ATHENA’s BlendEd Teams Presented Final Pitches at VILNIUS TECH

We present a new VILNIUS TECH electronic publication, „Film Project Management: Planning, Production and Distribution“ („Kino projektų valdymas: planavimas, gamyba ir platinimas“). The authors of the publication are Tomas Mitkus and Vaida Nedzinskaitė-Mitkė. The publication „Film Project Management: Planning, Production and Distribution“  is a comprehensive guide for those who wish to understand the essence and intricacies of implementing film projects. It provides the reader with an in-depth introduction to the creative process—from the development of an idea and financing to film production, distribution, and presentation to audiences. The textbook examines the main areas of activity in the film industry, with particular attention to the practices and financing models of the Lithuanian and European film industries, contrasting them with the Hollywood model. The textbook is intended for students, emerging creators, and professionals seeking a deeper understanding of contemporary film management and its application in the industry. The book is written in Lithuanian. E-book >>>

The first meeting for this year's newly enrolled PhD students at VILNIUS TECH has taken place. It was not only an opportunity to get acquainted with this new academic stage but also to hear some simple yet important advice that will prove useful throughout the four years of doctoral studies. Welcoming the new doctoral students, the Vice-Rector for Research and Innovation, Prof. Dr. Dalius Navakauskas, encouraged them not to be afraid of trying new things and not to limit themselves solely to their direct dissertation topics. Engaging in projects, collaborating with researchers from other fields, or taking on new activities can provide opportunities to learn teamwork, acquire new competencies, and gain a clearer understanding of the career path they wish to pursue in the future. The Vice-Rector also urged the PhD students to look beyond their immediate circles and network with international colleagues, utilize the university’s available and continuously updated infrastructure, try their hand at teaching, and—crucially on this academic journey—not be afraid to ask for help. He concluded his speech with an inspiring quote by American track and field athlete Jim Ryun: "Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going." Meanwhile, the Director of the Doctoral School, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Skirmantė Mozūriūnaitė, shared practical advice beneficial to every student: first and foremost, do not leave things to the last minute and address emerging challenges promptly; write down thoughts and ideas as soon as they arise so they are not forgotten. Additionally, if other commitments arise, do not postpone your studies, as the university offers excellent opportunities to balance academic work with everyday life. Another vital piece of advice is to actively communicate with one another, network, and build interdisciplinary connections, which are becoming increasingly important in modern science. This year, 49 new PhD students are beginning their doctoral studies at VILNIUS TECH, including 10 international students, with five having secured positions funded by the Research Council of Lithuania (LMT). Additionally, three postdoctoral fellowship positions funded by LMT were secured this year. Between January and mid-September, 26 dissertation defenses took place, with a total of 34 defenses planned for this calendar year. Furthermore, 107 short-term and long-term academic visits were conducted between January and mid-September.