Promotion of transnational research in Andalusia
The goal of the U-MOBILITY (Fostering researcher mobility in the University of Málaga) project was to foster transnational mobility and international cooperation among the local and regional research communities. This was achieved by promoting the professional development of experienced researchers in an international environment in collaboration with the University of Málaga. The programme was set in motion with a public call to finance up to 12 post-doctoral work contracts to carry out a research project that will take place in two phases. The initial outgoing phase of 18 to 24 months took place in a host research centre outside of Spain, while the return phase of 9 to 12 months was at the University of Malaga. To obtain these contracts, candidates had to meet the requirements of the programme and submit the required documentation, in the manner and time specified in the call and in the applicant's guide. In addition, the applicant’s proposal was submitted with the endorsement of a researcher from the university of Malaga. Prospective researchers were free to choose a project of their choice. However, the candidates needed to demonstrate how the project would contribute to the comprehensive professional development of the researcher and the establishment of international collaborative networks. U-MOBILITY received 48 applications, 44 of which passed the evaluation stage. The remaining proposals were then evaluated by independent international experts sitting on four panels. The distribution of the proposals, according to research discipline, was: 43 % in experimental sciences, 34 % in engineering, 18 % in social sciences and humanities, and 5 % in economic sciences. This programme will help to break down barriers to the mobility of researchers. Fellows will gain experience and independence, fostering long-term collaborations with research groups at the University of Malaga, thereby increasing its international visibility. The initiative is also aligned with international and forthcoming national science policies.
Keywords
Transnational, university of Málaga, researchers, U-MOBILITY, mobility
