A New Chapter for National Research

The terms of office for the current heads of thirteen research institutions within the HUN-REN network are set to expire at the end of 2026. To ensure a future defined by excellence and international connectivity, the network is transitionng to an open, global selection process.

The first phase of this recruitment began today and covers four major centers:

* HUN-REN Biological Research Centre (Szeged)
* HUN-REN Institute for Nuclear Research (Debrecen)
* HUN-REN Wigner Research Centre for Physics (Budapest)
* HUN-REN Institute of Earth Physics and Space Science (Sopron)

The deadline for these initial applications is May 31, 2026, with the successful candidates expected to take up their roles no later than January 1, 2027.

Seeking World-Class Expertise

As Hungary’s flagship research organization, HUN-REN is a massive operation comprising 15 institutions and over 5,000 employees, including roughly 3,400 researchers. The network spans a vast array of disciplines across STEM, life sciences, and frontier research.

The search is targeting both Hungarian and international researchers who possess distinguished scientific records and extensive leadership experience. These new Director Generals will be tasked with shaping strategic directions and improving the innovation performance of their respective institutions.

To ensure maximum visibility, the calls are being published in premier global journals, including Nature and Science.

Leadership Perspectives

Balázs Gulyás, President of HUN-REN, emphasized that the shift to international recruitment is about quality and competitiveness.

"Our objective is clear: to appoint Director Generals who can further strengthen scientific performance and inject new momentum into our development," he stated, noting that a broader candidate pool ensures the selection of the most qualified professionals.

Roland Jakab, CEO of the network, highlighted the practical goals of this renewal. "It is crucial how effectively we translate scientific results into innovation, as well as economic and societal value," he noted.

The aim is to foster an open, inspiring environment that deepens the commitment to science through strong partnerships.

For the international community in Hungary and the global scientific cohort, this represents a rare opportunity to lead institutions built on a long tradition of excellence.

Full details regarding the positions and application requirements are available on the official HUN-REN website at hun-ren.hu/dg_positions.

*********************************************************************************************

You're very welcome to comment, discuss and enjoy more stories via our Facebook page: 

Facebook.com/XpatLoopNews + via XpatLoop’s groups: Budapest Expats / Expats Hungary

You can subscribe to our newsletter here: XpatLoop.com/Newsletters

Showcase Your Business to Expats in the Loop:

As an independent portal we’re grateful to all commercial supporters who help keep you in the loop with fresh insights and inspiration. Do you want your business to reach tens of thousands of potential high-value expat customers? If so please contact us here.