After a rigorous external evaluation by an international panel of experts commissioned by the Ministry of Higher Education and Research (MESR), the final evaluation report on the FNR’s flagship PEARL and ATTRACT funding programmes has been published on the ministry’s website.
The evaluation unequivocally affirms the significant impact of PEARL and ATTRACT on Luxembourg’s research landscape, contributing to the internationalisation of its research ecosystem and elevating Luxembourg’s visibility in global scientific networks. These programmes have been instrumental in attracting top international researchers to Luxembourg and strengthening the country’s research capacity through interdisciplinary collaboration and the development of crucial research areas. However, as the research system matures, the report underscores the need for strategic adjustments to address evolving challenges.
In response to the evaluation, FNR remains fully committed to advancing these flagship programmes in alignment with the expert recommendations. The process of implementing improvements will begin immediately and continue over the next year in close collaboration with all stakeholders, with the changes taking effect from the 2026 performance contract.
Ministry’s Final Evaluation Report on PEARL and ATTRACT FNR position statement