This newsletter features EU research and innovation funding and policy news items. Updates on the European Research Council (ERC) are covered via the separate ERC National Contact Point (NCP) newsletter which is jointly provided by KoWi and the EU Bureau of the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).

Advanced materials, particularly in the areas of energy, mobility, construction and electronics, are key for the EU to achieve the green & digital transition, increase EU resilience and realise open strategic autonomy. In a communication from 27 February, the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Research and Innovation establishes the objective for a dynamic, secure and inclusive materials ecosystem in Europe. As part of its implementation plan, it names 14 actions along five pillars:

German entities using the model employment contracts in accordance with section 611 BGB (German Civil Code) for their MSCA fellows can now access an English reading versions of these contract templates. The English versions can be provided to fellows to help explain their employment contract. In addition, minor conceptual adjustments have been made to the German contract templates.

The model employment contracts according to § 611 BGB take into account the requirements of the European Commission and make it possible to cover the allowances used in the MSCA programme through the fellows' salary. Possible funding gaps that could arise due to the use of recruitment contracts according to TV-L/TVöD are thus avoided. The model contracts serve as a non-binding guidance. A legal review must be carried out by the employing institution in any case when using the sample texts (even individual sections).

The working group that created the models is coordinated by KoWi and the German MSCA National Contact Point (NCP). It includes representatives from the Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg and the Federal Working Group of EU Officers at Universities in Germany (BAK), the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and the University of Duisburg-Essen.

On 23 and 24 April 2024, KoWi and the National Contact Point Society are jointly organising a seminar in Brussels on EU research funding and policy. This new event format is aimed specifically at social scientists and humanities scholars at German institutions with an interest in the topics mentioned. 

Speakers from the European Commission, the executive agency REA and other institutions will provide an in-depth insight into EU research funding/policy and provide background knowledge on Horizon Europe with a focus on the implementation of Cluster 2 "Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society".

Participants will learn about overarching research policy structures, processes and communication channels in Brussels, as well as other opportunities for participation - such as working as a reviewer.

The seminar is designed for researchers with experience in the EU Research Framework Program as well as those interested in participating in the programme in the future. However, basic knowledge of the structure and programme components of Horizon Europe and Horizon 2020 is required.

The course languages are German and English.

On 18 April 2024 (10 a.m. to 5 p.m), KoWi together with the Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (HNEE) and the EU Network of Expertise of Brandenburg universities is organising the one-day information event "Research in Europe".

At "Research in Europe" you will get first-hand information regarding support or funding opportunities for your next career steps at all stages of your academic career. Many important German research and research funding organizations will present their portfolio: from doctoral scholarships and research professorships to large international collaborative projects. In addition, you can discuss individual questions with representatives of the institutions and testimonials at information stands. The Polish National Agency for Academic Exchange (NAWA) will also provide information on research stays in Poland.

The event is primarily aimed at researchers at universities in Brandenburg, but is also open to other interested researchers. Participation is free of charge. The event will be held in English.

Registration will open on 7 March and will be possible via the following link.