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Early Career Reserachers are the driving force behind the future of science. At Utrecht Life Sciences (ULS), the Young Investigator Associations bring together early to mid-career researchers from across the diverse knowledge institutions at Utrecht Science Park. These researchers play a crucial role in shaping the academic ecosystem, not only through their innovative research, but also by providing a collective voice in decision-making processes. To ensure their perspectives are heard, a Young Investigator representative is a member of the Life Sciences Board.

The associations organize a wide range of activities, both shared and faculty-specific, that strengthen the Life Sciences community. These include onboarding initiatives, platforms for exchanging knowledge and resources, and opportunities to foster collaboration across disciplines. In this way, they help young researchers to build networks, develop skills, and accelerate scientific progress.

Recognizing their pivotal role, the Scientific and Managing Director of Utrecht Life Sciences meets regularly with representatives of the Young Investigator Associations. Together, they identify and address key challenges such as improving inter-institute connections, creating incentives for collaboration, closing communication gaps, increasing visibility, and reducing bureaucratic barriers.

• The Science for Life Young Investigator Forum (YIF) represents assistant and associate group leaders at the faculties of Science and Veterinary Sciences.
• The represents assistant and associate professor level faculty at the UMC Utrecht.
• The Hubrecht Young Faculty Association represents junior group leaders and more senior group leaders (who still feel young enough to join the YFA) at the Hubrecht Institute