Much-touted research program canceled after mounting criticism

The Education Ministry has halted the “Trust Your Stars” probe programme aft a Finance Ministry determination tied to revisions of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan.

Launched successful '22 with €80 million, the programme aimed to boost university probe done grants to early-career scientists and collaborations. A telephone successful April 2024 drew 1,241 proposals; 145 were approved aft a two-month reappraisal by a 12-member committee.

The results triggered backlash from academics, who alleged opaque procedures, rushed evaluations and use of artificial quality by nonspecialists. In August 2025, 875 scientists wrote to the premier curate criticizing “evaluation connected the fly.” By that time, 203 rejected applicants had filed appeals, while researchers contacted the European Public Prosecutor. Critics said appeals were ne'er processed.

The ministry said the task was removed under an EU decision. Officials said nary funds were disbursed and allocations will instrumentality to the nationalist concern budget, leaving the inaugural seen arsenic a mislaid opportunity.