The aim of a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) shall be to contribute to the scientific objectives of a COST Action.
The Action has a budget for financing STSMs.

These Missions (Exchange Visits) are aimed at strengthening the existing networks by allowing scientists to go to an institution or laboratory in another COST member state to foster collaboration, to learn a new technique, etc. They are particularly intended for young scientists.

Procedure

The procedure concerning STSMs is based on the COST Vademecum. However, our Action operates under the grant system, which streamlines operations and makes many provisions of the Vademecum obsolete. Below is a simplified version of the rules. In particular, all decisions about STSMs of our Action are carried out by the STSM committee (currently: Sophia Drossopoulou, Shmuel Tyszberowicz, and Bernhard Beckert). All questions about STSMs shall be currently directed to Bernhard Beckert.

Duration

Minimum one week (5 working days), maximum 3 months. For Early Stage Researchers (less than PhD + 10 years) an extension to a duration beyond 3 months may be approved, but normally not more than 6 months in total.

Financial Support

The financial contribution for an STSM is a fixed grant based on the Applicant's budget request and the evaluation of the application by the STSM assessment committee. An amount of EUR 60 to 90 for the daily allowance in particular for longer stays and EUR 300 for the travel is recommended but not obligatory. The total of an STSM shall normally not exceed EUR 2,500.

Application

To apply please use the ESF form. Furthermore, the Applicant should send a full CV and a detailed work plan to the Action Secretary.