How does it work?

 

 

The research themes in the program of M2i are determined by the needs of the industrial partners. In practice those needs are determined by economic growth and by the potential realization of societal themes.

M2i is looking at a broad range of materials in various market segments. The research themes of M2i’s programme are determined by the needs of the industrial partners. In practice, those needs are determined by economic growth and by the potential for progress relating to certain societal themes. We encourage projects where several industrial sectors participate. This could be partners with a similar problem in different market sectors, or, even better, value-chain projects in which different partners co-operate to develop innovative materials and applications. 

In close collaboration with its industrial partners, M2i helps industry to find the best academic partners to carry out the research. We do not limit ourselves to universities in the Netherlands but select the international research institute or university that is best suited to the research. A project proposal is prepared in cooperation with industry and academia which combines the needs of the industry as well as satisfying the scientific requirements. Depending on the topic, the research can be fundamental or more oriented towards a direct application. It may be a project for a four-year PhD  researcher, a two- or three-year Post Doc position, or even a shorter and more focused research project performed by a research engineer.

All researchers are expected to develop a good understanding of the needs of the industrial partner and work with their counterparts there. Researchers will therefore often spend a considerable amount of time at the premises of the industrial partner. Particular attention is paid to making the results useful and relevant to the daily practice of the industrial partner. If required, this can be done by through additional valorization projects.

Researchers are employed through temporary contracts (2-4 years). At the M2i Career Center, we actively encourage the researchers to pursue a career at one of our partner companies after finishing their contract with M2i, thereby offering industry highly educated, well-trained employees.