Early-career researchers (ECRs)—PhDs and postdocs—face uncertainty, intense competition, and mounting pressures. The demand for publications, limited career guidance, and lack of industry experience take a toll on both career opportunities and well-being. More than ever, ECRs struggle with stress, poor work-life balance, and burnout. Amidst this challenging reality, DLN has been a beacon of support, helping ECRs in life sciences and biotechnology navigate these difficulties.
DLN built a thriving research community
Established as a collaborative project between Norway’s leading research institutions, DLN addressed the needs of ECRs in ways no single institution could have achieved alone. Through its Research School (RS), DLN provided training in technical, soft, and career-development skills to ECRs from member institutions. It facilitated industry internships for both PhDs and, more recently, postdocs, offering hands-on experience and strategic networking opportunities. Importantly, DLNRS also prioritized mental health, integrating discussions on stress management and burnout prevention into its activities. Travel grants ensured that these opportunities were accessible to a diverse group of ECRs, particularly those with limited institutional support. Above all, DLN built a thriving research community—one where ECRs grew together, supported one another, and found a true sense of belonging.
The DLN Junior Resource Group (JRG)–a representative body of ECRs from various Norwegian universities–highlighted DLN’s impact on their career journeys:
“DLN transformed my perspective on research in Norway, bringing a sense of shared experience and emotional support through their networking events.” - Rohit
“DLN workshops have honed my communication skills, and career development talks helped me navigate the life science job market in Norway.” - Yomki
“DLN is a unique ecosystem to me, providing support in travel grants, industry internships, and innovation pathways. No other organization or institution offers this support.” - Arsenii
“DLN changed my perspective of life science in Norway. DLN performed the hardest task of connecting members with scattered and varied expertise.” - Olga
“My participation in DLN courses, like NorMIC and various scientific writing courses formed a key component of my PhD training.” - Thomas
“DLN boosted my confidence as a course designer by funding summer schools, enabling me to successfully design courses for the Utforsk Call's cross-country educational initiatives.” - Samir
“DLN is a hub for transdisciplinary collaboration, open science, and responsible innovation. It provided networking, training, and leadership opportunities, supporting my growth as a researcher.” - Selma
“DLN has helped me recognize my value as a PhD-level professional, expand my career opportunities, enhance my skills, acquire new skills, network, and build friendships.” - Gustavo
Who will fill this void?
Originally planned as a five-year initiative (2016–2021), DLN was extended for another five years due to its immense impact on Norwegian biotechnology research and ECR development. Now, all this support—and the community DLN created—will come to an end when funding for the national centre expires in January 2026. Without institutional commitment and governmental support to build on DLN’s legacy, a huge void will emerge in the Norwegian research and talent development landscape. As representatives of the ECRs, we ask: Who will fill this void?
To decision-makers
If Norway aims to diversify its economy and remain competitive in life sciences and biotechnology, it must continue investing in ECRs. We need structured support for career development, networking, and industry collaboration. The question is: Who will step up to continue DLN’s mission?
The Junior Resource Group of Digital Life Norway:
Gustavo A. Agudelo Cantero - UiO
Rohit Agarwal - UiT
Olga Mikhailova - NMBU
Arsenii Zabirnyk - OUS
Selma Bozorgpana - NTNU
Thomas Stevenson - UiB
Samir Malakar - UiT
Yomkippur Perez - Polypure AS / UiS