Deadline: 16-Sep-2026
The France and Europe EMCR Mobility Grants support Australian early- and mid-career researchers (EMCRs) to undertake short-term research visits in France and Europe. The program funds collaborative placements of 14–28 days with leading international research institutions in science and technology fields. Grants of up to A$8,500 support travel and living costs to strengthen global research collaboration.
Program Overview: International Research Mobility Funding
The France and Europe EMCR Mobility Grants are designed to strengthen global scientific collaboration by enabling Australian researchers to work directly with leading research institutions in Europe.
The program supports:
- Short-term international research visits
- Early- and mid-career researcher development
- Scientific collaboration between Australia and Europe
- Research networking and knowledge exchange
Key Objectives of the Program
- Strengthen Australia–Europe scientific collaboration
- Support EMCR career development and mobility
- Build long-term international research partnerships
- Promote knowledge exchange in natural sciences
- Enhance research innovation in chemistry and biology
- Support structured collaborative placements
Funding Structure and Financial Support
Total Grant Value
- Up to A$8,500 (GST exclusive)
Funding Components
- International return economy airfare (up to A$3,500)
- Domestic travel (if eligible)
- Living allowance: A$250 per day (up to A$5,000 total)
Duration of Support
- Research visit length: 14 to 28 days
- Must occur in: 2027 calendar year
Eligible Research Areas
France (All Natural Sciences)
- Natural sciences research
- Chemistry
- Biology
- Interdisciplinary science projects
Europe (Focused Areas)
- Chemistry research
- Biology research
- Science and technology collaboration
Geographic Coverage
Europe includes:
- European Union countries
- United Kingdom
- Switzerland
- Norway
Who is Eligible?
Applicant Requirements (Australia-based EMCRs)
Applicants must:
- Be Australian citizens or hold valid Australian visas
- Reside in Australia at time of application and travel
- Be employed at an Australian research institution
- Hold a PhD awarded within the last 15 years
- Have EMCR status (early- or mid-career researcher)
Career Break Consideration
- Extensions may apply for significant career interruptions
Collaboration Requirements
Each project must include:
- An Australian EMCR based in Australia
- A host researcher at a French or European research institution
- A clearly defined collaborative research plan
Additional Requirements
Applicants must:
- Justify the scientific value of the visit
- Explain why the host institution is essential
- Develop the project in consultation with the host
What the Grant Cannot Be Used For
Funding is NOT allowed for:
- Conference attendance as the main purpose
- Sabbatical leave
- Extended study abroad programs
- Laboratory bench fees
- Administrative costs
- Visa fees
- Insurance costs
How the Program Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Identify Host Collaboration
Applicant secures a European or French host researcher.
Step 2: Develop Research Plan
Define:
- Research objectives
- Collaboration outcomes
- Scientific justification
Step 3: Application Submission
Submit proposal including:
- Research visit plan
- Host agreement
- Budget details
Step 4: Evaluation Process
Applications are assessed based on:
- Scientific merit
- Collaboration quality
- Career development impact
- Research feasibility
Step 5: Funding Decision
Successful applicants receive travel and living support.
Step 6: Research Visit Execution
Conduct a 14–28 day collaborative research placement in 2027.
Step 7: Knowledge Sharing
Researchers are expected to contribute to long-term academic collaboration outcomes.
Importance of the Program (Why It Matters)
This initiative strengthens global science by:
- Building long-term international research partnerships
- Supporting career development for EMCRs
- Enhancing scientific innovation through collaboration
- Strengthening Australia–Europe research ties
- Promoting mobility in chemistry, biology, and natural sciences
- Encouraging knowledge transfer across institutions
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing EMCR eligibility (PhD older than 15 years)
- Applying without confirmed host collaboration
- Proposing conference-only travel
- Weak justification for research visit location
- Incorrect budget allocation beyond allowed limits
- Not aligning with eligible scientific fields
Tips for a Strong Application
- Secure strong European or French host partnership early
- Clearly define research outcomes and outputs
- Demonstrate scientific innovation and relevance
- Emphasize long-term collaboration potential
- Provide detailed, realistic 14–28 day research plan
- Align project with chemistry, biology, or natural sciences scope
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who can apply for this program?
Australian early- and mid-career researchers employed at Australian institutions.
2. What is the funding amount?
Up to A$8,500 (GST exclusive).
3. How long is the research visit?
Between 14 and 28 days in 2027.
4. Where can researchers go?
France and European countries including the EU, UK, Switzerland, and Norway.
5. What fields are supported?
Chemistry, biology, and natural sciences.
6. Can the grant be used for conferences?
No, it is strictly for collaborative research visits.
7. Do I need a host institution?
Yes, collaboration with a European or French research host is mandatory.
Conclusion
The France and Europe EMCR Mobility Grants provide critical support for Australian researchers to build international collaborations and advance scientific research. By funding short-term research visits, the program strengthens global knowledge exchange, supports EMCR career development, and fosters innovation in chemistry, biology, and natural sciences.
For more information, visit Australian Academy of Science.