Key domains
Centres of Excellence
One of the most important objectives of the internal research policy of K.U.Leuven is improving research quality as well as the internal organisation and efficiency of the research process. Therefore, a specific funding scheme was launched in 2005. It provides a 5 year funding for research initiatives within specific areas, often by means of internal networking between reseach groups with complementary competencies. In the future, the funding of Centres of Excellence will be continued in the so-called ‘Programme Funding’.
Impulse projects
K.U.Leuven wants to create a suitable and challenging research environment for its resarchers. The availability of advanced research infrastructures are necessary to participate in modern top-research. At the same time, it opens the opportunity to provide scientific services to third partners. In 2003 and 2004 a specific programme for funding of research infrastructures was launched. This programme will be continued in the future by the so-called Hercules-programme of the Flemish Government.
Methusalem
The Methusalem programme provides long term (7 years) structural funding for top researchers in Flanders. The programme is funded by the Flemish Government and is meant for experienced researchers with an international recognition.
Odysseus
The Odysseus programme encourages researchers, in all scientific disciplines (including social sciences and humanities), who established their career (mainly) abroad to pursue an independent research career at a Flemish university by supporting them with a start-up project, including the development of a research group where appropriate, aimed at opening up new lines of research.
