ERDF funded ERA Chairs project SPACE-LV started

On 3rd January 2025, an agreement was signed withe the Central Finance and Contracting agency to launch European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) project SPACE-LV No. 1.1.1.5/2/24/A/004 “ERA Chair in Astrophysics, Instrumentation, Ground Segment Technologies and Space Photonics at the University of Latvia”, which is refinanced Horizon Europe ERA Chair project (Space-LV). Project period is 03.01.2025. – 30.09.2029. The selected ERA Chair - Prof. Bernard Foing. The budget of the project is EUR 2.5 million (85% covered by European Regional Development Fund and 15% covered by National Funding). The project was initially submitted to the Horizon Europe call "HORIZON-WIDERA-2022-TALENTS-01-01: ERA Chairs" and got the score above the threshold. 

The aim of the Space-LV project is to develop the astrophysics, instrument development, earth technology sector, and space photonics field at the University of Latvia (LU) under the leadership of high-level ERA scientist (ERA Chair) Dr. B. Foing. The project will involve fundamental and applied research, publication of scientific articles, submission of new projects, and dissemination of results. The research team will demonstrate outstanding scientific performance, establish international collaborations, and enhance LU’s global recognition. The project will drive structural changes at LU, ensuring research excellence and student involvement in research activities.