PeopleNetwork+ · Trans-national Cooperation among NCPs (NCP)

The PEOPLE Programme under FP7 aims to strengthen the human potential in research and technology in Europe, by stimulating people to take up the profession of researchers, encouraging European researchers to stay in Europe, and attracting to Europe the best researchers from the entire world. The international dimension is well addressed by the Marie Curie Actions (MCAs) by providing a number of opportunities for Third Country researchers and organizations to collaborate with their European counterparts. While EU researchers and research organisations are generally aware of the opportunities provided by PEOPLE, there is still a need for wide promotion of MCAs to the scientific communities in Third Countries. This is important not only for the exchange of knowledge with those countries, but as an opportunity to attract researchers to Europe, and increase its scientific potential for facilitating the achievement of the ERA goals. In this respect the role played by National Contact Points (NCPs), as providers of information and assistance to potential applicants and contractors in on-going PEOPLE funded projects, is crucial. NCPs bridge the European and international research communities in order to raise awareness about the funding opportunities of MCAs, to advise and assist potential applicants in the preparation, submission and follow-up of grant applications, and to offer support during the execution of projects, especially with respect to the management and administrative aspects of projects. In this context, PeopleNetwork+ will focus on sharing good practices and promoting trans-national co-operation, by strengthening closer cooperation among PEOPLE National Contact Points. PeopleNetwork+ will facilitate the improvement of the overall quality of NCP services across and outside Europe in the area of mobility and increase the transparency of EU fellowships and training opportunities to ensure equal access for all, and it will serve as a bridge to the new programming of MSCA under H2020.