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Funded under Horizon Europe, the project entitled POLICY ANSWERS – R&I POLICY making, implementation ANd Support in the WEsteRn BalkanS (https://www.westernbalkans-infohub.eu/about/) was launched on 1 March 2022. Positioned well in line with the EU Western Balkans[1] (WB) Agenda on Innovation, Research, Education, Culture, Youth and Sport (WB Agenda), POLICY ANSWERS monitors and supports policy coordination within the EU-WB cooperation, but also provides capacity building and pilot actions in the WB to contribute to the region’s EU integration process and to strengthen their innovation ecosystems. This pilot regional mobility scheme launched by POLICY ANSWERS has a call budget of EUR 100,000. It should build the foundation for a follow-up measure to be funded by regional, economy-level or international stakeholders. The aim of this scheme is to enhance regional cooperation and sustained support in mobility-driven R&I and – by fostering the interconnectedness of the WB – to support sustainable economic growth, a common regional market, societal resilience and convergence of the WB with the EU. Enhanced cooperation and sustained support in mobility-driven R&I are also pivotal for equipping the WB with the requisite tools and knowledge to address shared challenges, such as climate change and digital transformation, while fostering a generation of innovators who can reshape the region’s future. These aims should be achieved by fostering brain circulation and encourage brain retention within the WB at an early stage of the researchers’ careers. The young researchers will initiate new contacts and networks to strengthen the links between the regions’ economies and build new bridges between them. Additionally, this scheme will support excellence in research in the WB. Furthermore, it will promote and support the Open Access use of the huge amount of underused research infrastructure (facilities, resources and services) across the WB. This mobility scheme is supported by the Danube Rectors’ Conference (DRC, https://www.drc-danube.org) and the Rectors’ Forum of Southeast Europe and Western Balkans (RF SEEWB, https://www.uni-lj.si/study/rectors-forum-SEE-WB). A project within this scheme must fulfil each of these three criteria: It must use (1) short-term mobility within the WB and (2) specialised equipment or facilities (research infrastructures) in another WB economy in order to (3) do research. Only mobility projects in the field of research will be funded. Mobility must comprise the physical presence of an early-career researcher – as the recipient of the financial support – for a duration of between two weeks and two months at a location in a different WB economy, that allows access to a research infrastructure. The overall duration of the project must be between two weeks and six months, which allows enough time for the exploitation of the results of the mobility. During the project several visits to the same RI are eligible, but not to a different RI in the same or in another WB economy. This scheme addresses early-career researchers (ECR) only, which means that only PhD students and Postdocs, whose doctorate was awarded no longer than seven years before the deadline of this call, are eligible as applicants. The ECR must be affiliated to a home institution, which must be located in the WB. The home institution must be a research performing organisation (RPO) or higher education institutions (HEI) (public or private) that has to be registered and accredited in the WB. Companies are not eligible as home institution. In order to initiate a sustainable and long-term cooperation between the home and the host institution, it is encouraged that the ECR be involved in accompanying activities at the host institution like training, capacity building, soft skill development etc. By definition, a research infrastructure is a set of facilities, resources and services that are used by the research communities to conduct research and foster innovation in their respective fields. It includes: major scientific equipment (or sets of instruments), knowledge-based resources such as collections, archives and scientific data, e-infrastructures, such as data and computing systems and communication networks and any other tools that are essential to achieve excellence in research and innovation[2],[3]. All public or private RPOs or HEI in the WB that are registered in one WB economy under the respective law and provide research infrastructures (as defined above) are eligible as host institution for the recipient; this includes virtual research infrastructures, if an added value of the mobility is evident. The hosting institution is obliged to provide a counsellor (which could be a mentor or a peer) as central contact person for the ECR. In order to boost the regional cooperation, all thematic research areas are eligible (including Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) and arts-based research). Applications that address the twin transition (green and digital) of the WB and priorities mentioned in research strategies of the WB economies (respective Smart Specialisation Strategies/S3) are particularly welcome. The project must have a civilian purpose. The financial support for the recipients is given according to the Horizon Europe regulations for Financial Support to Third Parties. This means that the following regulations in the POLICY ANSWERS grant agreement (GA) also apply to the recipient, who has to: prevent that the implementation of the project is compromised for reasons involving family, emotional life, political or ethnic affinity etc. (‘conflict of interests’, article 12 GA), keep confidential any data, documents or other material that is identified as sensitive in writing (‘sensitive information’) (‘confidentiality and security’, article 13 GA), carry out the action in line with the highest ethical standards and to commit to and ensure the respect of basic EU values (such as respect for human dignity, freedom, democracy etc.) (‘ethics and values’, article 14 GA), acknowledge the EU support and display the European flag (emblem) and funding statement in all communication activities related to the action like media relations, conferences, seminars etc (‘communication, dissemination and visibility’, article 17.2 GA), provide any information requested in order to verify eligibility of the costs or contributions declared, proper implementation of the action etc. (‘general information obligations’, article 19 GA), keep records and other supporting documents to prove the proper implementation of the action (‘record-keeping’, article 20 GA), accept that the granting authority – the European Commission – and other European bodies as the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) etc. may also carry out checks, project reviews, audits and investigations during the action or afterwards (‘checks, reviews, audits and investigations — extension of findings’, article 25 GA). Further information is available in the draft of the “financial support contract” of this scheme as part of the “guide for applicants”. The recipients and the counsellors are obliged to participate in evaluative measures and to provide information for the evaluation of the success of the funding measure. The financial support will be given as a grant with a maximum sum of EUR 5,000 per project. The funding will be given as non-refundable grant in two instalments, with a first share as pre-financing (75%), and a second share after approval of the final report (25%). Eligible costs are supported by: an “allowance unit cost” of EUR 75 per day of the stay – resulting in EUR 2,250 per month (30 days) – to compensate for all travel costs and living allowances of the recipient (including cost for visa etc.); any cost that occurs at the host institution like accession fees, consumables etc.; costs for exploitation of project results (visibility, publication of scientific article, etc.); Costs of category (2) and (3) are accounted for as direct costs only (with VAT) that have to be actual, economic and necessary. Health, accident and personal liability insurances for the time of mobility have to be taken out by the recipients at their own expense. The financial support may not be used to cover costs that are already covered by other sources. The financial support is not renewable. Read more at https://www.westernbalkans-infohub.eu/calls/western-balkans-mobility-scheme/

The Fili B era at Arizona is officially over. Sophomore wing Filip Borovicanin is set to enter the NCAA transfer portal, making him the second Wildcat to do so on Monday. The 6-foot-9 Borovicanin appeared in 34 games for the UA over two seasons, including 20 in 2023-24. He averaged 1.9 points, 1.3 rebounds and 0.6 assists, shooting 44.2 percent from the field and 83.3 percent from the line. Borovicanin scored a career-best 11 points in the season opener against Morgan State and had eight a week later against Southern. But he played double-digit minutes only once in Pac-12 play, in the opener at Cal, as Arizona’s rotation remained eight throughout the season. A native of Serbia, Borovicanin averaged 14.1 points, 7.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists in seven games for his country in the FIBA U19 World Cup last summer. https://www.azdesertswarm.com/basketball/2024/4/1/24118137/arizona-wildcats-mens-basketball-filip-borovicanin-ncaa-transfer-portal-serbia-paulius-murauskas

Priprema za digitalni SAT General, ispit potreban za upis koledža i univerziteta u Americi i na drugim lokacijama u svetu, počinje u utorak, 9. aprila 2024. godine i traje sedam nedelja. Ovaj termin priprema prilagođen je polaganju testa u junu 2024. godine, ali se može iskoristiti i za termine u drugoj polovini godine. Test se od početka 2023. godine isključivo obavlja u digitalnoj verziji u ovlašćenim centrima za polaganje. Više informacija o terminima, cenama, novom obliku testa i drugim detaljima možete pronaći na zvaničnom sajtu ispita http://www.collegeboard.org. Na tom istom sajtu prijavljujete i plaćate polaganje na izabranoj lokaciji. Prijava za zvanični test odvojena je od priprema i mora se platiti na navedenom sajtu. Priprema se organizuje onlajn ili uživo u prostorijama Međunarodnog akademskog Centra u Beogradu. Termini su utorak i subota - predloženi termini utorkom su od 10:00 do 12:00 ili od 16:00 do 18:00 zbog smena u školi, ali je moguće menjanje satnice ukoliko to odgovara polaznicima. Priprema subotom se odvija u popodnevnim satima i biće posebno najavljena polaznicima. Vežbanja nove verzije testa uključuju i određene vrste simulacija koje će posebno biti najavljivane polaznicima. Kada se pripreme završe, kandidati i dalje mogu da vežbaju uz dostupni materijal sa nama bez ikakvog plaćanja i da se konsultuju sa predavačima oko delova testa koji im mogu biti problematični. Priprema košta 48,000 dinara i plaća se u dve rate. Prvi deo u iznosu od 30,000 dinara se plaća na početku, a drugi deo na polovini kursa. Sam test ne ulazi u cenu priprema i mora se prijaviti na sajtu http://www.collegeboard.org i platiti kreditnom ili debitnom karticom kojom se može plaćati na Internetu. Broj mesta za testove je ograničen i savetujemo svim kandidatima da se za test prijave što je pre moguće. Za sva pitanja o registraciji za test kontaktirajte Centar tokom radnog vremena. Na časovima se obrađuju jezički i matematički deo testa. Osim rada na samim časovima, sa predavačima ćete moći da razmotrite šta bi od dodatne dostupne literature moglo da vam bude od koristi za vežbanje pre polaganja. Pre početka priprema potrebno je uraditi besplatni probni test znanja engleskog jezika. Test je dostupan onlajn i link će biti prosleđen svim kandidatima za pripremu nakon prijave na sajtu Centra. Prijava za pripremu obavlja se na našem sajtu popunjavanjem odgovarajućeg formulara na stranici https://forms.gle/DWFaSPXj8MJUwkA16 . Ako imate problema sa formularom, molimo vas da nas nazovete tokom radnog vremena na 0113349639 ili 0653349639 ili pošaljete e-mail na office@iacbg.org .

Priprema za digitalni SAT General, ispit potreban za upis koledža i univerziteta u Americi i na drugim lokacijama u svetu, počinje u utorak, 9. aprila 2024. godine i traje sedam nedelja. Ovaj termin priprema prilagođen je polaganju testa u junu 2024. godine, ali se može iskoristiti i za termine u drugoj polovini godine. Test se od početka 2023. godine isključivo obavlja u digitalnoj verziji u ovlašćenim centrima za polaganje. Više informacija o terminima, cenama, novom obliku testa i drugim detaljima možete pronaći na zvaničnom sajtu ispita http://www.collegeboard.org. Na tom istom sajtu prijavljujete i plaćate polaganje na izabranoj lokaciji. Prijava za zvanični test odvojena je od priprema i mora se platiti na navedenom sajtu. Priprema se organizuje onlajn ili uživo u prostorijama Međunarodnog akademskog Centra u Beogradu. Termini su utorak i subota - predloženi termini utorkom su od 10:00 do 12:00 ili od 16:00 do 18:00 zbog smena u školi, ali je moguće menjanje satnice ukoliko to odgovara polaznicima. Priprema subotom se odvija u popodnevnim satima i biće posebno najavljena polaznicima. Vežbanja nove verzije testa uključuju i određene vrste simulacija koje će posebno biti najavljivane polaznicima. Kada se pripreme završe, kandidati i dalje mogu da vežbaju uz dostupni materijal sa nama bez ikakvog plaćanja i da se konsultuju sa predavačima oko delova testa koji im mogu biti problematični. Priprema košta 48,000 dinara i plaća se u dve rate. Prvi deo u iznosu od 30,000 dinara se plaća na početku, a drugi deo na polovini kursa. Sam test ne ulazi u cenu priprema i mora se prijaviti na sajtu http://www.collegeboard.org i platiti kreditnom ili debitnom karticom kojom se može plaćati na Internetu. Broj mesta za testove je ograničen i savetujemo svim kandidatima da se za test prijave što je pre moguće. Za sva pitanja o registraciji za test kontaktirajte Centar tokom radnog vremena. Na časovima se obrađuju jezički i matematički deo testa. Osim rada na samim časovima, sa predavačima ćete moći da razmotrite šta bi od dodatne dostupne literature moglo da vam bude od koristi za vežbanje pre polaganja. Pre početka priprema potrebno je uraditi besplatni probni test znanja engleskog jezika. Test je dostupan onlajn i link će biti prosleđen svim kandidatima za pripremu nakon prijave na sajtu Centra. Prijava za pripremu obavlja se na našem sajtu popunjavanjem odgovarajućeg formulara na stranici https://forms.gle/DWFaSPXj8MJUwkA16 . Ako imate problema sa formularom, molimo vas da nas nazovete tokom radnog vremena na 0113349639 ili 0653349639 ili pošaljete e-mail na office@iacbg.org .

We are looking for a talented, research-oriented PhD candidate to join the project "Curve Ensemble Gradient Descents for Sparse Dynamic Problems" at University of Twente. We offer a full-time position for four years in an active and stimulating research environment, bridging applied and pure mathematics. The PhD candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Marcello Carioni and will be part of the group Mathematics of Imaging and Artificial Intelligence (MIA) at the department of Applied Mathematics. For more information about the position and the application procedure, you are welcome to visit https://utwentecareers.nl/en/vacancies/1664/phd-position-in-optimization-optimal-transport-and-inverse-problems/ and contact Dr. Marcello Carioni (m.c.carioni@utwente.nl). Deadline: 5 April 2024.

The Computational Science group at TU Eindhoven is recruiting for a 4 year fully-funded PhD position to on “Using numerical linear algebra to exploit structure in data assimilation”. The position will be supervised by Jemima Tabeart and the student will join the active Centre for Analysis, Scientific Computing and Applications. Candidates with a strong applied Mathematics background and a Master’s degree in a numerate subject are encouraged to apply. The PhD project will develop numerical linear algebra methods for data assimilation problems motivated by applications to numerical weather prediction and geosciences. Possible research directions include developing new preconditioners, iterative solvers and designing practical implementations under challenging operational constraints. Candidates do not require prior knowledge of data assimilation, but should be excited to apply numerical analysis techniques to high-dimensional problems of real-world importance. Applications will be considered as soon as they are received. The procedure may be closed earlier than the final application date (April 6, 2024). Some flexibility in the starting date of the position is possible, with an ideal starting date before October 2024. Full information can be found at https://jobs.tue.nl/en/vacancy/phd-using-numerical-linear-algebra-to-exploit-structure-in-data-assimilation-1059695.html and inquiries can be directed to j.m.tabeart@tue.nl

A fully funded Ph.D. opening at the Faculty of Civil Engineering, Czech Technical University, is available for candidates with a strong interest in applying and developing mathematical programming techniques for the optimal design of modular structures, mechanisms, and/or (meta-))materials. For full consideration, a complete application must be received by 30 April 2024. Review of applications will begin immediately upon receipt of the application and will continue no later than 14 May 2024. The successful candidate will start on 1 July 2024. Full details on the position are available at https://euraxess.ec.europa.eu/jobs/187454

A two years postdoctoral position in scientific computing is proposed at BRGM (french geological survey) Orléans, France in collaboration between BRGM and University Côte d'Azur, LJAD, Inria. The project deals with the high performance simulation of Thermo-Hydro- Mechanical (THM) models in faulted geological systems with applications to mineral resources and geothermal systems. The main objectives are the following: - to develop in the open source code ComPASS https://gitlab.com/compass a parallel 3D THM numerical model adapted to polyhedral meshes and accounting for a linear elastic rock behavior with small deformations and frictional contact at matrix-fault interfaces, - to couple this new contact-mechanical module with the multiphase non- isothermal flow model already implemented in ComPASS based on a robust iterative coupling strategy. Applicants should have a background in scientific computing/applied mathematics and be familiar with scientific programming (C++, Python, MPI) and collaborative development tools. To apply send applications with CV, letter of motivation, and references, to l.beaude@brgm.fr, t.guillon@brgm.fr, s.lopez@brgm.fr, roland.masson@univ-cotedazur.fr. Details can be found at the following link: https://math.univ-cotedazur.fr/~massonr/Postdoctoral-Position-BRGM-UniCA.pdf

The University of Klagenfurt invites applications for a position as a Full Professor of Optimization (all genders welcome) at the Department of Mathematics. This is a full-time position, available from 1 October 2024. Whether the position will be implemented in compliance with the provisions of Art. 98 (permanent) or Art. 99 of the Austrian Universities Act (limited to 5 years) will be decided in the course of the appointment procedure. The professorship will be embedded within the new Area of Research Excellence "Multiple Perspectives in Optimization (MPOpt)" with its well-established Doctoral Programme in Mathematics at the Department of Mathematics and within the Faculty of Technical Sciences (https://www.aau.at/en/tewi/). The department provides a vivid, friendly, and research-oriented environment. Details can be found at https://jobs.aau.at/en/job/full-professor-of-optimization-all-genders-welcome/ Application deadline: 17 April 2024

The Department of Mathematics at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology invites applications for a tenure-track professorship (W1). We are looking for an individual who is internationally recognized in the field of data- driven numerical methods for partial differential equations. Areas of work include the development and analysis of deep learning methods for high- dimensional PDE problems, of deep operator networks for learning the data-to-solution map of PDEs, of physics-informed neural networks or of data-driven optimization tasks with PDE constraints. As part of the tenure-track professorship, you will participate in the research focus "Partial Differential Equations" and, if possible, in the Collaborative Research Center 1173 "Wave Phenomena". In addition, we expect your interdisciplinary cooperation within the KIT Center "Mathematics in Sciences, Engineering, and Economics" (MathSEE). You will lead your own research group and participate in academic self-governance. Your teaching obligation will be 4 hours per week per semester before and 6 hours per week per semester after positive midterm evaluation. More details can be found in the official job announcement: https://www.pse.kit.edu/english/karriere/joboffer.php?id=143647

Announcement for the “Sharing Future” Artist in residence scholarship 2024 of the International Elias Canetti Society Funded by the Danube Rectors’ Conference The Canetti Artist Scholarship is aimed at artists from all over Europe. The fact that it is also advertised to artists from neighboring countries – from the Western Balkans and Turkey, should, in particular, provide opportunities for international, artistic exchange. Various different forms of arts should be fostered by the scholarship: painters, photographers, writers, performance artists, translators, and musicians can apply for it. The slogan of the scholarship “Sharing Future” aims at a collaborative creation and cooperation for a joint Europe and a common future. The funding period of the scholarship is one month. The scholarship holder can pursue his/ her artistic work undisturbed in the spring/summer of 2024 in Ruse use the historic Canetti house as a workplace with various possibilities for artistic expression using the space (http://eliascanetti.org/bg/dom-kaneti-2/) get to know the local cultural scene in Ruse and Bulgaria and use the resulting synergies and artistic realization live in an apartment provided by the IECS receive 1200 € for contribution and 300 for € travel expenses or 1500 € for both combined. Project-related expenses are to be covered within this amount. Application documents to be submitted: artist curriculum vitae significant illustrations of the artistic works in personal catalogs or a portfolio a concrete plan for realization of the planned project idea The application with all documents should be sent to eliascanetti@eliascanetti.org no later than 31.5.2024. All documents and/or attachments must be sent in pdf. file format. Applications not conforming to the aforementioned requirements will not be reviewed by the committee. Various additional services (materials, organizational aids, etc.) are provided individually. The realized project idea (for example exhibition, music album, video, etc.) could be presented during our annual International Literature Festival in Ruse. The decision on the holder of the scholarship is made by a three-member Board of Trustees of the Elias Canetti Society and the Danube Rectors’ Conference. The exact composition of the Board of Trustees will be announced on our website. The authors agree with the terms of the scholarship announcement by submitting their application. This year’s scholarship holder will be announced at the end of June 2024. The legal recourse is excluded. Information about Elias Canetti Society: The International Elias Canetti Society was founded in 1992 in Ruse/Bulgaria, the birthplace of Elias Canetti. The central goals of the Society include a dedication to researching Canetti’s work, promoting the European integration process and participating in rebuilding civil societal structures in post-communist Bulgaria. The Society’s work encompasses essentially four fields: Cultural mediation, cultural dialogue, civic education, and academics. Particular emphasis is placed on cooperation between the countries of the Danube cultural region. The cultural events we organize range from the annual Literature Festival Ruse, through youth events and exhibitions to international conferences. http://eliascanetti.org/en/home/ The city of Ruse: http://bulgariatravel.org/en/object/88/Ruse https://eliascanetti.org/en/2024/02/27/call-for-applications-for-the-sharing-future-artist-in-residence-scholarship-2024/

Background The Austrian Federal Ministry for Education, Science and Research (BMBWF) and the Institute for the Danube Region and Central Europe (IDM) created the Danubius Award in 2011, with the intention to honour persons with extraordinary achievements in their scientific activity and output in relation to the Danube Region. The Award To complement this award with a specific prize for young scientists – the so-called „Danubius Young Scientist Award” competition is now open for nominations! 14 young scientists will be granted this award – one for each country that is part of the EU Strategy for the Danube Region [Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary, Moldova, Montenegro, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Romania and Ukraine]*. The award seeks to highlight the scientific work and talent of young researchers and enhance the visibility of the scientific community in the region. Moreover, the award encourages young scientists to engage in the scientific examination of the multifaceted issues and questions specifically related to the Danube region. The award will endow 1,350 Euro for each winner of the Danubius Young Scientist Award. An award ceremony is planned for 14 November 2024 in Krems, Austria, the details of which will be announced in due time. Moreover, thanks to the ongoing kind support by the European Commission´s Joint Research Centre the JCR is planning to invite the awardees to visit one of their facilities in Ispra, Italy, in 2025. NEW: For the attribution to the country, the nominating institution is the determining factor. Meaning, if for example, an Austrian institution would nominate a researcher for the award, the citizenship of the researcher itself is irrelevant, the price will be attributed to Austria. With that, we want to open the nomination process for all young researchers from an institution within the EUSDR and thereby contributing to the Danube Region research landscape. Award Criteria Scientific excellence and innovative approach of the academic work Thematic relevance of the scientific work for issues/problems of the Danube Region Relevance of the scientific work beyond national borders Potential of the candidate (for example: integration in international networks, participation in scientific projects, publication history, experience in teaching etc.) No formal age limit – BUT limitation to participants that have received their Master/PhD max. 5 years ago (= after 1 January 2019) Submissions of candidates holding only a bachelor degree will not be accepted Document submission Documents have to be submitted in English (exception: copy of the academic title received) and as three PDF files: Nomination of the candidate(s) by the institution (recommendation letter – max. 1 page) One single document about the candidate consisting of the following information: Summary of the scientific work (e.g. thesis, dissertation, journal article, scientific publication etc.) and its specific relevance for the Danube Region Curriculum Vitae including publication list of the candidate (in total max. 3 pages) – the limitation of 3 pages applies to the part B only (CV and publication list) Copy of the document related to the candidate´s highest academic title received (to verify the criteria of max. 5 years after master degree or PhD degree). Nominations must be submitted via the online form below. For any technical issues or questions, please contact d.martinek@idm.at The deadline for submitting nominations is Friday, 3 May 2024 at 23:59 CEST. Selection process Candidates for the Danubius Young Scientist Award can come from all scientific disciplines. The nomination of the award candidate cannot be made by the candidate himself/herself but he or she has to be nominated by their hosting scientific institution (university, academy of sciences, research organization etc.). The number of nominations per institution is limited to five, meaning every university, academy of sciences or research organization etc. can nominate up to a maximum of five candidates in total. However, the five candidates have to come from different faculties or departments, institutes or research groups within the organization. If more than five applications arrive, those arriving via the rectorate or management of the organization will be given preference, as it is assumed that they have gone through an internal coordination process. An international expert jury will be responsible for assessing all incoming nominations and for determining a final ranking list. The award will be recommended for the highest ranked candidates. https://www.idm.at/activities/awards/danubius-young-scientist-award/

Coventry University (CU) is inviting applications from suitably-qualified graduates for a fully funded PhD studentship examining Contentious Civil Societies and Democratisation in Southeastern Europe. Candidates will be based in the Centre for Trust, Peace and Social Relations – a research centre in the Institute for Peace and Security. Many current developments in Post-Communist Southeast European politics confound analysts. Firstly, while the overall trend is towards democratic backsliding, there is much variation between states to the extent that democracy databases often disagree; for example Romania’s democracy score has been on a negative trajectory since the mid-2010s according to Freedom House, but a positive trajectory according to V-Dem. Part of this confusion arises from the fact that, with the sudden emergence of battle-ready civil societies in the 2010s, most of these societies are far more contentious that they were in the 2000s. Contention is notoriously difficult to evaluate from the perspective of democracy evaluators. This ‘contention’ conundrum is of interest to political scientists and democracy promoters worldwide: are polarised, contentious civil societies better understood as catalysing or spoiling factors in young democracies? The former interpretation prevails in much rationalist political science theorising while the latter argument is rooted in agonistic democratic theory and the new social movements literature. Activists struggling for emancipatory causes are at once celebrated by democratic theorists as seeking to expand the democratic realm and (often implicitly) denigrated as drivers of polarisation by rationalist political scientists, especially as in Southeastern Europe where these activists are struggling against (often pro-EU) political elites. The whole situation calls for a closer look. The proposed PhD project would be a mostly qualitative, possibly ethnographic study focussed in either one or two countries of Southeastern Europe that would ideally facilitate access to either or both liberal-emancipatory and illiberal civil society actors. Methodologies such as participant observation, focus groups and semi-structured interviews would be encouraged to allow civil society actors themselves to outline their interests and identities in relation to aspirations for – or against - democracy and its liberal dimensions. All applications require a covering letter and a maximum 2000-word supporting statement is required showing how the applicant’s expertise and interests are relevant to the project. Entry criteria for applicants to PhD A bachelor’s (honours) degree in a relevant discipline/subject area with a minimum classification of 2:1 and a minimum mark of 60% in the project element (or equivalent), or an equivalent award from an overseas institution. PLUS The potential to engage in innovative research and to complete the PhD within 3.5 years An adequate proficiency in English must be demonstrated by applicants whose first language is not English. The general requirement is a minimum overall IELTS Academic score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the four sections, or the TOEFL iBT test with a minimum overall score of 95 with a minimum of 21 in each of the four sections. For further details please visit: https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-opportunities/research-students/making-an-application/ https://www.coventry.ac.uk/research/research-opportunities/research-students/making-an-application/research-entry-criteria/ Additional requirements One or more languages of the Post-Communist Southeastern Europe region, inclusive of Bulgaria, Romania, Albania and all former Yugoslav states (desirable) To find out more about the project please contact Dr James Dawson (james.dawson@coventry.ac.uk) https://www.jobs.ac.uk/job/DFN199/phd-studentship-contentious-civil-societies-and-democratisation-in-southeastern-europe?fbclid=IwAR1t9S7dpOGzht5Wkq5pBxVUlme3DTR7orfC8XSpud27OoxqJn4g4c6JpPw

PHOENIX – Serbia is known for producing elite athletes Nikola Jokic in basketball, Novak Djokovic in men’s tennis and Sergej Milinković-Savić in soccer, but tennis is one of the least popular sports because its price tag. However, Iva Sepa is using tennis as a vehicle as she adjusts to moving from Serbia to Phoenix, where she is a freshman studying business information and is on the Grand Canyon University women’s tennis team. “I started playing tennis when I was eight. Actually, my grandma brought me to the tennis courts because she was a big fan of tennis,” Sepa said. Over time her love for the game blossomed and she continued to play. Before moving to America, Sepa’s main goal was to play tennis professionally in Serbia until GCU coach Katarina Adamovic, who is also from Serbia, traveled to recruit Sepa. “When I was recruiting her, I heard lots of good things from other coaches in Serbia and connections we had, but when I sat down with her and I had to talk with her and her dad, I knew this is kind of the person and the player I want to be part of my program,” Adamovic said. Since moving to Arizona and living away from home, her family has been her main supporter during the entire process. During Sepa’s time in Arizona, she has already experienced plenty of adjustments. “The biggest change is living in another country and then our lack of language and being surrounded by another culture,” Sepa said. “It’s completely different.” Another massive change is nutrition in the states. Sepa has tried different American foods like pasta, pizza, and burgers, and she recently tried sushi. The move for Sepa was not nerve-racking; and now somewhat settled, she is enjoying her time here. “I was actually so excited I was so happy that I’m coming here. I still am because this is unreal. For me, this is a dream,” Sepa said. Sepa is playing well in her freshman season, posting a 4-1 record in singles. Her doubles record with Lailaa Bashir and Elizaveta Morozova is 6-2. It is a learning curve for both of them. “Now it’s kind of one person is at the net, the other one is in back, and I’m usually the only one at the net,” Bashir said. “So it’s just been a little bit of an adjustment to get used to. I think we’re finding some progress and we’re figuring it out.” Sepa has been playing tennis for a long time in Serbia, and in her first few months in Arizona, she noticed differences in how tennis is played compared to Serbia. “The differences are unreal here (Arizona),” Sepa said. “We have so much other opportunity to play with good players. With good coaches, even fitness and dentists. We have treatments that we don’t have in Serbia that often.” Since joining the team, she has positively impacted Adamovic, Bashir and everyone else on the team who adores her. “When she (Iva) got here, she’s just been an amazing teammate, as a freshman stepping to roll, playing at a high level, and embracing being on a team instead of playing by yourself,” Adamovic said. “She’s very light-hearted and funny and my other teammates will probably agree with that,” Bashir said. “She’s kind of the comedic relief lightheartedness and she’s a really good presence to be around.” Serbia is a country that not many people talk about, but there is something very interesting about the country. “We had an excellent food that probably a lot of people don’t. We have amazing athletes. The country is really pretty and nice,” said Sepa, whose favorite Serbian dish is Ćevapi, which is a grilled dish of minced meat. The Lopes’ travel on the road Friday to play North Texas. Every match is pivotal moving forward as the WAC tournament, which starts April 18, rapidly approaches. https://cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2024/02/19/gcu-tennis-iva-sepa-serbia/

We are pleased to announce the newly opened calls for in-residence fellowships at the Centre for Advanced Study Sofia for 2024/2025. Application deadline: 31 March 2024. Under the Advanced Academia Platform CAS Sofia offers a number of different fellowship schemes for postdoctoral researchers from the social sciences and the humanities for the 2024/2025 academic year. Full details can be found further below. GERDA HENKEL FELLOWSHIPS SUSTAINING UKRAINIAN SCHOLARSHIP SOCIAL RELEVANCE OF THE HUMANITIES ADVANCED ACADEMIA FELLOWSHIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARS ADVANCED ACADEMIA FELLOWSHIPS FOR YOUNG BULGARIAN SCHOLARS RE-LINK FELLOWSHIPS FOR THE BULGARIAN DIASPORA PFORZHEIMER FELLOWSHIPS FOR SENIOR BULGARIAN SCHOLARS https://cas.bg/en/cas-fellowships-for-2024-2025/

The Weierstrass Institute for Applied Analysis and Stochastics (WIAS) is an institute of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. (FVB). The FVB comprises seven non-university research institutes in Berlin which are funded by the federal and state governments. The research institutes belong to the Leibniz Association. WIAS invites applications for a PhD student position (f/m/d) (Ref. 24/02) in the Research Group 'Nonsmooth Variational Problems and Operator Equations' (Head: Prof. Dr. M. Hintermuller) to be filled at the earliest possible date. Field of work: Distributed algorithms for physics-based large-scale equilibrium problems. Work tasks include: Studying systems in a game-theoretical context involving physical constraints taking the form of partial differential equations with uncertainties. Analyzing distributed stochastic models where agents do not share all information but need to find equilibrium strategies. Developing and implementing novel distributed algorithms to find equilibria computationally. The chosen student will be part of the MATH+ Cluster of Excellence project AA4-13 'Equilibria for Distributed Multi-Modal Energy Systems under Uncertainty'. Wanted: A motivated, outstanding student with a master's degree in mathematics. A strong background in the theory and numerics of partial differential equations and a very good background in optimization and/or stochastic analysis is required. Please direct scientific queries to Dr. C. Geiersbach (Caroline.Geiersbach@wias-berlin.de). The position is limited to three years. Please upload your complete application documents (motivation letter, detailed CV, certificates, list of MSc courses and grades, copy of the master thesis, reference letters, etc.) via our applicant portal (https://short.sg/j/41821279) using the button 'Apply online' (https://short.sg/a/41821279). The advertisement is open with immediate effect and will remain open until the position will be filled. See here for more information: https://www.wias-berlin.de/jobs/index.jsp?lang=1 https://wias-berlin.softgarden.io/de/vacancies

Helmut Schmidt University / University of the Federal Armed Forces in Hamburg (Germany) offers a position as Postdoc or PhD student (f/m/d) in Applied Mathematics for three years. The research focus of the Chair of Applied Mathematics is on the development of numerical methods for the simulation and optimization of problems with partial differential equations (PDE). In addition, the modeling of multiscale problems in connection with electrochemical applications such as fuel cells and batteries is an important field of research. Field of activity of the position: Optimal design of experiments and optimal measurement methods for models based on partial differential equations; Optimal design of experiments: Consideration of classical methods of optimal design of experiments as well as Bayesian approaches and stochastic optimization approaches; Application to microscopic and multiscale battery models; Use of parallelization approaches in space, e.g. parallel multigrid methods, and in time, e.g. multiple shooting and parareal methods; Involvement in teaching in analysis, linear algebra and numerical mathematics. Qualification requirements: Proven experience in the numerical solution of partial differential equations; Excellent knowledge of programming with C++ or Python; Foreign language skills in English with a level of proficiency corresponding to at least level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Also desirable: Special knowledge of optimization with partial differential equations as constraints; Sound knowledge of discretization methods for PDE, preferably finite element method; Sound experience in object-oriented programming and software development with Git; Experience in project management of scientific projects; Strong interest in scientific work and the ability to teach. Interested candidates should send by February 29, 2024, a motivation letter, CV and the usual certificates to personalabteilung@hsu-hh.de including the reference number MB-0124. For information on scientific questions, please contact Prof. Dr. Thomas Carraro, e-mail: carraro@hsu-hh.de.

Two postdoctoral research associate positions are available in numerical analysis to work on mesh generation and CPU/GPU parallelization of new high-order PDE solvers with applications in solids, fluids, and their interactions (particularly towards problems in geophysics and cardiovascular medicine). The positions will be affiliated with the Ecole normale superieure of Paris-Saclay University (15th worldwide by current Shanghai rankings, 1st in continental Europe), located in the heart of the "French Silicon Valley". No knowledge of French is required (all work can be done in English). Complete details and info on how to apply can be found here: https://faisalamlani.com/postdoc_call_2024.pdf

The Faculty of Mathematics of the University of Vienna (Austria) invites applications for a Postdoctoral University Assistant position (3 years) in Numerical Methods for Partial Differential Equations. The application deadline is March 11, 2024. The detailed announcement can be found here: https://jobs.univie.ac.at/job/University-Assistant-postdoctoral/1032688401/

The Department of Mathematics at Florida State University (FSU) is accepting applications for a postdoctoral research associate position in applied and computational mathematics starting in August 2024. This position will be funded through a new DOE Energy Earthshots award, "Advanced Multi-Physics Machine Learning for Subsurface Energy Systems Across Scales." (For more information about the DOE's Energy Earthshots Initiative, visit https://www.energy.gov/energy-earthshots-initiative). The project aims to build a computational model for a comprehensive understanding of physical, geomechanical, and geochemical processes occurring at multiple scales in subsurface energy storage and recovery systems. An interdisciplinary team from five institutions (The University of Texas at El Paso, FSU, The University of Utah, Sandia National Lab, and Alma Energy LLC) with expertise in diverse disciplines (applied mathematics, data science, geoscience, and engineering) will collaborate on this project. The candidate should have a Ph.D. degree in applied mathematics, computational science, subsurface engineering, or any closely related field. Any experience and skills in the following areas are strongly preferred. Numerical methods for partial differential equations methods in porous media; Multiscale numerical methods " Scientific machine learning; Excellent programming skills in Python and C++ and prior experience with High-Performance Computing; Strong written and oral communication skills. The start date of this position will be August 1, 2024. Candidates must apply through both the MathJobs website and the FSU Employment and Recruiting Services website at jobs.fsu.edu ( job opening 57074 ) . Any interested candidates should submit (1) CV, (2) a research statement, (3) the names and contact information of at least three professional references. Applications will be reviewed immediately, and the search will remain open until the position is filled.

Claremont Graduate University is seeking a postdoctoral fellow (research assistant professor) to work under the supervision of Professor H.N. Mhaskar on his project funded by the Office of Naval Research. The candidate should have a Ph.D. in mathematics or related disciplines. The term starts on August 1, 2024 till July 31, 2025, expected to be renewed for another year subject to funding and satisfactory work. There is some flexibility with the timing. Subsidized housing might be available https://my.cgu.edu/housing/. The project consists of developing a new paradigm for machine learning based on computational harmonic analysis. The appointee will be expected to find application areas and demonstrate the success of the theory to these areas, and thus expected to have strong programming background in addition to a good background in mathematical analysis. The project interacts with several areas of mathematics: computational harmonic analysis, approximation theory, orthogonal polynomials, image processing, inverse problems, partial differential equations, etc. It is not expected that the candidate should be an expert in all these areas, but should have the enthusiasm and ability to absorb new areas of knowledge quickly. To apply, please submit a cover letter, CV (with list of publications), statement of research interests, and at least three letters of recommendation via mathjobs.org. For further information, contact Professor Mhaskar at hrushikesh.mhaskar@cgu.edu

The Weierstrass Institute for Applied Analysis and Stochastics (WIAS) is an institute of the Forschungsverbund Berlin e.V. (FVB). The FVB comprises seven non-university research institutes in Berlin which are funded by the federal and state governments. The research institutes belong to the Leibniz Association. WIAS invites applications for a Research Assistant position (f/m/d) (Ref. 24/01) in the Research Group "Interacting Random Systems" (Head: Prof. Dr. W. Konig) starting as soon as possible. The task is to analyze stochastic models for the dynamics and statics of large interacting systems to support and complement the research directions in the group. We would like the successful candidate to develop contacts to other groups in the Institute. The Institute would support the acquisition of experience with third-party funding, teaching and research supervision in preparation for a professorship. We are looking for: A completed scientific university degree and a Ph.D. (or equivalent experience) in mathematics or a closely related field is required. Experience with some of the following topics will strengthen your application: statistical physics; critical phenomena; interacting point and particle processes; random media; random operators; random graphs with structure. Knowledge of the theory of large deviations and variational analysis would also be advantageous. Please direct scientific queries to Professor Dr. W. Konig (Wolfgang.Koenig@wias-berlin.de). The appointment is initially limited for two years. The salary is according to the German TVoD scale. Please upload complete application documents including a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a short research statement (max. 2 pages) and photocopies of relevant certificates as soon as possible and no later than 22.03.2024 via our online job-application facility (https://short.sg/j/41760876) using the button 'Apply online' (https://short.sg/a/41760876). See here for more information: https://www.wias-berlin.de/jobs/index.jsp?lang=1 https://wias-berlin.softgarden.io/de/vacancies

A position is open for an Assistant or Associate Professor in Mathematics of Scientific Machine Learning, at the Mathematics of Imaging & AI group within the Department of Applied Mathematics of the University of Twente. The profile sought is a highly committed research scientist whose focus is at the interface of data science and nonlinear analysis of PDEs and inverse problems. This includes for instance the theory of uncertainty quantification, harmonic analysis, geometric deep learning or data-driven reduced modelling with impact in the mathematics of scientific machine learning. For further information about employment conditions and to apply for this position, please visit the official announcement at https://utwentecareers.nl/en/vacancies/1651/assistantassociate-professor-in-mathematics-of-scientific-machine-learning

A PhD position in Numerical Analysis (3 years) is available at the Otto von Guericke University in Magdeburg, Germany, within the Numerical Mathematics group of Prof. Robert Altmann. Applicants are expected to have a strong background in numerical analysis of PDEs and/or eigenvalue problems. Moreover, the position comes along with teaching duties (in German). Further questions can be asked via email: robert.altmann@ovgu.de Applications need to contain a CV, a letter of motivation, copies of degree certificates, and relevant course transcripts. Deadline is February 18. For application submissions we refer to the website: https://ovgu.b-ite.careers/aeh2s

The Johannes Kepler University in Linz (Austria) is offering a PhD student position at the Institute for Mathematical Methods in Medicine and Data-Based Modeling for a duration of 3 years, starting as soon as possible. (https://www.jku.at/fileadmin/gruppen/188/Call_ECMOPT_10_2023.pdf) The position is partly funded by the Linz Institute of Technology SeedMedPlus 2022 call as part of the project Next Generation Veno-Venous ECMO Via Flow Optimization, led by Prof. Dr. Luca Gerardo-Giorda from the Institute for Mathematical Methods in Medicine and Data- Based Modeling (M3DM) and by Prof. Dr. Jens Meier from the Department of Anaestesiology and Intensive Care Medicine (AICM) of the Kepler University Klinikum. The PhD student will join M3DM and collaborate with AICM and the Mathematical Methods in Medicine and Life Sciences Group at RICAM, the Johann Radon Institute for Computational and Applied Mathematics of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OAW). The goal of the project is the development of patient specific simulations to optimize the efficacy of Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), a well-established procedure used in Intensive Care Units (ICU) to treat patients with either pulmonary or circulatory failure. We seek a profile with Master's degree in Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Computer Science or similar. German language is not required for the job, and we highly welcome international applications. Scientific inquiries about the position can be directed to Prof. Dr. Luca Gerardo-Giorda (luca.gerardo-giorda@jku.at). Applications containing a scientific CV, a short research statement, and references for possible recommendation letters should be sent via email to cornelia.strasser@jku.at indicating in the subject "PhD position application: ECMO".