FP5 scheme finds positions for young researchers in industry
The first young researchers selected under the European Commission's new Marie Curie Industry Host fellowship scheme are currently being recruited by European companies. It is expected that 330 pre- and post-doctoral research training placements will become available in companies around Europe this year. Ultimately 15,000 positions are likely to be supported by the scheme over the next two to three years. The Marie Curie Industry Host Fellowship scheme provides research-training opportunities for young researchers, allowing EU companies to develop structured links with academic institutions. Following the launch of the first call for proposals in 1999, 154 contracts have been earmarked for signature between the European Commission and selected companies. To facilitate the participation of SMEs, small companies without the resources to train young researchers on site may place fellows with a research partner outside their company. The special measure has allowed 31 SMEs to be selected for funding, and it is expected this number will rise in the future. Feedback received from companies already recruiting through the scheme has indicated a high level of satisfaction with the quality of researchers applying for these Marie Curie positions.