OPTICON EUROPEAN EXCELLENCE FELLOWSHIPS WORKING GROUP

Recognising the sucess of the American 'Hubble Fellowship' scheme in attracting young astronomers to work in the USA, OPTICON set out to consider if a prestigous fellowship scheme could be established in Europe to retain talented young people inside the European Scientific community. The objective of the scheme would be to forge the future leaders of the European Research Area, people who can see issues at a European level. It would provide a role model for young people, and provide a bridge between Marie Curie fellowships and more senior positions, such as professors and project leaders.

Under the leadership of Prof Piero Benvenuti a contract was obtained from the EU to conduct a feasibility study of such a programme. This study was carried out during 2001-2002 and you can now download a copy of the final report.

It is hoped that such a scheme will be implemented, perhaps as part of the next (seventh) framework programme, and OPTICON will continue to work towards this objective over the next few years.

Last update, 14 February 2003