Please note: Researchers interested in applying for an STSM in the Distant Reading COST Action should first read the relevant section from the COST Vademecum to establish whether they are eligible to apply for an STSM, and how to calculate the requested grant. Please download the COST Vademecum (latest version) for more information and see section 8, “Short Term Scientific Missions (STSM)”.
Selection of applicants
The selection of applicants is based on the scientific scope of the STSM application, which must clearly complement the overall objectives of the Action, as well as on additional formal criteria.
How to apply for an STSM
Interested researchers can apply by following the directions below. In addition, they are welcome to request more information and consultation from our STSM Co-ordinator, Ms Catherine Kanellopoulou (COST Action 16204, STSM Co-ordinator; email address: catherine.kanellopoulou@gmail.com). Applications in 2021 will be considered on a rolling basis. Missions in the current call need to take place between July 15 and October 31, 2021.
Application process
Instructions for submitting the online Application
Applications for STSMs are managed through the e-COST management tool. The link to the STSM application is available at http://www.cost.eu/STSM. You will need an e-COST profile to log in or you can create one using the site.
The application for a STSM is composed of two parts:
Part 1. Online registration by the applicant
The Applicant must use the online e-COST tool to register the request for an STSM. The following information has to be encoded with the registration:
- the title of the planned STSM;
- the planned dates and length of stay;
- a motivation statement and description of the proposed work plan (2000 words maximum; see instructions in the online form)
- name, postal address and email of the prospective host at the receiving institute;
- banking information of the applicant;
- a budget request with breakdown for the costs of the STSM;
Part 2. Supporting documents
The supporting documents necessary for an STSM application include the following:
- a letter of invitation to the applicant from a senior Researcher affiliated to the Host institution confirming that they can undertake the STSM on the given dates
- a support letter/email from the Home Institution
- a full CV of the applicant (including a list of academic publications, if applicable)
After submitting the application, the online registration tool will issue a formal STSM application which will be automatically sent to the Action’s STSM Co-ordinator for evaluation.
Formal Report after the STSM
Successful applicants will need to submit a scientific report to the Host Institution and to the STSM Chair and Coordinator within 30 days from the end date of the STSM, and they will be responsible for acquiring from a senior researcher affiliated to the Host Institution confirmation of successful completion of the STSM. The scientific report will require the approval of the Action Chair or STSM coordinator in order to effect the payment of the Grant. Successful applicants will be asked to submit a brief summary of the STSM outputs for the Action’s website describing the scientific report which will also be made available online.
Failure to submit the scientific report within 30 days from the end date of the STSM will effectively cancel the Grant. COST may request additional information to substantiate the information contained within the documents submitted by STSM applicants.
Important Dates
- Deadline for applications to be submitted: rolling basis
- Notification of outcome: rolling basis
- STSMs must be completed before October 31, 2021
