June 2025- Report- Early Career Network
The Early Career Network (ECN) has defined its central theme for 2024–2026 as “Sleep in the Age of Technology.” This theme frames a number of ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening engagement and visibility for early career professionals within the sleep research and sleep medicine communities.
One of the core actions under this theme is the development of a dual LinkedIn presence: an open group designed to welcome early career individuals, including those who are not yet ESRS members, and a closed group intended to support collaboration, the sharing of job opportunities, and research proposal discussions.
The ECN is also preparing two upcoming webinars, conducting a joint survey in collaboration with the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Committee (EDIC), and considering the introduction of ECN Recognition Awards to acknowledge contributions from early career researchers.
In parallel, the ECN is reviewing its internal structure and working procedures. Specific areas identified include the need for improved clarity regarding communication channels, event planning coordination, and visibility of ECN activities within the broader ESRS calendar. Strengthening connections with clinical sleep professionals and improving data management, particularly the identification of ECN members, remain priorities.
Lieve van Egmond, Member of ECN