosity driven and independent candidates. Regular in-person meetings were recommended to boost team dynamics, alongside a mentorship program linking the most talented students with global experts. To enhance opportunities for growth, the board suggested facilitating participation in events such as seminars, conferences or exchanges and offering short-term sabbaticals to foster relationships and potentialcollaboration in the future.
Many thanks to the ISAB members for their valuable suggestions aimed at enhancing collaboration and fostering an inclusive research environment, and look forward to meeting them again next year in autumn 2025.