Obuda University has entered a new phase in its commitment to research excellence with the renewal of its Distinguished Programme. At a formal ceremony on 8 September, the nine researchers selected for the 2026 programme signed their contracts for the next four-year period, marking the beginning of a strengthened long-term collaboration coordinated by the University Research and Innovation Center (EKIK).  

Launched in 2022, the Distinguished Programme was established to recognise outstanding research performance and integrate the knowledge, experience and international networks of leading researchers into the University’s academic and scientific community. In 2026, nine Hungarian and international researchers received recognition across three categories: Distinguished Professor, Consolidator Researcher and Starting Excellence Researcher.  

The renewed programme introduces a stronger emphasis on long-term professional planning and the continuous monitoring of research outcomes. The new four-year project period is structured around clearly defined professional objectives, tasks and milestones, complemented by regular reporting to support researchers’ progress and ensure the long-term impact of their work.  

At the same time, the programme has sharpened its scientific focus. Priority research areas now include artificial intelligence, control theory, cyber-medical systems, robotics, intelligent systems and innovation management. The renewed framework also offers greater flexibility for involving international researchers, further supporting the University’s ambition to strengthen its global scientific network.  

The contract signing therefore represents more than the formal recognition of this year’s awardees: it marks the beginning of a new four-year professional partnership. Through the renewed Excellence Programme, EKIK aims to bring together Hungarian and international expertise, stimulate new research activities and scientific communities, and create new opportunities for international collaboration. In doing so, the programme continues to strengthen Obuda University’s research and innovation ecosystem and its international scientific presence.