The MATCH project has successfully concluded its 2025 recruitment campaign, filling all 13 Doctoral Candidate (DC) positions through eight competitive calls. This achievement marks a major milestone in assembling a diverse and talented research team.
Eight Calls, One Goal
The recruitment journey began with the first call, which filled five positions, although one candidate later withdrew. Subsequent calls gradually closed the remaining gaps, with the final position (DC 4) secured in the eighth call. In total:
- First call: 5 positions filled (one later withdrawn)
- Second call: 4 positions filled
- Fourth call: 2 positions filled
- Fifth and sixth calls: DC 6 and DC 12 filled
- Eighth call: Final position filled
Global Reach and Interest
MATCH attracted 371 applicants from 46 countries, demonstrating strong international interest. Asia dominated the applicant pool with 283 candidates (76%), led by Pakistan (130 applicants), India (67), Iran (35), and China (20). Europe contributed 39 applicants, Africa 33, South America 11, and North America 5.
Gender Balance: A Key Achievement
While the overall applicant pool was predominantly male (78.2%), female participation improved significantly in later calls, rising from 20% in early rounds to over 40% in the final calls. The final recruitment outcome achieved near parity: 7 male and 6 female candidates. This is a remarkable result given the global trend in ICT disciplines, where women represent only about 22% of doctoral graduates in the EU. By ensuring equal opportunities during selection, MATCH sets a strong example for diversity and inclusion in research. Gender balance enriches collaboration, brings varied perspectives to innovation, and strengthens the overall impact of scientific work.
A Truly International Cohort
The 13 selected candidates represent countries including Argentina, Belgium, China, France, Greece, India, Italy, Turkey, and Russia. India leads with three candidates, followed by France and Argentina with two each. This diversity underscores MATCH’s vision of fostering a global research environment.