A long-term evaluation of the Framework Programmes (FPs) released by the European Commission has found that there is a line up of ‘usual suspects’ who win funding for their research. The evidence in ‘Understanding the Long-term Impact of the Framework Programme’  shows how difficult it is to become a Coordinator, and adds to the message that you should start your EU career as a Partner in a Consortium bid rather than as a Coordinator. But the good message is that once you have gained FP funding, you are more likely to be successful again, showing that while it may take some time to build up to being a Coordinator, in the long run this is a wise move.

A conference held in Warwick at the end of last month also warned that Europe’s universities are planning an ‘application onslaught’ on Horizon 2020 to make up for national budget cuts. Speakers at the European University Association’s (EUA) annual conference revealed the survey results that 74% of EUA members plan to apply for more EU funding for their institutions in the next 5 years – “With so many more players hoping to get EU funding only those who know how to deal with the system will be successful,” says Thomas Estermann, the EUA’s head of funding, who compiled the survey. “Horizon 2020 will just not be big enough”.  

As more universities apply for funding, it is even more important to get your foot in the door now so you can become of their ‘usual suspects’ for funding.  If you want any advice on starting your EU career, drop me an email and I can discuss this with you further