New plant science researchers trained Researchers have developed a researcher training programme and significantly contributed to growing the skills of plant scientists in the EU. Food and Natural Resources © Mediaphotos, Shutterstock The EU-funded project PLANT FELLOWS (The international post doc fellowship programme in plant sciences) set out to establish a training and qualification framework in the area of life-long learning and vocational training. The team structured the training to complement the present postdoctoral training in plant sciences with a new international dimension. PLANT FELLOWS worked to deliver trained people in the EU to respond to changing needs in, for example, plant-based energy production and sustainable land use. The team promoted cross-disciplinary interactions and transnational mobility to give fellows access to novel expertise in plant research. The team worked to make research in plant sciences more attractive to researchers by increasing the transnational mobility of postdoctoral researchers. PLANT FELLOWS grew to become a successful and vibrant fellowship programme. The researchers noticed increasing interest from scientists all over the world and published four international calls. Over 120 evaluators from 21 countries guaranteed an open, fair and transparent selection process. The project enabled 32 experienced researchers from EU Member States and associated and third countries to be hosted in Switzerland. PLANT FELLOWS allowed five Member State nationals who had carried out research in a Third Country for at least three years to reintegrate into the programme. PLANT FELLOWS established the first European Training and Career Development Programme in plant sciences for postdocs. The team offered high-quality training and outstanding career development options in accordance with requirements of different sectors from academia to industry. Programme fellows had access to a pool of 24 mentors, experienced plant science researchers with outstanding impact in European research. The training provided certification as groundwork for future appointments. PLANT FELLOWS used a Gender Action Plan to monitor gender equality at all levels and increase the number of women in senior decision-making research positions. The programme hosted 50 % female fellows, 20 % female evaluators and 40 % female mentors, and 4 fellows took up parental care through part-time fellowships. The contacts made now will build a basis for future multidisciplinary collaborations, and provide the basis for long-term networking. PLANT FELLOWS will make a lasting impact on EU plant sciences at all levels. Keywords Plant science, researcher training, PLANT FELLOWS, postdoctoral fellowship
