UM Research Call on Circularity

Maastricht University is launching a new research call focused on circularity, starting in May 2025. This initiative is part of UM’s commitment to accelerating the transition to a maximum circular campus and society by 2035. The call is designed to stimulate interdisciplinary collaboration, support innovative research, and translate circular thinking into tangible societal impact.

The circular economy is not only about reducing waste—it’s about redesigning systems to eliminate waste altogether by applying strategies such as reuse, repair, repurpose, and recycling. Through this call, we encourage researchers to explore circularity in a broad range of contexts: from materials science and urban planning to business models, policy, and behavioral change. Projects may be theoretical or applied, as long as they contribute to the knowledge, practices, or conditions that support a more circular world.

The call will be open to all faculties, but particular emphasis will be placed on cross-faculty collaborations. Successful proposals will receive financial support to explore circular topics in new and creative ways. Researchers will be encouraged to connect with societal partners, industry, or public institutions to ensure the research has real-world relevance and impact.

This research call marks an important step in making UM a hub for circular innovation and knowledge. By fostering bold ideas and interdisciplinary teamwork, we aim to drive the circular transition from the heart of our academic community.