The European Reform University Alliance (ERUA) is excited to announce a call for applications for the formation of research clusters. This initiative aims to foster collaborative, interdisciplinary research across the ERUA network and beyond. The deadline for applications is 10 October 2024.

Composition Requirements:

1. Minimum Number of Members: Each research cluster must consist of at least 5 researchers.
2. Early-Stage Researcher: At least one member should be classified as an early-stage researcher (First Stage Researcher (R1) or Recognised Researcher (R2) under the European Research Career framework).
3. Principal Investigator: At least one researcher must assume the role of Principal Investigator (PI).
4. Interdisciplinary Composition: The cluster must facilitate interdisciplinary research.
5. External Researchers: Clusters can include external researchers from outside ERUA to foster broader collaboration and access to diverse expertise.

The composition of the cluster may evolve over time to meet research needs. However, these changes should not compromise compliance with the minimum requirements for the cluster’s establishment.

Collaboration Experience:

• Prior Collaboration: Members should demonstrate prior collaboration experience through joint academic workshops, research projects, publications, or other research collaborations.
• Study Activities: While common activities in the field of study provide additional context, the emphasis should be on activities where researchers worked together towards shared research goals, producing tangible outcomes.

Thematic Areas:

Research clusters should address a specific topic within one of the specified ERUA thematic areas, including but not limited to:

• Migration, Exile, and Refugees
• Democracy, Human Rights
• Inclusion & Gender Equality
• Interculturality and Multilingualism
• Arts and Edges

Interdisciplinary Collaboration:

Clusters are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering interactions among researchers from various academic disciplines and fields of expertise. This approach enables comprehensive exploration of the chosen thematic area and the generation of innovative solutions.

Application Requirements:

• Preliminary Research Agenda: The application must include a preliminary research agenda outlining the cluster’s collaboration goals and objectives for a specific 2-year period. This agenda should detail planned research activities, expected sustainable outcomes, and potential areas for external funding applications.
• Application Procedure: Please fill in the form to apply for recognition as an ERUA research cluster: [LINK]. The Council of the Vice-rectors of Research will make the final decision on recognition by the end of October.

Added Value for Researchers:

• Visibility and Prestige: Elevation of the researcher’s profile and impact within the European research community and beyond.
• Dedicated Support: Access to ERUA’s dedicated research support and grant application assistance.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for tailored training and participation in ERUA dissemination events.
• Increased Funding Access: Better access to diverse funding sources, including EU grants.
• Shared Resources: Utilization of shared facilities, laboratories, and advanced research infrastructure.

We look forward to receiving your applications and supporting the development of innovative and impactful research clusters within the ERUA network.