Supporting EU-Latin American researcher mobility
The AMBER (American bridge for the excellence in research with Europe) project worked to increase researcher mobility between Latin American countries (LACs) and Europe. The overall objective was to reinforce the EURAXESS Network by integrating and developing European science, technology and innovation through global exchange and intercontinental mobility. Participating ESCs exchanged best practices, and launched a EURAXESS jobs' campaign to maximise visibility amongst European and LAC researchers. Partners and institutions gathered the information needed to help improve and increase mobility. In the form of analyses, evaluations, proposals and manuals, this information is of practical use to the entire EURAXESS Network. For example, the Manual on Best Practices Mobility proposes actions and measures to minimise barriers related to researchers' mobility, and can help institutions meet problems in attracting talent. One funding initiative undertaken by the partner British Council has contributed to an increased flow of researchers between the United Kingdom and four LACs. This also bodes well for longer-term, sustainable relationships established at the group and institutional level. Targeted actions helped provide continuity to researchers developing their activity in Europe, facilitated the return of European investigators and attracted high-skilled scientists. Dissemination took place through Web 2.0 technologies and social media accounts. This also facilitated interaction and collaboration with researchers and institutions. At the same time, promotional materials were produced to increase AMBER's visibility and a dossier of success cases was shared through the EURAXESS Network as an example of how its services can help researchers eyeing a career in Europe. AMBER eliminated mobility obstacles, fostered EU-LAC cooperation and strengthened EURAXESS Network activities, thus promoting Europe as an attractive destination for highly skilled researchers.
Keywords
Researcher mobility, Latin American Countries, 'science, technology and innovation'
