A research community becomes truly international when its members can see beyond their individual institutions, disciplines and career stages—and recognise the challenges and ambitions they share.

The Marie Curie Alumni Association has grown into a global network of more than 24,000 members across over 155 countries. By connecting researchers throughout their careers, it provides a space for professional exchange while giving an international research community a collective voice.

In April 2026, the MCAA Annual Conference in Brussels marked 30 years of the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. The programme looked beyond the anniversary to consider what researchers need to thrive: supportive institutions, fair assessment, mental health, inclusion and scientific freedom.

Read the conference reflections

The Association has since elected a new Board for 2026–2028 and joined CUSP, a Horizon Europe project designed to strengthen science diplomacy across Europe. Its contribution to academic integrity was also recognised when the European Observatory of Whistleblowing in Academia received the Tágides Prize.

These developments reflect a community whose role extends beyond alumni networking. MCAA is helping researchers participate in wider conversations about research culture, integrity and international scientific cooperation.

I previously supported the Association as a social media consultant, connecting its activities and international community with digital audiences. Following its development reinforces an important lesson from that work: global communities do not remain connected by structure alone.

Clear, consistent storytelling allows people to understand what their community represents, discover opportunities to participate and see their own experiences as part of a wider endeavour. In research that crosses borders, communication is not simply a way to promote activity—it is part of the infrastructure that holds the community together.