More than 60 predoctoral researchers from POLYMAT actively participated in the recent PhD Day organized by the Faculty of Chemistry (University of the Basque Country), highlighting the strong presence and impact of the center within the doctoral training ecosystem in chemistry. The event brought together a large community of early-stage researchers and showcased the breadth and quality of ongoing research.

POLYMAT PhD candidates were not only widely represented among attendees, but also played a leading role in the scientific programme, contributing to more than 20 oral presentations across different sessions. This strong participation reflects the central role of POLYMAT in the training of doctoral researchers in chemistry, with more than half of the PhD Day participants currently carrying out their research at the center.

The scientific programme reflected a broad and balanced coverage of research areas, with strong contributions in sustainable polymers, advanced materials, rheology, synthetic chemistry and energy-related applications. Contributions in greener materials and processing, polymer design and characterization, and structure–property relationships were presented by Oihane Varela, Iosu Burgaña, Akshaya Maria Prasad, Johan Garcia, Pablo Morales, Iker Varona, Itziar Insua, Mario Martínez, Oihan Lamarins and Amirhossein Enayati.

Work in synthetic chemistry, catalysis and functional materials was represented by Martin Villamor, Irati Celada, Anje Mujika, Lisa Ebo, Helia Ventribout, Nerea Cirauqui and Asier de Santos, while energy-related materials and ionic/electronic transport were addressed by Iker Varona, Martin Trapero, Hussen Oumer and Idoia Camara. Many additional contributions were also presented.

POLYMAT would like to sincerely thank the Faculty of Chemistry (EHU) for the excellent organization of this event. Initiatives such as the PhD Day are essential to strengthen connections between researchers, foster collaboration, and promote the exchange of high-level scientific research among the next generation of scientists.