For more information, please consult the 2008 Framework 7 People Work Programme
Definition of an Early-stage researcher
Early Stage Researchers are defined as those who are, at the time of selection
by the host institution, in the first four years (full-time equivalent) of their
research careers. This is measured from the date when they obtained the
degree which would formally entitle them to embark on a doctorate, either in the
country in which the degree was obtained or in the country in which the research
training is provided, irrespective of whether or not a doctorate is envisaged.
Conditions of nationality and mobility of researchers
- Researchers are normally required to undertake trans-national mobility (i.e. move from one country to another) when taking up their appointment. Two general rules apply to the appointment of researchers in a network:
- Researchers can be nationals of any country other than the country of the premises of the host organisation where they will carry out their project; however nationals of countriesoutside the EU and Associated States can only be recruited by hosts that are located in Member States or Associated States.
- Researchers must not have resided or carried out their main activity (work, studies, etc.) in the country of the host for more than 12 months in the 3 years immediately prior to their
- recruitment. This rule does not apply in cases where a researcher is subsequently appointed in another node of the same network within the same country.