Scientific collaboration plays a vital role in developing innovative solutions and advancing research at an international level. CRoNoS Short Term Scientific Missions (STSM) provide researchers with opportunities to exchange knowledge, gain exposure to new techniques, and use facilities that may not be available in their home institutions. These missions serve as an important part of the CRoNoS COST Action and encourage both senior and early-career researchers to collaborate with institutions across participating COST countries.
Table of Contents
Purpose of STSM under CRoNoS
- Strengthening scientific collaboration between researchers from different COST countries.
- Allowing access to infrastructure, technology, or laboratories that are not available at the researcher’s home institution.
- Helping young researchers gain valuable exposure to international scientific environments.
- Encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration within the CRoNoS network.
- Providing opportunities to learn and share advanced methodologies.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
Selection is competitive and based on both academic merit and inclusiveness considerations.
- Candidate Background
- Open to researchers directly or indirectly involved in the CRoNoS COST Action.
- Young researchers and Early Career Investigators (ECI) are given special consideration.
- Evaluation Parameters
- Candidate’s curriculum vitae (CV).
- Research proposal and motivation.
- Alignment of the project with CRoNoS objectives.
- Inclusiveness criteria to ensure diversity in participation.
Duration of STSM
The length of an STSM depends on the researcher’s career stage.
| Category | Minimum Duration | Maximum Duration | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Researchers | 5 days | 90 days | Must be completed within a single Grant Period |
| Early Career Investigators (ECI) | 91 days | 180 days | Designed for longer-term training and collaboration |
- A Grant Period runs from 1st May to 30th April.
- The mission must take place entirely within the lifetime of the Action.
Financial Support for STSM
The grant is designed to assist with travel, accommodation, and meal expenses. It is not meant to cover all costs but to provide significant support.
| Type of Researcher | Daily Contribution | Travel Allowance | Maximum Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Researchers | €60–€90 per day | €300 | €2,500 |
| Early Career Investigators | €60–€90 per day | €300 | €3,500 |
- Final amounts are decided by the Core Management Group after evaluating the application.
- The location and duration of the mission also influence the final grant amount.
Application Process
A clear and structured application process ensures transparency.
- Step 1 – Online Form Submission
- Access the COST online STSM tool.
- Fill out the required details, including CV, work plan, and motivation.
- Step 2 – Document Preparation
- Submit the generated application form via email.
- Attach supporting documents such as:
- Full CV.
- Detailed work plan.
- Motivation letter.
- Proof of CRoNoS connection.
- Step 3 – Approval Process
- The host institution confirms agreement to host the applicant.
- Application reviewed by the MC Chair for evaluation and approval.
- Step 4 – Confirmation
- Applicant receives confirmation of approval and grant details.
Final Reporting Requirements
After completing the mission, researchers must submit the required documents within four weeks.
- Host Confirmation Letter – Validates mission dates and work performed.
- Scientific Report – Outlines key outcomes and progress, including:
- Purpose of the STSM.
- Description of research activities.
- Main results achieved.
- Future collaboration possibilities.
- Expected research outputs such as publications or presentations.
- Presentation Requirement – The Researcher may present findings to their CRoNoS Working Group.
- Online Submission – All reports must also be uploaded to the COST online platform.
The grant is finalized only after successful approval of the report.
Key Benefits of STSM for Researchers
- Access to Resources
- Opportunity to use advanced infrastructure and labs not available at home institutions.
- International Collaboration
- Building strong partnerships with scientists from other COST countries.
- Skill Development
- Learning new methods and techniques.
- Career Growth
- Increased visibility within the research community.
- Special long-term opportunities for Early Career Investigators.
- Publication Potential
- Enhancing the chances of producing high-quality research outputs.
Comparison of Standard Researchers and Early Career Investigators (ECI)
| Aspect | Standard Researchers | Early Career Investigators (ECI) |
|---|---|---|
| Eligibility | Any researcher linked to CRoNoS | Researchers within 8 years of a PhD |
| Duration | 5–90 days | 91–180 days |
| Maximum Grant | €2,500 | €3,500 |
| Focus | Short-term skill exchange and collaboration | Long-term training and integration into networks |
Current Call Details
- Deadline for Application – Open call.
- Deadline for Completion – All STSMs must end by 30 April 2019.
- Action Number – IC1408.
Practical Tips for Applicants
- Prepare a strong CV highlighting research experience and achievements.
- Clearly define the work plan and how it contributes to CRoNoS goals.
- Seek a host institution early to avoid last-minute approval delays.
- Ensure alignment between the proposal and CRoNoS objectives.
- Be ready to provide a concise but comprehensive scientific report after completion.
Impact of CRoNoS STSM on the Research Community
- Knowledge Sharing – Encourages exchange of techniques and methodologies across countries.
- Inclusiveness – Promotes diversity by supporting researchers from underrepresented groups.
- Innovation – Helps integrate new ideas into existing projects.
- Networking – Creates a strong scientific network within and beyond Europe.
- Sustainability – Builds long-term collaborations that may continue after the mission.
Key Takeaways
CRoNoS Short Term Scientific Missions act as bridges between researchers, institutions, and countries. Opportunities offered through STSM strengthen knowledge exchange, promote inclusiveness, and provide researchers with access to advanced tools and expertise. The program particularly benefits young scientists by expanding their career opportunities and enabling them to contribute to international research networks. CRoNoS STSM stands as a vital initiative to foster collaboration, innovation, and long-term scientific partnerships.
