Marie Curie Individual Fellowship Grant Agreement: A Guide for Researchers
The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) is a program run by the European Commission to support researchers in mobility and career development. Under the MSCA, the Individual Fellowship (IF) is a prestigious grant that provides support for experienced researchers to conduct innovative research projects abroad.
If you are fortunate enough to receive an MSCA-IF grant, it is important to understand the grant agreement and your obligations as a researcher. In this article, we will provide a brief overview of the Marie Curie Individual Fellowship Grant Agreement.
What is the Marie Curie Individual Fellowship Grant Agreement?
The grant agreement is a legal document that outlines the rights and obligations of the researcher, the host institution, and the European Commission. It serves as a binding contract that sets the terms of the grant, including the budget, project objectives, and reporting requirements.
The grant agreement is typically signed by the researcher, the host institution, and the European Commission. It is important to read the agreement thoroughly and seek legal advice if necessary before signing it.
What are the obligations of the researcher?
As a recipient of an MSCA-IF grant, you are expected to fulfill a number of obligations. These may include:
1. Conducting the research project as outlined in the grant proposal and according to the highest ethical standards.
2. Maintaining regular communication with your host institution and the European Commission.
3. Submitting regular progress reports and financial statements to the European Commission.
4. Acknowledging the MSCA as a source of funding in publications and presentations.
5. Taking part in outreach and dissemination activities to promote the findings of your research.
It is important to note that failure to fulfill these obligations may result in the termination of the grant and the recovery of any funds already paid.
What are the obligations of the host institution?
The host institution plays a crucial role in supporting the researcher’s project and ensuring that the grant obligations are fulfilled. The host institution’s obligations may include:
1. Providing the necessary facilities and resources for the researcher to conduct their project.
2. Assigning a supervisor or mentor to the researcher to provide guidance and support.
3. Supporting the researcher with administrative tasks, such as visa applications and housing arrangements.
4. Ensuring that the researcher is aware of all relevant policies and regulations, including those related to health and safety, data protection, and intellectual property.
5. Submitting regular progress reports to the European Commission.
What is the role of the European Commission?
The European Commission is responsible for administering the Marie Curie Individual Fellowship grant and ensuring that the obligations of the researcher and host institution are fulfilled. The Commission’s role may include:
1. Assessing grant proposals and awarding grants to successful applicants.
2. Providing guidance and support to researchers and host institutions throughout the grant period.
3. Monitoring the progress of the research project and ensuring that the grant obligations are fulfilled.
4. Administering payments to the researcher and host institution.
5. Resolving disputes and issues that may arise during the grant period.
Conclusion
The Marie Curie Individual Fellowship Grant Agreement is an important document that sets out the terms and obligations of the grant recipient, host institution, and European Commission. It is essential that researchers read and understand the agreement thoroughly before signing it to ensure that they are able to fulfill their obligations and make the most of this prestigious grant opportunity.