The Transport Research Centre is launching NOVA—return grants for researchers returning from a career break (maternity/paternity leave, caregiving, illness). We offer flexibility, a childcare allowance, a mentor, and team support. Pick up right where you left off!
Returning to cutting-edge research after an extended break takes courage. Whether your hiatus was due to maternity or parental leave, caring for a loved one, or a long-term illness, we at the Transport Research Center (CDV) know that your potential hasn’t disappeared. It just needs the right push to get back on track.
That’s why we’re launching the NOVA project—CDV Return Grants—which is a game-changer. We don’t want you to have to choose between family (or health) and science. We want both.
What does the Return Grant offer you?
Instead of the complicated search for a spot in existing teams, we’re putting a tool in your hands to carry out your own research project. You’re the principal investigator; you set the direction. We’ll provide you with the support and conditions that understand your life situation:
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Funding for childcare: We know that daycare centers are overcrowded. As one of the few institutions, we offer the option within the grant to receive a subsidy for childcare (until the start of compulsory schooling) or for a close relative. We will pay for a private daycare center or childcare group so you can focus on your work.
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Flexibility First: You don’t have to jump right into a full-time role. The grant allows for positions starting at 0.5 FTE. This way, you can tailor your work to fit your schedule.
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You won’t be on your own: Every return to work is difficult. That’s why we’ll provide you with a mentor and a support team of experts. We’ll also help you with administrative tasks, which will be handled by our project economists and coordinators.
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Room for growth: The grant includes funding for your education and the option (not an obligation) of international mobility, if your family situation allows it.
Who is the grant intended for?
We are looking for researchers (Ph.D. students or graduates) who have taken a career break of at least 6 months (e.g., due to maternity/paternity leave, caring for a loved one, or illness).
This opportunity is open not only to our current employees but also to new talent from outside the organization. If you’re looking for a place where cutting-edge transportation research meets HR Award principles and a family-friendly approach, you’ve just found it.
Your return to science starts now
Don’t start from scratch. Pick up where you left off and take it even further. Interested in this opportunity? Follow our career page or reach out to our HR department.
Contact:
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Iveta Pešková
HR Specialist, HR Award Admin 
This project is co-financed by the European Union under the Jan Amos Comenius Operational Program.