Early Career Researchers (ECRs)

Early Career Researchers (ECRs) are at the core of the Penta ID Network’s mission, and we strongly believe in the need for voicing the vision of the future by a younger generation to assure the continuity of Penta.

Who is a Penta ECR?


An Early Career Researcher (ECR) is a Penta ID Network member who is either undertaking a PhD (or equivalent professional training) or is a researcher within seven years from the date of their first research-related appointment, minus eligible delays in research. An ECR has the ambition to continue to develop their research career and to become an independent researcher.

What do we offer ECRs?


Penta provides an ideal environment that enables ECRs to build their research passion and capability. We strive to increase the visibility of ECRs in the scientific community and offer support in the development of future leaders in paediatric infectious diseases.

We do this through:

Click on a button to know more.

ECR Working Group


The ECR Working Group (ECR WG) has been established to foster the next generation of leading researchers in paediatric infectious diseases within the Penta ID Network. It plays a role in contributing fresh perspectives and insights to Penta’s Scientific Working Groups, ensuring innovation and continuity.

  • Co-chairs: Costanza Di Chiara, Lisanne Bevers
  • Coordinator: Matteo Bason

“Our Working Group has been developed to drive Penta’s scientific work in building the next generation of leading researchers in paediatric infectious diseases and offer new insights for Penta’s scientific group. The vision for the our Working Group is for it to be the incubator for the next global research leaders of the Penta Network. The mission is to help each other become better and to facilitate the best use of Penta network’s resources in that direction.”

Join the ECR Working Group: open call for member applications


Penta welcomes new applications to join the Early Career Researchers Working Group (ECR WG)! The ECR WG was created to offer early career researchers a dedicated space within the Penta ID Network to connect, advance their research careers, and contribute to the Foundation’s mission.

What the ECR WG offers to its members:

  • Expand your professional network across institutions, disciplines, and countries.
  • Connect with peers, mentors, and leading experts in your research field.
  • Opportunities to collaborate with Penta ongoing research initiatives.
  • Access training, mentorship, and professional development opportunities.
  • Learn about funding calls and contribute to grant proposals.

How the ECR WG membership works:

  • Membership is open year-round, and new members are invited to join as spots in the WG become available. The WG is refreshed annually to ensure diversity in geography, gender, expertise, and institutional affiliation.
  • We encourage ECRs to submit their applications to the WG at any time. This is the best way to connect with the group, stay informed about our activities, and express your interest in becoming more involved.

How to apply for the ECR WG:

We look forward to receiving your application!