Circle U. Postdoc Mobility Programme

1. What is the duration of the mobility period?

A: The expected mobility period ranges from min. 5 days, including days for travelling. The maximum stay duration is 20 workdays.

2. Can the mobility period be extended?

A: Extensions may be considered on own costs, but the funding will not be increased.

3. Are there any restrictions on the countries or institutions I can choose for my mobility?

A: Yes, mobility in this scheme is only possible within the CU network.

4. Can I apply if I have not yet completed my PhD?

A: Yes. However, at the time of mobility, you must be a postdoc. To prove this to be the case, please have your (future) supervisor attend to this in the letter of consent from the sending institution.

5. How is the lump paid?

A: The payment will be made by the central CU office based in Brussels according to the procedures as published on the website. It is paid as lump sum additionally to the usual salary.

6. What does the funding cover?

A: The funding is intended to cover travel, subsistence and accommodation costs. The funding is awarded as lump sum, not according to actual receipts, but the mobility itself must be proven.

7. Is health insurance included in the funding?

A: No, health insurance coverage must be covered by other sources. It is assumed that applicants are and remain employed by their current institutions during their research stay abroad.

8. Will the funding sum be taxed?

A: This depends on your local laws. It is the applicant’s responsibility to clarify.

9. Can I bring my family with me during the mobility period?

A: Yes, however the mobility scheme is intended to cover only the expenses for the researcher. Additional costs for family members must be borne by the researcher or other means.

10. Is it allowed to have a second funding source?

A: Double funding is not permitted. However, additional funding can be used to extend the stay.

11. How do I find a suitable host institution?

A: Applicants are encouraged to use their academic networks and reach out to potential mentors and institutions directly. Additionally, you can browse the Academic Directory.

12. What should be included in the letter of invitation from the host institution?

A: The letter should include an expression of willingness to host the postdoctoral researcher and the interest to support the submission of a funding application together with the postdoc. It should the postdoc fits the host’s research indicate at least some familiarity with the postdoc’s prior research and should reflect on how agenda.

13. Can I apply for this scheme if I have previously participated in another mobility scheme?

A: Yes, previous participation in other mobility schemes does not disqualify you from applying, provided you meet the eligibility criteria.

14. What language should the application materials be submitted in?

A: All application materials must be submitted in English.

15. Can I change my hosting institution or hosting research group after submission?

A: No. Changes of the host require a new application.

16. Are there any reporting requirements during or after the mobility period?

A: Yes, after the mobility. Participants must submit a confirmation of stay, the template will be provided by the coordinator of the program.

17. What criteria are used to evaluate the applications?

A: Applications are evaluated based on the quality of the applicant, the potential and clarity for career development, the strength of the support letters, and alignment with the scheme’s objectives.

18. How competitive is the application process?

A: The programme is intended to be competitive, but as this is a new CU initiative, it is difficult to estimate the number of applications. However, we encourage applicants to prepare their proposals well and in line with the objectives of the programme.

19. Can the mobility period be split into multiple shorter stays?

A: The mobility period is intended to be continuous, but in exceptional cases, split stays may be considered. However, the funding will not increase.

20. How will I know if my application is successful?

A: Successful applicants will be notified by email as published on the website of the call. Further instructions and details will be provided at that time.

21. How often can I apply?

A: Every applicant can apply only once per call. There are no other limitations foreseen.

22. Are there any limitation with respect to the receiving mentors?

A: No, mentors can receive as many postdocs as they want if they are also committed to support all respective  funding application of all the hosted postdocs.

23. Who must write and sign the letter of the current institution?

A: The letter should be written and signed by a senior researcher or PI, who has in depth knowledge of the applicant’s qualities and achievements to be able to provide concrete recommendations in her/his letter.

24. Will I be reimbursed or will the money be transferred to my current institution?

A: The lump sum will be paid directly to the applicant's private bank account.

25. Is there a way to ask for prefinancing before the mobility?

A: The lump sum will in any case be paid 4 weeks before the start of mobility.

26. How do I know if my current employment status allows me to apply?

A: As employment status can vary and funding programmes have different rules for mobility or stays abroad, this needs to be checked carefully. Please check with your current PI whether mobility is allowed before submitting your application.

27. Are there any special obligations for the receiving host beyond the support letter?

A: The host must commit to exploring opportunities for future collaboration with the applicant, ideally through the acquisition of third-party funding. After the mobility, the host will be asked to complete a short questionnaire.