Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1533084
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 9 MARCH 2025 7 COMMERCIAL MALTESE entities have long benefitted from hosting research- ers through the prestigious Ma- rie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Fellow- ship Programme, under the EU Framework Programmes. The participation brings significant benefits to both the host institu- tion and to the researchers, fos- tering a mutually enriching envi- ronment for scientific excellence and innovation. Xjenza Malta provides dedicat- ed support, through the National Contact Point service, in attract- ing fellows and providing them with a dedicated proposal-writing masterclass, as well as assisting with the application process. An online information session will be held on 30 April 2025, in which speakers from the Europe- an Commission will provide Mal- tese researchers and stakeholders with further details of the MS- CA programme. You are invited to register here. In addition, the Postdoctoral Fellowship to Malta (PF2MT) masterclass will be held on 18 and 19 June this year, with travel grants available for eligible candidates holding post-doctor- ates who are based abroad. Find out more here. Why you should consider host- ing MSCA Postdoctoral Fellows: To advance research excellence The MSCA Postdoctoral Fel- lowship programme is designed to support the career develop- ment and training of researchers through international and inter- sectoral mobility. By hosting an MSCA Postdoctoral Fellow, your organisation gains access to cut- ting-edge research and innovative methodologies. This collabora- tion enhances our institution's research capabilities, allowing you to stay at the forefront of scientific advancements; To strengthen institutional repu- tation Participation in the MSCA pro- gramme elevates your recognition on a global scale. It demonstrates your commitment to fostering a vibrant research community, and your dedication to support the next generation of scientific lead- ers. This prestigious association attracts top-tier researchers and opens doors for further interna- tional collaborations and funding opportunities. To foster interdisciplinary col- laboration The MSCA Postdoctoral Fellow- ship encourages interdisciplinary research, bridging gaps across scientific fields. This approach not only broadens the scope of re- search, but also fosters a collabo- rative environment, where diverse ideas and perspectives converge. Your organisation will benefit from this dynamic exchange, lead- ing to innovative solutions and groundbreaking discoveries; To support researchers' career development For the researcher, the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship offers unparalleled opportunities for professional growth. Fellows gain valuable experience while work- ing in a new research environ- ment, acquiring new skills, and expanding their professional net- work. This experience significant- ly enhances their career prospects, making them highly competitive in the global job market; To access comprehensive train- ing and resources MSCA Fellows benefit from access to state-of-the-art facil- ities, comprehensive training programmes, and a supportive research community. This envi- ronment nurtures their develop- ment, enabling them to achieve their research goals, and to con- tribute meaningfully to their field of study; To promote knowledge transfer The MSCA programme pro- motes the transfer of knowledge and expertise between the host in- stitution and the researcher. This exchange enriches both parties, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. The in- sights and skills gained through this collaboration have a lasting impact, driving future research in- itiatives and advancements. To benefit from additional funding to applicants with Mal- ta-based organisations Hosting an MSCA Postdoctoral Fellow is a testament to your or- ganisation's commitment to re- search excellence and innovation. While the MSCA programme is highly competitive, there is ad- ditional funding available for ap- plicants who apply with a Mal- tese host organisation, and score above threshold. For more information about the MSCA Postdoctoral Fellowship programme, Horizon Europe and Xjenza Malta support schemes, please contact Lili Kankaya at lili.vasileva@gov.mt Unlock research excellence: Host an MSCA postdoctoral fellow in Malta THE forthcoming book event will be held at Gozo Central Public Li- brary, St. Francis Square, Victoria, on Wednesday, 26th March 2025, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am. The talk will be given in English and the event is free of charge. Everyone is welcome. Readers, authors and history lov- ers are invited to learn more about the craft of writing and research- ing a new crime fiction book set in Victorian-era Malta. Our guest speaker will talk about the historical research and influ- ences that have shaped her work, including her fascination with Victorian detectives. Themes of colonial rule, Malta's status as a military base, poverty and corruption will be explored as a backdrop to the murder mys- tery, as well as Maltese culture seen through the eyes of a Scot brought up in the Presbyterian Church. 'Death in Valletta', written by Malta-born Lynne Marie Taylor, is her first historical crime novel in a series of books set in the Maltese Islands of the 1880's. The book was published by Bloodhound Books in April 2024, and best-selling author Vaseem Khan, Chair of the Crime Writ- ers' Association, gave the book a 5-star review, calling it 'A well written and absorbing historical mystery'. Book your place- seat reserva- tions are encouraged by sending an email to eventsgozo.library@ gov.mt Book event: Historical crime fiction talk at Gozo library Leadership transition at GSD: Evolving leadership, elevating excellence GSD is pleased to announce changes in its strategic leader- ship. Ms. Maria Micallef, current CEO, will assume the role of Ex- ecutive Director, with Mark Far- rugia taking on the role of Gener- al Manager (GM). This transition reflects the Company's ongo- ing commitment to sustainable growth, operational excellence, and long-term business success. Maria Micallef: Strategic Leader- ship for Long-Term Growth With over 20 years of senior management experience, Ma- ria Micallef has played a pivotal role in driving GSD's success and business transformation. As CEO of The General Soft Drinks Co. Ltd., she has led key expansion initiatives, operational improve- ments, and corporate governance advancements. In her new role as Executive Director, Maria will fo- cus on long-term strategic initia- tives, ensuring that GSD remains at the forefront of innovation, in- dustry leadership, and sustaina- ble business practices. Maria is an accomplished leader across vari- ous industries ranging from avia- tion, insurance brokerage and re- tailing. In addition to her current role within GSD she is Executive Director at the Waterfront Hotel, as well as The Institute of English Language Studies. She also sits as a non-executive director on oth- er boards and also serves on the Board of Trustees for the Rich- mond Foundation. Mark Farrugia: Driving Opera- tional Excellence As he steps into the role of General Manager, Mark Farru- gia brings a strong background in sales, marketing, and business development. Having previous- ly served as GSD's Head of Sales and Marketing, Mark has been instrumental in enhancing mar- ket positioning, strengthening customer engagement, and driv- ing revenue growth. With his ex- pertise in market strategies, busi- ness expansion, and operational leadership, Mark will oversee dai- ly operations and departmental alignment, ensuring efficiency, performance optimization, and continued business success. Looking Ahead: A Future Built on Strength and Innovation This leadership transition rep- resents an important step in GSD's ongoing growth and de- velopment. With Maria Micallef providing strategic oversight as Executive Director and Mark Farrugia leading daily opera- tions as General Manager, GSD is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of excellence, inno- vation, and industry leadership. Together, their combined exper- tise will further strengthen GSD's commitment to innovation, op- erational excellence, and sustain- able growth.