1. finance
2. grants, scholarships and financial aid
3. government grants

Guidelines for Applicants
AFR Postdoc Grants
(Call reference: AFR-PDR 2012-1)
The present document contains the guidelines for the FNR scheme ‘Aides à la FormationRecherche (AFR)’ referring to the postdoc call PDR 2012-1:
Submission deadline
Funding decision to be
expected by
07 March 2012, 14h00
June 2012
Applicants must read the guidelines before submitting their proposal.
AFR applications must be completed online and submitted via an electronic grant
submission system. The electronic grant submission system is accessible either through
www.afr.lu or https://grants.fnr.lu
To use the electronic grant submission system, applicants have at their disposal a tutorial
available under the help section of the system.
Further information on the AFR postdoc grants (i.e. AFR terms and conditions, Evaluation
Guidelines for Remote Reviewers and Panel Members, FAQ’s, etc.) is available on
www.afr.lu (see section “Postdoc forms and guidelines”).
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 1
Table of content
Part 1: General Guidelines .....................................................................................................................................3
1. What is the AFR Research Training Grant? ...................................................................................................3
2. Who can apply? ..................................................................................................................................................3
3. How to apply for AFR funding? ........................................................................................................................4
4. Deadlines .............................................................................................................................................................5
5. Submission ..........................................................................................................................................................5
6. Resubmissions ...................................................................................................................................................6
7. Limitation of the number of applications .......................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
8. Work contract or fellowship? ............................................................................................................................6
9. Elements determining the AFR grant contribution ........................................................................................7
10. Funding decision and project start ................................................................................................................7
11. What are the AFR selection criteria? ............................................................................................................7
12. How are the AFR applications evaluated? ...................................................................................................7
13. Grant duration ...................................................................................................................................................8
14. AFR – Training allowance...............................................................................................................................8
15. Part-time research ...........................................................................................................................................9
16. Maternity and parental leave ..........................................................................................................................9
17. IPR .....................................................................................................................................................................9
18. Applicants who are third country nationals .................................................................................................10
19. Misconduct ......................................................................................................................................................10
20. Dissemination of research results ...............................................................................................................11
21. Acknowledgement of AFR funding ..............................................................................................................11
22. Annual AFR meeting .....................................................................................................................................11
23. Alumni network ...............................................................................................................................................12
24. Portability of Grants .......................................................................................................................................12
25. Preparation of the research stay in Luxembourg (or abroad) .................................................................12
26. Interesting web portals and resources for researchers in Luxembourg .................................................12
27. Marie-Curie Cofunding ..................................................................................................................................13
28. Grant writing....................................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.
Part 2: Specific Guidelines relating to the application form........................................................................ 14
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Applicant details ......................................................................................................................................14
Host Institution .........................................................................................................................................15
Description of the research project .......................................................................................................17
Interest of the research project in the Luxembourg R&D setting .....................................................18
Public-private partnerships (PPP) ........................................................................................................19
Ethical Issues and ...................................................................................................................................20
Data Protection ........................................................................................................................................20
Training plan ............................................................................................................................................20
Personal statement .................................................................................................................................21
Type of grant requested .........................................................................................................................21
Applicant’s and Host Institution’s Joint Declaration ...........................................................................24
APPENDICES: official certificates ........................................................................................................25
Annex 1: Application form (print-out of online version)
Annex 2: Project Description and Ethical Issues Table
Annex 3: General checklist for the online grant application submission
Annex 4: Research domains according to ERC (European Research Council)
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 2
Part 1: General Guidelines
1. What is the AFR Research Training Grant?

The AFR is a national research grant scheme to support PhD and postdoctoral
research training in Luxembourg and abroad. The scheme is managed by the Fonds
National de la Recherche.

The objectives of the AFR scheme are to:
o strengthen the PhD and postdoc research population in Luxembourg and
abroad
o set quality standards for PhD and postdoc research training
o select high quality proposals through peer review
o improve working conditions (mainly through work contracts)
o raise awareness of researchers rights and responsibilities at an early career
stage
o enhance public-private partnerships (AFR-PPP)
o organize accompanying measures to support the training, mobility and
networking of the PhD and postdoc community in Luxembourg and abroad.

The AFR postdoc grants are awarded for a maximum duration of 2 years.
2. Who can apply?

The AFR programme follows a bottom up approach and has no thematic limitations
and is open to all researchers, regardless of their nationality, desirous to engage into
research training in Luxembourg or abroad. In the selection process, the interest of the
project in the context of Luxembourg R&D will nevertheless be evaluated.

Applicants for the AFR postdoc grants must be holders of a PhD diploma of a recognized
public or private Higher Education Institution.

AFR beneficiaries are eligible consecutively for PhD and for postdoctoral funding.

Postdoctoral candidates can apply until up to 8 years after reception of their PhD
certificate (the date of the deadline counts). Furthermore, in order to be eligible as a
postdoc, the research training has to be carried out in a different country from where the
applicant has been principally (> 12 months) working in the 24 months preceding the call
deadline. These two eligibility conditions are binding, without exception.

Researchers, who have been awarded a grant from an external source of funding for an
individual fellowship similar to AFR may apply under AFR. However, in case of approval
of the two grants, they will have to opt for one or the other. FNR does not accept
cumulating two grants for living costs of different origin.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
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3. How to apply for AFR funding?

Applicants must login to the FNR electronic grant submission system under
https://grants.fnr.lu in order to gain access to the AFR application form. The application
form consists of two main parts:
-
an online form (see annex 1 for a copy of the online form)
a document in .rtf format comprising the project description (to be uploaded as
.pdf).
In addition, a number of support documents listed in the online application form have to be
uploaded by the applicant before submission. (see checklist in annex). Be aware that
completeness is not checked by the electronic grant submission system.

If the proposal is carried out at one of the main Luxembourg host institutions, the
corresponding AFR contact persons should be informed of/involved in the preparation of
the proposal prior to the submission, in addition to the scientific contact(s).
The AFR contacts at Luxembourg Host Institutions are:

University of Luxembourg
o Administrative contact and general AFR related issues:
 Research facilitators of the faculties (coordinates, see www.uni.lu)
 In addition: email: [email protected]
o Legal representative: Prof. Lucienne Blessing, Vice-Rector Research

CRP Henri Tudor:
o Administrative contact and general AFR related issues:
 Myriam Fautsch, email: [email protected]; and
[email protected]
o Legal representative: Dr Marc Lemmer, Director

CRP Gabriel Lippmann:
o Administrative contact and general AFR related issues:
 Stephane Kucharczyk; email: [email protected]
o Legal representative: Fernand Reinig, Director

CRP Sante
o Administrative contact for work contract, visa and related issues:
 Natacha Beicht; email: [email protected]
o Legal representative/contact for general AFR related issues:
 Dr Jean-Claude Schmit, Director, email: [email protected]

CEPS/INSTEAD:
o Administrative contact and general AFR related issues:
 Carole Stefanuto; email: [email protected]
o Legal representative: Dr Pierre Hausman, Director
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
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4. Deadlines

Under the AFR scheme, there are currently 2 annual call deadlines for postdoc
applications in spring and autumn. The forthcoming deadline applies for the
electronic submission of the application through the grant submission system and is
fixed at the following date and hour:
Submission deadline
7 March 2012, 14h00

Funding decision to be expected by
June 2012
In case the host institution has an own internal deadline prior to the FNR deadline, it
is the responsibility of the applicant to respect the internal deadline; otherwise the
application may not be eligible.
5. Submission

Applications must be completed and submitted online by the applicant at the call
deadline (see point 4. Deadlines).

The applicant needs to ensure that the original signed application form (identical content
as online submitted version and signed by the applicant and the legal representative of
the host institution), including all supporting documents, in paper (not stapled!),
reaches the FNR offices no later than 5 working days after the call deadline at the
address: Fonds National de la Recherche (FNR) Service AFR, 6, rue Antoine de SaintExupéry, B.P. 1777, L-1017 Luxembourg. In case the original application varies from the
online submitted version, the proposal is not eligible.

In particular, applicants have to make sure that the letters of support by their scientific
contact(s) arrive as well until 5 working days after the call deadline.

Application forms that arrive late or that are not complete (including letters of
support) are not eligible!

Applications that arrive after the indicated deadline may be submitted under the next call
deadline, taking into account the conditions of that call.

No proposal may be submitted without prior approval by the host institution.

Certain host institutions, in particular Luxembourg host institutions, have internal rules
regarding the submission of AFR applications. They may, for example, require that AFR
applications must first be examined and approved by their administration before they can
be submitted online to the FNR. In the early preparation stage of the AFR application
(and no later than 1 month prior to the submission deadline), applicants must therefore
get in touch with the HI’s internal AFR administrative contact to inform him/her of the
intention to submit an AFR proposal and to clarify the internal submission procedure.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
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6. Resubmissions

In case a proposal is a resubmission of a former AFR proposal by the same
applicant, the points raised in the AFR review synthesis have to be addressed
specifically and with sufficient arguments in the new proposal. If possible, the
resubmission should be based on the initial proposal by highlighting in a different
colour (appropriate also for black&white printing) any changes or additions that were
made to the initial version.
7. Work contract or fellowship?

The AFR instrument is actively encouraging the conclusion of work contracts
between AFR beneficiaries and their host institutions, thereby giving the beneficiaries
access to full social security coverage including health and pension insurances. The
AFR grant scheme pays to the host institution a contribution (“subvention”) to the
annual salary costs of the candidate.

Work contracts will be the rule. Simple fellowships, termed “bourses”, paid directly to
the beneficiaries, will be possible only in well justified cases (i.e. the conclusion of a
work contract with the host institution is not possible; the conclusion of a work
contract leads to a substantial material disadvantage for the candidate compared to a
fellowship). Beneficiaries of an AFR fellowship must be covered by a health and
accident (H&A) insurance. Upon request, the costs for the H&A insurance may be
partially or entirely refunded by the FNR.

In order to avoid unnecessary delays or misunderstandings, applicants should get
into contact with the administrative contact of their main host institution early in the
grant application stage to clarify any questions related to the working relationship (i.e.
possibility of a work contract, contractual and salary related issues) as well as
general working conditions at the host institution.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 6

The work contracts that do not automatically comprise social security coverage i.e.
contribution to a public pension, health and accident insurance, coverage of
invalidity, certain coverage for the event of unemployment, etc. are not supported by
the AFR scheme. AFR beneficiaries that face such contracts (e.g. commonly in the
United States) are only eligible for an AFR fellowship support. Conversely, support
for a work contract may be granted if proof is delivered that the above social security
requirements are all fulfilled, in particular the contribution to a public pension
scheme and the coverage of a health and accident insurance.
8. Elements determining the AFR grant contribution
The grant contributions paid under the AFR scheme depend on the following factors:
 PhD or postdoctoral research training
 Work contract or fellowship
 Collaboration with an accredited private company in Luxembourg
 Full-time or part time
 Total salary paid by the host institution
 Other funding sources
9. Funding decision and project start

Projects should start within 6 months following the issuing of the positive funding
decision by the FNR.

If the project starts before the funding decision, the entire responsibility for its costs
lies with the candidate (in the event of a fellowship) or with the host institution (in the
event of a work contract).

After the positive funding decision, the FNR may refund costs retroactively up to the
submission deadline.
10. What are the AFR Postdoc selection criteria?

The submitted proposals will be evaluated based on the following selection criteria:
1. Scientific quality of the research project
2. Profile of the applicant
3. Quality of the host institution
4. Interest of the research project in the Luxembourg R&D setting
5. Potential of the research project for career development

More detailed information about the selection criteria is available in the “AFR
Evaluation Guidelines for Remote Reviewers and Panel Members” as well as in the
“AFR Review Form” (see www.afr.lu).
11. How are the AFR applications evaluated?

The submitted research proposals will be reviewed in a two-stage process. In a first
stage, every proposal will be remotely evaluated. In a second stage, a panel meeting
will be held in Luxembourg, where the selection of the proposals to be considered for
funding will be finalized.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 7

In the review process, applications will be evaluated according to the criteria listed
above. Special attention will be given to project proposals that raise ethical and/or
data protection issues.

In order to keep the review process as transparent as possible, applicants will
receive feedback comprising the conclusion of the panel (evaluation synthesis) as
well as the full remote reviews.

All scientific experts solicited by the FNR are required to sign confidentiality
agreements and to declare any potential conflicts of interest. They are required to
treat applications in the strictest confidence. They are engaged as individuals, not as
representatives of their employer or any other entity. They are required to carry out
the assessment or evaluation themselves and not ask someone to assess or
evaluate the application in their place.

Applicants should consult the “AFR Evaluation Guidelines for Remote Reviewers and
Panel Members” as well as the “AFR Review Form” available on the website
www.afr.lu.
12. Grant duration

The AFR postdoc grants are awarded for a maximum duration of 2 years.

Researchers, who have had external funding for a limited period of time, may apply
for AFR funding for the remaining time of their postdoc research project. The
minimum AFR grant duration is 3 months.
13. AFR – Training allowance


From 1st January 2011 onwards, the FNR is awarding a training allowance to each
AFR beneficiary to cover costs for participation at training events directly related to
the AFR research project. These training events comprehend:
o scientific/non-scientific training seminars,
o scientific conferences
o summer/winter schools
o field work or travel between scientific contacts involved in the project
The training allowance amounts to max. 2.000 €/yr and is paid to the Host institution
(in case of a work contract). In case of a fellowship it is paid directly to the AFR
fellow. It is the responsibility of the AFR beneficiary in agreement with his/her
supervisor(s) or main scientific contact to manage the travel allowance over the AFR
funding period.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 8



The AFR Training Allowance Guidelines and AFR Training Claim Form are available
on:
http://www.afr.lu/en/AFR-Grants-Activities/Forms,-Guidelines-Logos/AFR-TravelAllowance-Guidelines-and-Claim-Form
Only participation costs of events where the AFR beneficiary was physically present
may be claimed for refunding!
Through the introduction of the current training allowance, AFR beneficiaries are no
longer eligible for financial support under the FNR – Accompanying Measures AM2a
(Active Participation in Scientific Conferences Abroad) and –AM2b (Training for
Researchers, including Summer Schools)
14. Part-time research

Exceptionally AFR beneficiaries have the possibility to undertake their research
either as fulltime or part time. Nevertheless, the part time research must not be less
than 50% of the normal working time and must comply with the host institution´s part
time policy.
15. Maternity and parental leave

In case of the birth or adoption of a child, the AFR contract will be automatically
extended for the legally defined period for maternity leave. The AFR beneficiaries
(with or without work contract) have to inform the FNR in advance by indicating the
foreseen period of maternity leave and by delivering the necessary medical/legal
certificates.
If not covered by social security, the AFR payment will be continued throughout the
period of maternity leave. As opposed to maternity leave in Luxembourg, parental
leave is not a right per se and has to follow the given legal framework. AFR
payments do not cover parental leave. If a parental leave is offered, the AFR grant
will be suspended for the period of the parental leave.
16. IPR


The FNR encourages host institutions to comply with the European Commission's
Recommendation on the management of intellectual property in knowledge transfer
activities and Code of Practice for universities and other public research
organisations', accessible through the following link:
http://ec.europa.eu/invest-in-research/pdf/ip_recommendation_en.pdf
The FNR does not make any claims on IPR generated in the framework of an AFR
project.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 9
17. Applicants who are Other Third country (non EU- and non
associated countries) nationals

Applicants who are Other Third Country nationals may need a visa before entering
the territory of Luxembourg. For procedures concerning the visa application, refer to
www.mae.lu > visa and passports.

According to the immigration law 1, researchers who join a public institution or private
company in Luxembourg that is officially accredited to undertake research activities,
have to conclude a convention d’accueil with their host institution prior to their entry
into Luxembourg. Based on this convention d’accueil, they will obtain their titre de
séjour including their work permit. In order to be eligible for the convention d’accueil
in Luxembourg, applicants have to choose their residence in Luxembourg for the
duration of their stay. Details about the procedure are soon available on the portal of
the EURAXESS Service Center Luxembourg www.euraxess.lu.

IMPORTANT: The application for visa and related authorisations may take up to 4
months. In order not to lose precious time, AFR candidates should contact the
EURAXESS Service Centre (contact person: [email protected]) as soon as
possible after the submission of their AFR application. This enables them to receive
the information about documents and procedures well in advance in order to submit
their visa request immediately after the communication of the AFR funding decision.
18. Misconduct
1

Any misconduct, such as falsification of information or research misconduct e.g.
plagiarism, falsification of data, may result in the immediate disqualification of the
application or the cancellation of the ongoing grant. Moreover, the FNR may decide
upon additional sanctions (e.g. request the reimbursement of the grant) and may take
legal actions.

The FNR has published its own research integrity guidelines and FNR ethical charter
with which applicants of all FNR funding schemes must comply. They are available
on:
http://www.fnr.lu/en/Grants-Activities/Forms,-Formulaires,-Guidelines-Logos
In particular, with regard to plagiarism, all AFR grant applications are checked by
using specialized software.
« Loi sur la libre circulation des personnes et l’immigration », published on 29th August 2008.
Information available on www.mae.lu > Immigration > Entrée et séjour des étrangers
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 10
19. Dissemination of research results

The dissemination and transfer of knowledge is a key added-value of research
actions. Results should be published actively in peer reviewed publications and
presented in scientific conferences. The capacity to publish is an essential criterion to
build up a future research career. If the AFR grant is carried out in an environment
that imposes certain limitations concerning the publication of research results (i.e. for
projects carried out in the framework of a public-private partnership), these limitations
must be made known to the applicant before the proposal submission. The
publication of research results should only be restricted in well justified cases by the
host institutions.

The FNR recommends a minimum of one first author publication and one co-author
application per AFR postdoctoral grant in a Scopus or ISI Thompson refereed
scientific journal. In the humanities and social sciences, where monographs are
considered the main scientific publication output, publications in international
scientific journals should also be envisaged. It is a joint responsibility of the
applicants and their scientific contacts to aim for publications in top scientific journals
in their field, to improve career prospects after the AFR grant.

In projects with a potentially commercial orientation, the possibility of using the IPR
through patenting or other should be envisaged.

AFR beneficiaries may apply for financial support for the publication of their research
results under the FNR Accompanying Measures AM4 – Scientific Publications
(including PhD theses). Further details on the FNR Accompanying Measures under
www.fnr.lu.
20. Acknowledgement of AFR funding

Financial support from FNR must be acknowledged in all publications and other
forms of media communication, according to the Guidelines available on:
http://www.afr.lu/en/AFR-Grants-Activities/Forms,-Guidelines-Logos
21. Annual AFR meeting

The FNR organises annually a meeting for all AFR beneficiaries and ex-grantees as
a networking event.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 11
22. Alumni network

The FNR is planning the set-up of an alumni network among AFR beneficiaries,
promoting the exchange between past, current and potentially new AFR grantees.
23. Portability of Grants

The FNR supports the principle of the portability of grants of AFR beneficiaries who
want to change their host institution for duly justified reasons. However a change of
the host institution must be done in accordance with the rules governing the work
contract, including IPR. In case of agreement, beneficiaries may carry on their grants
in a different host institution, according to the rules and procedures that will be
specified in the context of the FNR adherence to the EUROHORCs Agreement
‘Money Follows Researcher’ (see http://eurohorcs.drift.senselogic.se ).
24. Preparation of the research stay in Luxembourg (or abroad)

In order to prepare their research stay in Luxembourg or abroad, applicants should
consult their contacts in the host institutions as well as web resources such as the
EURAXESS Services Centre in Luxembourg www.euraxess.lu or abroad
www.ec.europa.eu/euraxess. For incoming researchers, the EURAXESS portal and
office assembles information about all practical aspects of life in Luxembourg,
including visa and other administrative procedures:
The EURAXESS Services Centre Luxembourg ; contact person: Barbara Daniel (email:
[email protected])
25. Interesting web portals and resources for researchers in Luxembourg








Public research institutes/University:
 Université du Luxembourg, www.uni.lu
 CRP Gabriel Lippmann, www.lippmann.lu
 CRP Henri Tudor, www.tudor.lu
 CRP Santé, www.crp-sante.lu
 CEPS/INSTEAD, www.ceps.lu
The Luxembourg Portal for Innovation and Research, www.innovation.public.lu
The National Research Fund (for public R&D funding opportunities in Luxembourg)
www.fnr.lu
The Government of Luxembourg, www.gouvernement.lu
The Ministry of Research, www.recherche.lu
The Luxembourg Foresight Exercise (for research priority areas in Luxembourg; see
final report of the Foresight exercise), www.fnrforesight.lu
CEDIES (CEntre de Documentation et d’Information sur l’Enseignement Supérieur),
www.cedies.public.lu
EURAXESS Service Center Luxembourg (www.euraxess.lu)
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 12
26. Grant writing

When writing a grant application, it may appear useful to consult websites on grant
writing that can be found through standard website search tools, typing ‘grant writing’.
27. Marie-Curie Cofunding


Since the 1st March 2009 and again since 1st December 2011, the AFR postdoc
grant scheme is co-funded by the European Commission under the Marie-Curie
COFUND scheme. A link to funding opportunities and calls cofounded by the Marie
Curie Actions of the European Commission is available on the EU –Researcher
Participant Portal Website under
http://ec.europa.eu/research/participants/portal/page/cofund
All
AFR
Postdoc
beneficiaries who are eligible for Marie Curie Cofunding are regarded as Marie Curie
Fellows.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 13
Part 2: Specific Guidelines relating to the application
form
The following guidelines are structured according to the different sections of the AFR
Postdoc application form which can be accessed online through the FNR Grant
management system https://grants.fnr.lu.
Each section of the application form must be completed.
The use of English is a pre-requisite for international visibility in Science. Therefore,
applications should be drafted in English in the natural sciences as well as in mathematics,
IT, engineering, and economics. In fields where the standard scientific language is French or
German, applications may be drafted in one of these languages. The FNR promotes the use
of English at all levels of the research career and independently from the domains, given that
the correct use of English enhances the chances of scientific publications in top journals and
the potential to apply successfully for funding at EU level.
1.
Applicant details
Mobility

In order to be eligible as a postdoc, the research training has to be carried out in a
different country from where the applicant has been principally (> 12 months) working
in the 24 months preceding the call deadline.
Date of PhD certificate


Postdoctoral candidates can apply until up to 8 years after reception of their PhD
certificate. The date on the PhD certificate counts.
If the PhD examination has not taken place before the application date, it must take
place at least within 3 months after the deadline, otherwise the proposal may not be
retained and must be resubmitted under a next AFR call deadline. In case the PhD
examination has not yet taken place, applicants must join a statement by their PhD
supervisor addressing this issue.
Diploma


Copies of relevant academic diploma obtained and a copy of the statement of
courses and marks ("relevé de notes") of the most recent degree must be submitted.
Copies of these documents may be submitted in English, French, German, Spanish,
Italian or Portuguese. If in any other language, they must be translated into English
or French and officially certified. Marks attributed by institutions outside Luxembourg
must clearly be associable to the corresponding grading such as ‘very good, good,
satisfactory, weak’.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 14
Scientific publications

2.
Only peer reviewed articles, publications or editions should be quoted.
Host Institution
Choice of host institution

The host institution (HI) is the institution where the AFR beneficiary performs the
major part of her/his research, i.e. at least 50% of the time has to be spent with the
main host institution (unless fieldwork is more than 50% and no other host institution
is involved).

It is the responsibility of the applicants to find a suitable HI with a competent research
group in their field.

The HI must offer office or laboratory space allowing the applicant to properly carry
out the described research project.

The following are eligible HIs for AFR grantees:
o
o
o
o
o
o
2
the University of Luxembourg as well as the Luxembourg public research
centers :
 Université du Luxembourg, www.uni.lu
 CRP Gabriel Lippmann, www.lippmann.lu
 CRP Henri Tudor, www.tudor.lu
 CRP Santé, www.crp-sante.lu
 CEPS/INSTEAD, www.ceps.lu ;
public bodies or private associations 2 in Luxembourg with a research
mission and scientific competence in the domains of the project; the
respective document certifying their research mission and, in the case of
associations, their statutes have to be submitted;
private companies located in Luxembourg active in R&D, in collaboration
with a research institution in Luxembourg or abroad; if private companies
intend to serve as HI, they need to provide an accreditation (‘agrément’)
issued by the Ministry of Economic Affairs in order to be eligible (contact
person for the agrément at the Ministry: Gregory Saeul, mail:
[email protected])
the respective ‘agrément’ together with a contract between the
collaborating public research body and the private company, including the
IPR agreement, have to be submitted to ensure the eligibility of the HI;
recognized research and higher education institutions in Luxembourg or
abroad;
public institutions abroad with a research mission and scientific
competence in the domain of the project; the respective document
certifying the research mission and the statutes have to be submitted.
Associations sans but lucratif ou fondations régies par les dispositions de la loi modifiée du 21 avril
1928 sur les associations et les fondations sans but lucratif
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 15
If in doubt, applicants should contact the FNR well in advance prior to the deadline to clarify
the eligibility of the host institution.

In the case the Host Institution is a private company, the collaborating public
research institution has to be indicated as 2nd collaborating institution.
Project supervision



The postdoc project must be carried out in close collaboration with at least one
qualified researcher in the domain of the project in the host institution who is actively
involved in the scientific training and the career development of the researcher.
The main scientific advisor of the host institution as well as of each collaborating
institution listed in the application form must provide a CV (max. 4 pages!) and a
support letter (based on the template provided on the website www.fnr.lu). Please
note that the CV (including record of relevant publications) must not exceed 4 pages,
otherwise only the 4 first pages will be forwarded to the remote evaluators!
The scientific advisor shall draw the candidate’s attention to the content of the
postdoc regulations. The AFR application is prepared by the applicant in close
collaboration with the scientific contact(s). The scientific contact(s) shall ensure that
the postdoctoral research is conducted:
o in accordance with the code of conduct for professional work in the field in
question;
o without third parties funding or co-funding the research imposing
restrictions on the freedom to publish results that are incompatible with
academic freedom.
Administrative contact


The administrative contact is the contact person for the AFR contractual and
administrative issues. In some cases, the administrative contact may be identical to
the legal representative.
In the case of a fellowship, the scientific contact may possibly take the role of
administrative contact.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 16
3.
Description of the research project

For the indication of the main research domain and the subdomains in the application
form, please refer to the list of “Research Domains” according to the ERC in annex 3
of these Guidelines.

The project abstract is part of the application form. The project abstract should
provide an understanding of the general setting, the objectives of the proposal and
how they will be achieved. The abstract should be written in a way that it also allows
for non-expert readers to understand the essence of the proposal. (the abstract of
successful applicants will be published in a project database on the AFR website).
Moreover, the abstract is used in the recruitment process of remote experts for the
evaluation of the proposal and should thus not include any confidential aspects of the
planned research project.

The full description of the research project must be uploaded under the
designated section (3.5) in the online application form.
Please use the template “Postdoc Project Description Form” provided at
http://www.afr.lu/en/AFR-Grants-Activities/Forms,-Guidelines-Logos/PhD-Forms-andGuidelines and copied for information in annex 2.
Every subsection must be treated separately. A clearly legible and understandable
work plan must be provided for the full duration of the project. If the applicant fails to
complete one of the sections without a proper justification, the application is not
eligible!

A list of abbreviations should be provided where applicable.

In case a proposal is a resubmission of a former AFR proposal by the same
applicant, the points raised in the review synthesis have to be addressed specifically
and with sufficient arguments in the new proposal. If possible, the resubmission
should be based on the initial proposal by highlighting in a different colour any
changes or additions that were made to the initial version.

For AFR projects which are to be carried out in the framework of a greater
multiannual project (e.g. institution-internal, national, European or international
projects), it is essential that the proposal indicates explicitly and unequivocally what
the individual contribution of the applicant in the frame of the greater project is.

In case two or more submitted projects are interlinked, it must emerge in a clear and
transparent way, who does what, who gets the credit for what (in terms of first
authorships in publications), if and how one specific research project is affected in
case the related proposal is not retained for funding, etc.

The minimum/maximum words or page numbers must be respected. Use Times New
Roman or Arial Font size 11, single space.
Be concise!

Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 17

4.
Concerning the project description file and its upload:
- The filename for upload should end in .pdf and must not contain any special
characters or spaces;
- The project description must not be encrypted and the parameters that prevent
printing must not be selected
- The proposal should not contain coloured or high resolution pictures; it will be
printed in black and white at 300 dpi for evaluation
- The size of the project description file in .pdf upload should not exceed 5 Mbyte.
Interest of the research project in the Luxembourg R&D
setting

The interest of the research project in the Luxembourg R&D setting is an essential
selection criterion.

As a minimum requirement to fulfil this criterion, one of the following conditions needs
to be met:
- the intended research activity is carried out in Luxembourg, in the framework of a
research project that has already been evaluated or will be evaluated on a
national, European or international level, or

-
the intended research activity is carried out in a private company in Luxembourg
committed to offering guidance to the candidate, or
-
the intended research activity takes place in collaboration with either a research
organisation, a company active in R&D, a private association or foundation or a
public sector body in Luxembourg
-
the research activity is of thematic interest for Luxembourg, either because the
scientific domain is related to research activities in Luxembourg or the research
project is about Luxembourg
-
personal link of the applicant with Luxembourg (see below)
-
Other (to be justified and documented)
The personal link with Luxembourg is only relevant for applicants who carry out their
project outside Luxembourg. Within Luxembourg, applicants from any nationality
without earlier link to the country may apply.
A personal link exists if one of the following conditions is met:
-
Luxembourg nationals
o Nationals of a member country of the European Union with a
residence in the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg; applicants have to
provide a certificate of residence in Luxembourg;
-
Political refugees with a residence in the Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg
Applicants have to provide
o a document certifying their status of political refugee acc. to the Art. 23
of the Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, signed at
Geneva on 28/07/51;
o a certificate of residence in Luxembourg;
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 18
-
Nationals of a third country or stateless with a residence in the Grand
Duchy of Luxembourg, who have lived in Luxembourg at least 5 years at
the moment of the submission of the application
Applicants have to provide
o a document certifying their status as stateless acc. to Art. 23 of the
Convention relating to the status of stateless persons, signed in New
York on 28 September 1954;
o a document certifying their residency in Luxembourg of at least 5
years prior to the submission deadline;
Any of the above mentioned documents to be provided by the applicants
should be uploaded under the relevant section (appendices) of the online
application.
5.
Public-private partnerships (PPP)
Incentive for public-private partnerships (PPP)

A financial incentive is paid to beneficiaries who are conducting their research in
collaboration with an accredited private company active in R&D in Luxembourg. In
order to be eligible as an “accredited” private firm, companies need to have an
accreditation (‘agrément’) by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (for details about the
accreditation, see above section ‘Eligible Host Institutions’).

The financial incentive for the AFR Public-Private Partnership (AFR-PPP) is paid only
under the condition that a real collaboration between an accredited private firm in
Luxembourg and a public sector research institution takes place.
- the research project is jointly developed by the AFR applicant, the private
company and the public partner.
- the project described must be a true research project with an element of
innovation and the potential to create new knowledge; in any case it mustn’t
simply cover the daily operational business of the company.
- a project-specific contract needs to be concluded between the private company
and the public research body, including an agreement on Intellectual Property
Rights (IPR).
- there must be at least one contact person or scientific/technological expert
(scientific contact) in the company, able to actively accompany the beneficiary
and the project over time
- the scientific contact must give an appreciation of the research project,
mentioning the objectives of the project as seen from the perspective of the
private company and the contribution of the company to the project and to the
training/career development of the grantee
- the beneficiary carries out a certain part or the entirety of his/her research project
in the private company where there is active involvement of the company-based
scientific contact in the research project and the training of the candidate
- ideally the candidate should spend not less than 10% and not more than 75% of
the research period in the company.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 19

6.
7.
The beneficiary may be employed either by the public or private host institution. If the
private company directly hosts and employs the AFR beneficiary through a work
contract, the FNR pays the foreseen contribution (incl. the incentive) to the work
contract directly to the company.
Ethical Issues and
Data Protection
 Research supported by an AFR grant must respect the fundamental ethical
principles. Fundamental ethical principles which must be respected include those
reflected in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (see
http://www.europarl.europa.eu/charter/default_en.htm). These principles include the
need to ensure the freedom of research and the need to protect the physical and
moral integrity of individuals and the welfare of animals. Research projects of an
ethically sensitive nature must conform to the regulations and practice valid in the
host country as well as in the European Union.
 Applicants should indicate whether the proposed research raises sensitive ethical
questions such as research involving human beings, human biological samples,
personal data, genetic information or animals. To this end, the Ethical Issues Table
attached to the Project Description Form must be completed.
 The FNR requests that applicants and their host institutions verify the ethical and
data protection rules of the countries where they will carry out their research and that
they comply with the rules and laws of these countries as well as the rules and laws
of the European Union. Applicants must demonstrate under the ethical issues section
in the application form that they are aware of these regulations and quote the
necessary authorisations or measures to be taken in respect of ethical and data
protection requirements.
 In Luxembourg, ethically sensitive projects need to receive the approval of the
Comité National d’Ethique de la Recherche (CNER) and/or the Comité National de la
Protection des Données (CNPD) prior to the launch of the project.”
8.
Training plan

The AFR programme strongly encourages to complement basic academic training
with additional training targeting skills development to increase the employability and
career prospects of researchers.

The Postdoc applicant has to provide a detailed training plan for the full duration of
the postdoc project.

The plan should comprise any training activities planned specifically for postdoctoral
researchers by the Host Institution. In addition, any scientific/ methodological training
should be indicated, such as attendance in renowned scientific conferences,
participation in summerschools, methodological training courses, colloquia, etc. (for
AFR – Training allowance see Part I, chapter 13.)

Moreover, applicants are strongly encouraged to improve their non scientific skills
through appropriate training courses, such as project management, ethics,
International Property Rights (IPR), soft skills such as communication, public
speaking, grant writing, … (for AFR – Training allowance see Part I, chapter 13.)
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 20

9.
Training activities such as courses in the field of the promotion of scientific culture
(communication of researchers with the public and other courses) as well as the
practice of activities in collaboration with schools, the media, etc. should form part of
any training programme of a PhD or postdoc researcher. These activities should also
be included into the training plan in the application form.
Personal statement

10.
Postdoc applicants are evaluated on the benefit of their postdoctoral training and the
mobility for their personal career development. The statement should give the
relevant arguments why the choice of host institution and project are the right ones at
this moment of the research career of the applicant and how it enhances the
professional research career.
Type of grant requested
The AFR contribution to a work contract

Applicants need to make sure before submission that the indications in the
application form comply with the employment and work contract rules of the Host
Institution.

The AFR contribution should cover or contribute to the AFR beneficiary’s salary costs
which are:
o the beneficiary’s gross salary, composed by
 net salary
 social security (such as health, accident, pension insurance)
 income tax
o the employer’s charges (social security and possibly other direct salary
related employer’s costs)
Any other costs, including registration or institution fees, equipment and
consumables, overheads, non-wage compensations, travel costs etc. have to be
covered by the host institution or the applicant.


The AFR contribution to a work contract has to be calculated by the Host Institution’s
personnel department, on the basis of the indications and documents submitted by
the applicant in view of the preparation of the work contract. Applicants should
contact the Host Institution sufficiently in advance to receive the amounts that are
required by the FNR in the application form.

For AFR beneficiaries under a work contract, the FNR pays annually in advance to
the host institution a contribution to the salary costs incurred.

The annual salary costs depend on the number of salary-months paid per year. It is
not necessarily based on 12 salary-months per calendar year. Certain countries
apply 13 months as a rule. In Luxembourg, institutions may pay 12 months, 12.5
months or 13 months.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 21

The maximum AFR contributions to work contracts are indicated hereafter. In
case the AFR project fulfils the criteria for a public-private partnership (see section
‘Incentive for public-private partnerships’), an incentive is paid as indicated.
Postdoc
Max.
AFR
contribution
(incl.
employer’s charges)
Supplements paid in case of a PPP
54’231 €/yr
4’944 €/yr
Salary index as of 1st January 2011

A topping up by the employer is possible up to a certain amount (information
available upon request).

Based on the above figures, the gross salary paid to the AFR grantees in
Luxembourg (without PPP) corresponds to approx. 3.400 €/month for postdoc
beneficiaries, however it may vary depending for example on family status and on
other income. For a more accurate calculation of tax deductions you may run a
simulation
on
the
Luxembourg
tax
administration
website
under
https://saturn.etat.lu/cobar/baremePP.jsp

For AFR beneficiaries working in foreign countries under a work contract, the
employer’s charges/social security contributions may be different, leading to a higher
or, more often, lower gross salary (applicants should clarify in advance with their host
institution what will be their gross salary).

For host institutions that pay salaries below the amounts indicated (for example in the
case of a fixed public salary scale), the AFR contribution will be adapted accordingly.

For host institutions that pay salaries above the amount indicated, the AFR
contribution will not be increased.

Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 22
The AFR contribution as fellowship

Fellowships (without work contract) are paid directly to the grantee through monthly
instalments.

The maximum annual AFR fellowship contribution is indicated hereafter. In case the
AFR project fulfils the criteria for a public-private partnership (see section ‘Incentive
for public-private partnerships’), an incentive is paid as indicated.
Postdoc

Max. AFR contribution (fellowship)
25’200 €/yr
Supplement paid in case of a PPP
1’800 €/yr
The maximum AFR contribution (without PPP) amounts to 2’100 €/month for
Postdoc.
Health and Accident Insurance

It is mandatory that AFR beneficiaries have a valid health and accident insurance for
the full duration of their grant. In the case of a fellowship without a work contract, the
FNR will require a certificate indicating that the beneficiary will be co-insured through
a family insurance or other. Alternatively, a certificate of a specifically contracted
insurance will be required.

Beneficiaries who are not covered by a health and accident (H&A) insurance (i.e. by
parental or spouse’s insurance) and must contract an insurance are eligible for a
partial or full reimbursement (up to 300 EUR/month) of the insurance costs by the
FNR. The beneficiary has to submit a certificate delivered by the contracted
insurance company, indicating the name of the beneficiary, the start and end date of
the insurance, the insurance sum and conditions, and the costs of the insurance.
Travel allowance
For all AFR beneficiaries, the FNR allocates a one-off travel lump sum based on the airline
distance between the beneficiary’s residence at the moment of the application and his/her
host institution. This travel lump sum is calculated as follows:
Distance (airline) in km
< 500
500-1000
1000-1500
1500-2500
2500-5000
> 5000
Fixed-amount contribution (EUR)
250
500
750
1000
1500
2000
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 23
Other Income

Applicants must indicate any other sources of funding during the grant period.

Applicants have to inform the FNR immediately of any change in their income or if a
decision is made on funding of their application by any other institution or if they
apply for a fellowship from another institution after having submitted their application
to the FNR.

Researchers, who have been awarded a grant from an external source of funding for
an individual fellowship similar to AFR may apply under AFR. However, in case of
approval of the two grants, they will have to opt for one or the other. AFR does not
accept cumulating two grants for living costs of different origin.
Training Allowance

11.
The training allowance amounts to max. 2.000 €/yr and is paid to the Host
institution (in case of a work contract). In case of a fellowship it is paid directly to
the AFR fellow. It is the responsibility of the AFR beneficiary in agreement with
his/her supervisor(s) or main scientific contact to manage the travel allowance over
the AFR funding period (for AFR – Training allowance see Part I, chapter 13).
Applicant’s and Host Institution’s Joint Declaration
The HI legal representative

The HI Joint Declaration must be signed by the legal representative of the host
institution. In case of a fellowship (without work contract), the declaration may be
signed by the administrative or scientific responsible of the institution authorized to
decide upon the acceptance of research fellows by the institution. The
position/function of the signing responsible in the host institution has to be indicated
and the official stamp of the HI must be put on the declaration.
AFR Terms and Conditions

The AFR Terms and Conditions form the legal framework of AFR projects and clarify
the roles and responsibilities of the applicants, the host institutions as well as the
main scientific contact and any active partner in the project.

A copy of the AFR Terms and Conditions is available with the application documents.

Participants in the project declare that they have read and agree with the AFR terms
and conditions.
The European Charter and the Code of Conduct

The principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for
the recruitment of researchers form the basis for collaboration between the
applicants, the host institutions, the scientific collaborators and the FNR in the
framework of AFR projects.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 24

The FNR signed the Charter on 18th August 2008. In the framework of the AFR
projects, any conflict with the principles of the Charter or Code should be indicated to
the FNR who will address within a reasonable timeframe any problem that is raised.

A copy of the principles of the Charter and Code is available with the application
documents.
12.

APPENDICES: official certificates
Mandatory for all applicants:
- Copy of applicant's passport or alternatively, for EU nationals, a copy of the identity
card
- Copy of relevant academic diploma obtained and a copy of the statement of
courses and marks ("relevé de notes") of the most recent degree (translation
requirements, see guidelines, section 'Diploma').
To be submitted only if applicable:
- In case of additional income related to research activities during the grant period:
Copy of any document certifying additional income
- In the case of a fellowship (without work contract): Certificate of (co-)insurance for
health and accident for the duration of the grant, or alternatively, certificate by an
insurance company for a health and accident insurance, indicating the start and end
date of the insurance, the name of the insured person(s), the detailed content and
sums insured, as well as the costs of the insurance
-For non Luxembourg nationals only: Documents certifying the link with Luxembourg
(see Guidelines for Applicants, section 'Interest of the research project in the
Luxembourg R&D setting')
-For Documents certifying the eligibility of the Host Institution, if required: See
Guidelines for Applicants, section 'Eligibility of Host Institutions'

The letters of support by the scientific contact(s) should be sent separately to
the FNR before the elapse of the deadline, by email or postal mail as
confidential documents (addressed to FNR only). Please use the template
provided on the website www.afr.lu.

Be aware that completeness of the application is not checked by the electronic grant
submission system.
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 25
Annex 1 Application form (print-out of online version)
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 26
AFR - Postdoc Application Form
Postdoc Application Form
1.1
Applicant's Personal Data
Application ID:
Family Name:
Title:
Birth Family Name (if
different):
First Name(s):
Date of Birth:
Place of Birth:
Nationality:
If you have dual
nationality, select here:
Gender:
Addresses:
Current: *
Residence in Luxembourg:
(if different from current)
Street Name, Number:
PO Box:
Postal Code:
City/Town:
Country:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Use for
Correspondence:
Email Address for
Electronic
Correspondence:
Did You Receive a BFR/AFR Grant Before?
If "Yes", Indicate
BFR/AFR Period:
From:
To:
Ref.:
Is the Proposal a Resubmission of an Earlier AFR
Proposal by the Applicant?
1.2
Mobility
With reference to the 24 months preceding the call deadline, were you working the majority of time (>12 months) in a country
different from the AFR host institution's country?
1.3
Date of PhD Certificate
For beginning and end dates use the first of the month if you are not sure of the exact date.
Date of submission of PhD thesis:
(if date of PhD certificate not available)
Date of PhD examination:
Date of PhD Certificate:
1.4
Applicant's Educational and Research Curriculum *
Click the Add button to validate your entry before continuing.
High School Education (Baccalaureate):
Please note the question continues on the other page, scroll to the right to complete it.
Name of Institution:
City/Town:
Country:
Year the Degree Was
Awarded:
1.5
Undergraduate and Post-Graduate Education and Degrees:
Start with the most recent degree. *
Click the Add button to validate your entry before continuing.
Please note the question continues on the other page, scroll to the right to complete it.
For beginning and end dates use the first of the month if you are not sure of the exact date.
Designation
of the
Degree:
Name of the
Institution:
City/Town:
Country:
Beginning:
End:
Field:
Title of
Thesis:
Grade/Resul
ts:
1.6
If you had to interrupt your studies for more than 4 months, please indicate the duration and the reason of this
interruption.
1.7
Applicant's Professional Curriculum (if applicable):
Please provide a summary of employment history.
Start with the most recent employer.
Click the Add button to validate your entry before continuing.
Please note the question continues on the other page, scroll to the right to complete it.
Name of
Employer/Organisa
tion:
1.8
City/Country:
Department:
Applicant CV
Please attach your CV in PDF Format (Max 3 pages):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded, please
REMOVE it first then RENAME it before uploading it back to
the system.
Position/Job Title:
Beginning:
End:
1.9
Do you have any peer reviewed scientific publications?
If 'Yes', please include in CV.
1.10
Language Proficiency.
Please list all the languages in the first column and indicate with a number from 1 to 5 degree of your knowledge. (1=native
speaker, 2=excellent, 3=good, 4=average, 5=weak).
Click the Add button to validate your entry before continuing.
Please note the question continues on the other page, scroll to the right to complete it.
Language:
Speaking:
Writing:
Reading/Understanding:
1.11
Any other aspect of your professional or personal background that you consider of interest in the context of this
application. (scientific or other, e.g. awards, stays abroad, hobbies, etc).
2. Host Institution's Details
If a question doesn't apply please leave the field blank, DO NOT use N.A. or n.a. or any variation!
2.1
Host Institution Details
For more information please consult the Guidelines
for Applicants; Part II: Specific Guidelines relating to application form; Point II: Host Institution.
Host Institution Details
Name of Host
Institution (HI):
Department or
Research Group:
Percentage of Work
Time Spent in HI:
Address Details of HI
Building No./Name:
Street Name:
PO Box:
City/Town:
Postal Code:
Country:
Internet site:
Description of the Host Institution's research
group, including number of researchers,
list of major publications, description of
equipment and facilities,
description of supervision support (max. 2 p):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded,
please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before
uploading it back to the system.
2.2
Administrative Contact Details of HI:
(contact person for the AFR contractual and administrative issues)
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
2.3
Scientific Contact Details of HI
All scientific contacts have to provide a CV (maximum 4 pages) and a confidential support letter for the candidate using the template available on the FNR Website
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Department:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
Website of Research
Unit or Institution:
CV of max. 4 pages (also indicating PhD and
postdoc supervision experience).
The CV (including record of relevant publications)
must not exceed 4 pages,
otherwise only the 4 first pages will be
forwarded to the remote evaluators!):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded,
please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before
uploading it back to the system.
2.4
2nd Scientific Contact Details of HI
All scientific contacts have to provide a CV (maximum 4 pages) and a confidential support letter for the candidate using the template from the FNR.
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Department:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
CV of max. 4 pages (also indicating PhD and
postdoc supervision experience).
The CV (including record of relevant publications)
must not exceed 4 pages,
otherwise only the 4 first pages will be
forwarded to the remote evaluators!):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded,
please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before
uploading it back to the system.
2.5
Is the HI a private company?
2.6
2nd Collaborating Institution Details (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
Name of 2nd
Collaborating
Institution:
Department or
Research Group:
Percentage of Work
Time Spent in
Institution:
2.7
Address Details of 2nd Collaborating Institution: (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
Building No./Name:
Street Name:
PO Box:
City/Town:
Postal Code:
Country:
Internet Site:
2.8
Administrative Contact Details of 2nd Collaborating Institution: (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
2.9
Scientific Contact Details of 2nd CI (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
All scientific contacts have to provide a CV (maximum 4 pages) and a confidential support letter for the candidate using the template from the FNR.
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Department:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
Website of Research
Unit or Institution:
CV of max. 4 pages (also indicating PhD and
postdoc supervision experience).
The CV (including record of relevant publications)
must not exceed 4 pages,
otherwise only the 4 first pages will be
forwarded to the remote evaluators!):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded,
please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before
uploading it back to the system.
2.10
2nd Scientific Contact Details of 2nd CI (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
All scientific contacts have to provide a CV (maximum 4 pages) and a confidential support letter for the candidate using the template from the FNR.
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Department:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
CV of max. 4 pages (also indicating PhD and
postdoc supervision experience).
The CV (including record of relevant publications)
must not exceed 4 pages,
otherwise only the 4 first pages will be
forwarded to the remote evaluators!):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded,
please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before
uploading it back to the system.
2.11
Address Details of 3rd Collaborating Institution: (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
Name of 3rd
Collaborating
Institution:
Department or
Research Group:
Percentage of Work
Time Spent in
Institution:
Building No./Name:
Street Name:
PO Box:
City/Town:
Postal Code:
Country:
Internet Site:
2.12
Administrative Contact Details of 3rd Collaborating Institution: (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
2.13
Scientific Contact Details of 3rd CI (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
All scientific contacts have to provide a CV (maximum 4 pages) and a confidential support letter for the candidate using the template from the FNR.
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Department:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
Website of Research
Unit or Institution:
CV of max. 4 pages (also indicating PhD and
postdoc supervision experience).
The CV (including record of relevant
publications) must not exceed 4 pages,
otherwise only the 4 first pages will be forwarded
to the remote evaluators!):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded,
please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before
uploading it back to the system.
2.14
2nd Scientific Contact Details of 3rd CI (If not applicable leave the Fields blank)
All scientific contacts have to provide a CV (maximum 4 pages) and a confidential support letter for the candidate using the template from the FNR.
Title:
First Name:
Surname:
Department:
Phone Number:
Fax Number:
Email:
CV of max. 4 pages (also indicating PhD and
postdoc supervision experience).
The CV (including record of relevant publications)
must not exceed 4 pages,
otherwise only the 4 first pages will be forwarded
to the remote evaluators!):
If you want to replace the file already uploaded,
please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before
uploading it back to the system.
2.15
Other Collaborations
Indicate any other (potential) partners in the project that are not formally collaborating, for instance potential users of research
results or other collaborators in Luxembourg or abroad (for example data providers etc) that you intend to involve in the
project, but are not yet formally involved. Indicate their potential role or interest in the project.
2.16
Travel Allowance
Please indicate the approximate distance in kilometres
between your current point of residence and the location of
the host institution.
3. Description of the Research Project
Description of the Research Project
3.1
Description of the Research Project
Project Title:
(max. 20 words)
Project Acronym:
(max. 15 characters)
Project Start:
Project End:
Requested Start of AFR
Funding:
Total Months of
Requested AFR
Funding:
3.2
Project Abstract
(to be submitted in English, max. 300 words) *
Up to 6 Keywords Related to the Research Topic:
3.3
Select Thematic Domain
3.4
Select Primary and Secondary Domains/Sub Domains
Please select from the list one main research domain at level and one or more subdomains (by holding the CTRL Key).
None.
None.
3.5
Project Description
If you want to replace the file already uploaded, please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before uploading it back to the system.
The Template to be used for the Project Description and to be uploaded in this section is available here
3.6
Project Framework
Is your project part of a peer reviewed
multiannual research project (national, European,
international)?
If "Yes", Please State
Project Title:
Funding Institution:
Total Budget in EUR
(Optional):
If the FNR is the funding institution, please
provide the provisional or final reference number
of the project:
Project Start:
Project End:
Project Status:
Please give a 1-page description of the scope/objectives of the larger multiannual project, including sub-projects, collaborators
and interactions between the different project parts. Clearly indicate how the AFR project contributes to the objectives of the
greater project. Please also state the applicant's autonomy, in particular in view of the publication of results.
Where the funding decision is still pending, please state if and how your project will be affected in case the funding for the
multiannual project is declined.
4. Interest of the Research Project in the Luxembourg R&D Setting
Interest of the Research Project in the Luxembourg R&D Setting
4.1
Interest of the Research Project in the Luxembourg R&D Setting.
(Refer to Guidelines, section 'Interest of the project in the Luxembourg R&D setting')
Please provide a detailled description of the interest for Luxembourg under additional comments.
Does your project have a link with Luxembourg?
If yes please tick where appropriate:
 Project carried out in Luxembourg in the framework of a peer reviewed research project evaluated on a national, European or
international level
 Project carried out in a private company or in collaboration with a private company in Luxembourg committed to offering guidance to
the candidate
 Project carried out in collaboration with a public research center, a public body or a non-profit association or foundation in
Luxembourg committed to offering guidance to the candidate
 Project takes place in a research area of interest for Luxembourg
 Personal link with Luxembourg (tick where
appropriate):
Additional Comments:
5. Public - Private Partnership
Public - Private Partnership
5.1
Public - Private Partnership
To be eligible as a PPP, the company must figure as a collaborating institution and must fulfill the conditions of the PPP.
For more information please consult the Guidelines for Applicants; Part II: Specific Guidelines relating to application form; Point V: Public-private partnerships.
Do you apply for the financial incentive offered by
the AFR scheme for public-private partnerships in
Luxembourg?
Please describe specifically the collaboration with the private company in your research project, for example, development of a
product or prototype, experiments, time spent in the company, etc...(Refer to guidelines, section 'Incentives for Public Private
Partnerships'):
(max. 0.5 page)
5.2
Public-Private Partnership Incentive
If you want to replace the file already uploaded, please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before uploading it back to the system.
These documents are only required for projects under the Public-Private Partnership incentive.
- Contract between a public research body and a private company, including Intellectual Property Right (IPR) agreement.
- Copy of the official accreditation of the private company by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (see Guidelines, section 'Eligible
Host Institutions')
- Letter by the scientific contact in the company mentioning the objectives of the project from the perspective of the private
company and the contribution of the company to the project and to the training/career development of the applicant. (maximum
1 page)
If one of these documents is not available yet please comment:
6. Ethical Issues
Ethical Issues
6.1
Ethical Issues
Does the project give
rise to any ethical
issues?
If 'Yes', please indicate how these issues have been addressed:
7. Data Protection
Data Protection
7.1
Data Protection
Does the project have
specific data protection
requirements?
If 'Yes', please indicate how these issues have been addressed:
8. Training Plan and Personal Statement
Training Plan and Personal Statement
8.1
Training Plan
If you want to replace the file already uploaded, please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before uploading it back to the system.
Describe the training foreseen in the course of your project. If no training is scheduled by your host institution, please describe
any scientific or methodological training planned or envisaged.Moreover, indicate any non scientific training that you intend to
participate in (project management, ethics, IPR, English language course, soft skills such as communication, public speaking,
grant writing, promotion of scientific culture …).
Indicate a training plan for the full duration of your grant period, comprising the title, location, dates and duration of courses,
scientific conferences, summer-schools or other training that you plan to attend, as far as known. Add an internet reference of
training courses, if available.
For further details about the training plan, in particular the funding through FNR Accompanying Measures, please refer to the
guidelines under the section ”Training and career development”
8.2
Personal Statement
If you want to replace the file already uploaded, please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before uploading it back to the system.
Including Career Development Perspectives (max. 1 page)
Please state briefly the reasons of your choice of research project and why this is important to you. Please also explain the
reasons for your choice of research institution, why you think you are a suitable candidate for the chosen research project and
how your choice fits with your future career plan.
9. Type of Grant Requested
Type of Grant Requested
9.1
Type of Grant Requested
Type of AFR grant requested (tick
as appropriate):
Time to be spent on the research
project:
If part-time
please specify:
Indication of occupation in the
remaining part-time (optional):
9.2
In Case of an AFR Fellowship (Not work contract based):
Do you have a health and accident insurance?
(See guidelines, section 'Health and Accident Insurance')
Additional amount requested for health and accident
insurance in EUR/Month:
Start date of insurance:
9.3
End date of insurance:
In Case of an AFR-Based Work Contract:
What will be your salary during the period of the AFR grant?
(Information to be provided by the Host Institution, according to Guidelines, section 'The AFR contribution to a work contract')
Gross salary per month in Euro
Full salary costs per year in Euro (incl. employers' part of social security)
9.4
Income Other Than the AFR Funding During the Project:
Do you receive any income or did you apply for any other
grant for the AFR project period?
(See Guidelines, section 'Other income')
Please indicate hereafter the source of income, the amount per month or year, the period, the status 'requested' or 'granted':
Applicants have to inform the FNR immediately if a decision is
made on funding of their application by any other institution or
if they apply for a fellowship from another institution after
having submitted their application to the FNR.
10. Applicant's and Host Institution's Joint Declaration
Applicant's and Host Institution's Joint Declaration
10.1
Applicant's and Host Institution's Joint Declaration
The HI Joint Declaration must be signed by the legal representative of the host institution. In case of a fellowship (without work contract), the declaration may be
signed by the administrative or scientific responsible of the institution authorized to decide upon the acceptance of research fellows by the institution. The
position/function of the signing responsible in the host institution has to be indicated and the official stamp of the HI must be put on the declaration.
In completing this application, the Applicant and the Host Institution (HI) confirm that to the best of their knowledge and belief,
the information in this application is complete and correct.
Both the applicant and the HI will inform the National Research Fund immediately if the intended project cannot be carried out
as foreseen or if a major change occurs that may hinder the planned implementation of the project.
The applicant and the HI declare that they have read and agree with the AFR Terms and Conditions that form an integral part of
the application documents published on the FNR website and that form the legal basis of the future AFR contract. Furthermore,
they take note that the FNR is committed to the principles of the European Charter for Researchers and the Code of Conduct for
their Recruitment, and they are required to declare any conflict of interest with the principles of the Charter and Code of
Conduct to the FNR.
The HI declares to host the applicant according to the indications given in the present form, and in particular under chapter VIII
'Type of grant requested'. The HI declares to offer to the applicant the working conditions and office space, access to
laboratories, libraries, and other premises necessary to carry out his/her research project successfully.
The applicant and the HI agree that the data required for the research grant application and follow-up are electronically stored
and used by the FNR. The FNR will use the data provided by the applicant and the HI according to the legal requirements of
data protection in Luxembourg, including the use of the anonymized data for statistical purposes and reports.
The applicant and the HI agree that the FNR will forward the full application form including their personal data to the members
of the AFR expert panel and to experts involved in the evaluation of their proposal in Luxembourg and abroad (EU and outside
EU). The panel members and experts must declare in advance that they will treat data confidentially and that they will not
forward the data or the knowledge gained to anyone nor use it for their own purpose.
Furthermore, the applicant and the HI agree that the following information may be included in lists published by the FNR (e.g.
project database on FNR website): Full name of the beneficiary; nationality; email address; name, location and country of the
host institution and collaborationg institutions; name of scientific contact and research group/department, title of research
project; abstract; field of research and key words; expected or real start date and end date respectively status of the research
project (ongoing, finished).
Application ID:
Name of Applicant:
Location and Date:
Signature of Applicant:
Title of legal
representative of HI:
First name of legal
representative of HI:
Family name of legal
representative of HI:
Email of legal
representative of HI:
Function:
Location and Date:
Signature of HI legal
representative:
Official Stamp of the HI:
11. Appendices
Appendices
11.1
Appendix: Official certificates
Please make sure that the requested uploads are all copied in one PDF file.
Please upload all copies as one PDF file:
If you want to replace the file already uploaded, please REMOVE it first then RENAME it before uploading it back to the system.
Mandatory for all applicants:
- Copy of applicant's passport or alternatively, for EU nationals, a copy of the identity card
- Copy of relevant academic diploma obtained and a copy of the statement of courses and marks ("relevé de notes") of the most
recent degree (translation requirements, see guidelines, section 'Diploma').
To be submitted only if applicable:
- In case of additional income related to research activities during the grant period: Copy of any document certifying additional
income
- In the case of a fellowship (without work contract): Certificate of (co-)insurance for health and accident for the duration of the
grant, or alternatively, certificate by an insurance company for a health and accident insurance, indicating the start and end
date of the insurance, the name of the insured person(s), the detailed content and sums insured, as well as the costs of the
insurance
-For non Luxembourg nationals only: Documents certifying the link with Luxembourg (see Guidelines for Applicants, section
'Interest of the research project in the Luxembourg R&D setting')
-For Documents certifying the eligibility of the Host Institution, if required: See Guidelines for Applicants, section 'Eligibility of
Host Institutions'
12. Feedback
Feedback
12.1
How did you find out about the AFR grant scheme?
12.2
Problems encountered with application form and guidelines:
12.3
Recommendations:
Annex 2 Postdoc Project Description and Ethical Issues
Table
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 27
AFR Postdoc Application Form
Postdoc Project Description and Ethical Issues
Table
To be uploaded as .pdf to the AFR-PDR online submission tool
before the deadline of submission
Deadline: 07th March 2012, 14h00
Please carefully read the Guidelines for Applicants before starting the description of your
proposal. Bear in mind that the proposal will be evaluated according to the selection criteria set
out in the guidelines. To be successful, the description has to clearly address these criteria.
The project description must use the headings on page 2. To allow a better reading, please
delete the explanations below the headings when you complete the form. The maximum
number of 12 pages should be respected; otherwise the FNR may decide to only forward the
first 12 pages to the external evaluators.
Name of Applicant:
Project Title:
Project acronym:
Project’s keywords:
Public-private partnership: yes - no 1
Name and country of host institution:
Name of scientific contact in HI:
Name and country of 2nd institution (if applicable):
Name of scientific contact in 2nd institution (if applicable):
Envisaged or effective project start:
Duration of AFR funding requested:
1
Delete as appropriate
Page 1
AFR Project description
The project description must follow the structure hereafter:
1. Introduction and literature review
Give a brief review of the literature in your research field, highlighting the scientific
interest, including your own previous work, the ongoing developments, leading research
groups in the field and the contribution you intend to make to the field.
2. Research objectives
Give a clear definition of the hypotheses of the research project and the objectives to be
achieved in a realistic and, as far as possible, measurable form.
3. Innovation/originality
What is the innovation/originality of the research project?
4. Methodology
Present the methodology to test the hypotheses and to reach the objectives defined
above.
5. Work plan
Describe the different stages of activities (i.e. workpackages, milestones) with the
corresponding timetable (when?), location (where?) and collaborating research groups
(with whom?), preferably in spreadsheet format.
6. Risks
Indicate potential risks of your project and how you intend to prevent or address them.
7. Expected outcomes
What are the expected project outputs and mid to long-term perspectives of your
research?
8. Bibliography (short) and list of abbreviations

For projects carried out under the responsibility of more than one scientific contact, add a
brief description of the (complementary) roles of each contact involved in the project
AFR Postdoc Application Form Annex: Project Description
Page 2
ETHICAL ISSUES TABLE
(Note: Research involving activities marked with an asterisk * in the left column in the table
below will be referred automatically to Ethics Review)
Research on Human Embryo/Foetus
Yes Page
Does the proposed research involve human Embryos?
Does the proposed research involve human Foetal Tissues/ Cells?
Does the proposed research involve human Embryonic Stem Cells (hESCs)?
Does the proposed research on human Embryonic Stem Cells involve cells in culture?
Does the proposed research on Human Embryonic Stem Cells involve the derivation of
cells from Embryos?
I CONFIRM THAT NONE OF THE ABOVE ISSUES APPLY TO MY PROPOSAL
Research on Humans
*
*
*
*
*
*
*
Does the proposed research involve children?
Does the proposed research involve patients?
Does the proposed research involve persons not able to give consent?
Does the proposed research involve adult healthy volunteers?
Does the proposed research involve Human genetic material?
Does the proposed research involve Human biological samples?
Does the proposed research involve Human data collection?
I CONFIRM THAT NONE OF THE ABOVE ISSUES APPLY TO MY PROPOSAL
*
Does the proposed research involve processing of genetic information or
personal data (e.g. health, sexual lifestyle, ethnicity, political opinion, religious or
philosophical conviction)?
Does the proposed research involve tracking the location or observation of people?
I CONFIRM THAT NONE OF THE ABOVE ISSUES APPLY TO MY PROPOSAL
Privacy
*
Research on Animals
*
*
*
*
*
Yes Page
Yes Page
Does the proposed research involve research on animals?
Are those animals transgenic small laboratory animals?
Are those animals transgenic farm animals?
Are those animals non-human primates?
Are those animals cloned farm animals?
I CONFIRM THAT NONE OF THE ABOVE ISSUES APPLY TO MY PROPOSAL
Research on Animals
*
Yes Page
Yes Page
Does the proposed research involve the use of local resources (genetic, animal, plant,
etc)?
Is the proposed research of benefit to local communities (e.g. capacity building, access
to healthcare, education, etc)?
I CONFIRM THAT NONE OF THE ABOVE ISSUES APPLY TO MY PROPOSAL
Dual Use
* Research having direct military use
* Research having the potential for terrorist abuse
Yes Page
I CONFIRM THAT NONE OF THE ABOVE ISSUES APPLY TO MY PROPOSAL
AFR Postdoc Application Form Annex: Project Description
Page 3
Annex 3 General checklist for the online grant application
submission
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 28
General checklist for the online grant application submission
1. Create an account on https://grants.fnr.lu
2. Create a new application. Check the Tutorial and Guidelines for applicants on http://www.afr.lu
3. Start completing the online application form. Note:
-
You can save the application at any moment and continue at a later time.
You should only generate the PDF Document once the whole application is completed.
Your uploaded documents will only appear in your document list after you saved the form with the
option “Form fully completed and ready for PDF Generation”.
The Cover Sheet only auto fills its information after you completed the main application form.
At any moment you can generate a new PDF Document by clicking “To Do” next to the PDF
Generation Task in your To Do List and redoing the PDF generation.
4. On several stages of the application process you will have to upload documents (CVs, Project
Description, Diploma, etc.). Ensure that these documents are in the file format .PDF
Ensure that these files are not password protected or encrypted.
5. Ensure that you correctly filled all sections of the application form. The system partially warns you of
mandatory sections but put a special attention on the completeness of documents that need to be uploaded.
Crosscheck especially following application points together with your Host Institution :
-
Administrative Contact Names (Section 2)
Requested funding start date and duration (Section 3.1)
Gross and Full salary in case of a work contract (Section 9.3)
Name of legal representative (Section 10)
6. Ensure that you marked quotations in your Project Description based on international standards. Your
application will be checked for plagiarism!
7. Ensure that Supervisor(s) , Co-Supervisor(s) and Scientific contact(s) listed in Section 2 of the
application form have sent their confidential reference reports to the FNR before the Deadline.
We will have to receive at least 1 reference report per Institution listed in Section 2. Reference reports from
the main scientific contact of the Host Institution and the collaborating institution(s) are mandatory.
Link to the report template for PhD Applications:
http://www.fnr.lu/en/content/download/7049/37556/version/1/file/090723_Reference+Letter_PHD_TEMPLATE.doc
Link to the report template for Postdoc Applications:
http://www.fnr.lu/en/content/download/7063/37615/version/1/file/090723_Reference+Letter_PDR_TEMPLATE.doc
Put special attention to this point. Non received reference reports will make your application
ineligible!
8. Print the final version of your application (Generated PDF including all annexes).
9. Validate the Paper Copy of the proposal with your Supervisor and/or Host Institution.
10. Sign Section 10 of the proposal (Joint Declaration).Ensure that the section is also signed by the Host
Institution’s Legal Representative.
11. Ensure that you correctly submitted the proposal via the online submission system before the deadline.
Check if you received the automated acknowledgement of receipt per e-mail.
Check after the submission if the task disappeared from your Inbox in the online system. If not the proposal
was not correctly submitted. In that case, contact the technical support for assistance. ([email protected])
12. Ensure that the signed and complete paper copy of the proposal arrives at the FNR office not later than
5 working days after the electronic deadline. (Electronic Deadline; Postdoc 07.03.2012; PhD 28.03.2012)
The non fulfillment of above points can lead to the ineligibility of your application.
AFR online submission checklist v2 18/01/2012
Annex 4 - Research domains according to ERC
(European Research Council)
Level 1 – Main Research Domain
Choose your main research domain from the 25 research fields listed below.
SH
SH1
SH2
SH3
SH4
SH5
SH6
Social Sciences and Humanities
Individuals, institutions and markets
Institutions, values, beliefs and behaviour
Environment and society
The Human Mind and its complexity
Cultures and cultural production
The study of the human past
PEMathematics, physical sciences, information and communication, engineering,
universe and earth sciences
PE1
Mathematical foundations
PE2
Fundamental constituents of matter
PE3
Condensed matter physics
PE4
Physical and Analytical Chemical sciences
PE5
Materials and Synthesis
PE6
Computer science and informatics
PE7
Systems and communication engineering
PE8
Products and process engineering
PE9
Universe sciences
PE10 Earth system science
LSLS1
LS2
LS3
LS4
LS5
LS6
LS7
LS8
LS9
Life Sciences
Molecular and Structural Biology and Biochemistry
Genetics, Genomics, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology
Cellular and Developmental Biology
Physiology, Pathophysiology and Endocrinology
Neurosciences and neural disorders
Immunity and infection
Diagnostic tools, therapies and public health
Evolutionary, population and environmental biology
Applied life sciences and biotechnology
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 29
Level 2 – Research Subdomains
SH1 Individuals, institutions and markets
SH1_1 Macroeconomics, growth, business cycles
SH1_2 Microeconomics, institutional economics
SH1_3 Econometrics, statistical methods
SH1_4 Financial markets, banking and corporate finance
SH1_5 Competitiveness, innovation, research and development
SH1_6 Consumer choice, behavioural economics, marketing
SH1_7 Organization studies, strategy
SH1_8 Human resource management, employment and earnings
SH1_9 Public administration, public economics
SH1_10 Income distribution, poverty
SH1_11 International trade, economic geography
SH1_12 Economic history, development
SH2 Institutions, values, beliefs and behaviour
SH2_1 Social structure, inequalities, social mobility
SH2_2 Ageing, work, social policies
SH2_3 Kinship, cultural dimensions of classification and cognition, individual and social identity,
gender
SH2_4 Myth, ritual, symbolic representations, religious studies
SH2_5 Ethnography
SH2_6 Globalization, migration, interethnic relations
SH2_7 Transformation of societies, democratization, social movements
SH2_8 Political systems, legitimacy of governance
SH2_9 Legal systems, constitutions, foundations of law
SH2_10 Private, public and social law
SH2_11 Global and transnational governance, international law, human rights
SH2_12 Communication networks, media, information society
SH2_13 Social studies of science and technology, S&T policies, science and society
SH2_14 History of science and technology
SH3 Environment and society
SH3_1 Environment and sustainability
SH3_2 Environmental regulation and mediation
SH3_3 Social and industrial ecology
SH3_4 Geographical information systems, cartography
SH3_5 Human and social geography
SH3_6 Spatial and regional planning
SH3_7 Population dynamics
SH3_8 Urbanization and urban planning, cities
SH3_9 Mobility and transportation
SH4 The Human Mind and its complexity
SH4_1 Evolution of mind and cognitive functions, animal communication
SH4_2 Human life-span development
SH4_3 Neuropsychology and cognitive psychology
SH4_4 Clinical and experimental psychology,
SH4_5 Formal, cognitive, functional and computational linguistics
SH4_6 Typological, historical and comparative linguistics
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 30
SH4_7 Acquisition and knowledge of language: psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics
SH4_8 Use of language: pragmatics, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis
SH4_9 second language teaching and learning, language pathologies, lexicography, terminology
SH4_10 Philosophy, history of philosophy
SH4_11 Epistemology, logic, philosophy of science
SH4_12 Ethics and morality, bioethics
SH4_13 Education: principles, techniques, typologies
SH5 Cultures and cultural production
SH5_1 Classics
SH5_2 History of literature
SH5_3 Literary theory and comparative literature, literary styles
SH5_4 Textual philology and palaeography
SH5_5 Visual arts
SH5_6 Performing arts
SH5_7 Museums and exhibitions
SH5_8 Numismatics, epigraphy
SH5_9 Music and musicology, history of music
SH5_10 History of art and architecture
SH5_11 Cultural studies, cultural diversity
SH5_12 Cultural memory, intangible cultural heritage
SH6 The study of the human past
SH6_1 Archaeology, archaeometry, landscape archaeology
SH6_2 Prehistory and protohistory
SH6_3 Ancient history, ancient cultures
SH6_4 Medieval history
SH6_5 Modern and contemporary history
SH6_6 Colonial history, entangled histories, global history
SH6_7 Military history,
SH6_8 Historiography, theory and methods of history
SH6_9 History of ideas, intellectual history
SH6_10 Social, economic, cultural and political history
SH6_11Collective memories, identities, lieux de mémoire, oral history
SH6_12 Cultural heritage
PE1 Mathematical foundations
PE1_1 Logic and foundations
PE1_2 Algebra
PE1_3 Number theory
PE1_4 Algebraic and complex geometry
PE1_5 Geometry
PE1_6 Topology
PE1_7 Lie groups, Lie algebras
PE1_8 Analysis
PE1_9 Operator algebras and functional analysis
PE1_10 ODE and dynamical systems
PE1_11 Partial differential equations
PE1_12 Mathematical physics
PE1_13 Probability and statistics
PE1_14 Combinatorics
Guidelines for Applicants – AFR Postdoc Grants; 20.04.2011
Page | 31
PE1_15 Mathematical aspects of computer science
PE1_16 Numerical analysis and scientific computing
PE1_17 Control theory and optimization
PE1_18 Application of mathematics in sciences
PE2 Fundamental constituents of matter
PE2_1 Fundamental interactions and fields
PE2_2 Particle physics
PE2_3 Nuclear physics
PE2_4 Nuclear astrophysics
PE2_5 Gas and plasma physics
PE2_6 Electromagnetism
PE2_7 Atomic, molecular physics
PE2_8 Optics and quantum optics
PE2_9 Lasers and laser physics
PE2_10 Acoustics
PE2_11 Relativity
PE2_12 Classical physics
PE2_13 Thermodynamics
PE2_14 Non-linear physics
PE2_15 General physics
PE2_16 Metrology and measurement
PE2_17 Statistical physics (gases)
PE3 Condensed matter physics
PE3_1 Structure of solids and liquids
PE3_2 Mechanical and acoustical properties of condensed matter
PE3_3 Thermal properties of condensed matter
PE3_4 Transport properties of condensed matter,
PE3_5 Electronic properties of materials and transport
PE3_6 Lattice dynamics
PE3_7 Semiconductors
PE3_8 Superconductivity
PE3_9 Superfluids
PE3_10 Spintronics
PE3_11 Magnetism
PE3_12 Nanophysics: nanoelectronics, nanophotonics, nanomagnetism
PE3_13 Mesoscopic physics
PE3_14 Molecular electronics
PE3_15 Soft condensed matter (liquid crystals…)
PE3_16 Fluid dynamics (physics)
PE3_17 Statistical physics (condensed matter)
PE3_18 Phase transitions, phase equilibria
PE3_19 Biophysics
PE4 Physical and Analytical Chemical sciences
PE4_1 Physical chemistry
PE4_2 Nanochemistry
PE4_3 Spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques
PE4_4 Molecular architecture and Structure
PE4_5 Surface science
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PE4_6 Analytical chemistry
PE4_7 Chemical physics
PE4_8 Chemical instrumentation
PE4_9 Electrochemistry, electrodialysis, microfluidics
PE4_10 Combinatorial chemistry
PE4_11 Method development in chemistry
PE4_12 Catalysis
PE4_13 Physical chemistry of biological systems
PE4_14 Chemical reactions: mechanisms, dynamics, kinetics and catalytic reactions
PE4_15 Theoretical and computational chemistry
PE4_16 Radiation chemistry
PE4_17 Nuclear chemistry
PE4_18 Photochemistry
PE5 Materials and Synthesis
PE5_1 Structural properties of materials
PE5_2 Solid state materials
PE5_3 Surface modification
PE5_4 Thin films
PE5_5 Corrosion
PE5_6 Porous materials
PE5_7 Ionic liquids
PE5_8 New materials: oxides, alloys, composite, organic-inorganic hybrid, superconductors
PE5_9 Materials for sensors
PE5_10 Nanomaterials : nanoparticles, nanotubes
PE5_11 Biomaterials synthesis
PE5_12 Intelligent materials – self assembled materials
PE5_13 Environment chemistry
PE5_14 Coordination chemistry
PE5_15 Colloid chemistry
PE5_16 Biological chemistry
PE5_17 Chemistry of condensed matter
PE5_18 Homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis
PE5_19 Characterization methods of materials
PE5_20 Macromolecular chemistry,
PE5_21 Polymer chemistry
PE5_22 Supramolecular chemistry
PE5_23 Organic chemistry
PE5_24 Molecular chemistry
PE6 Computer science and informatics
PE6_1 Computer architecture
PE6_2 Database management
PE6_3 Formal methods
PE6_4 Graphics and image processing
PE6_5 Human computer interaction and interface
PE6_6 Informatics and information systems
PE6_7 Theoretical computer science including quantum information
PE6_8 Intelligent systems
PE6_9 Scientific computing
PE6_10 Modelling tools
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PE6_11 Multimedia
PE6_12 Parallel and Distributed Computing
PE6_13 Speech recognition
PE6_14 Systems and software
PE7 Systems and communication engineering
PE7_1 Control engineering
PE7_2 Electrical and electronic engineering: semiconductors, components, systems
PE7_4 Simulation engineering and modelling
PE7_5 Systems engineering, sensorics, actorics, automation
PE7_6 Micro- and nanoelectronics, optoelectronics
PE7_7 Communication technology, high-frequency technology
PE7_8 Signal processing
PE7_9 Networks
PE7_10 Man-machine-interfaces
PE7_11 Robotics
PE8 Products and process engineering
PE8_1 Aerospace engineering
PE8_2 Chemical engineering, technical chemistry
PE8_3 Civil engineering, maritime/hydraulic engineering, geotechnics, waste treatment
PE8_4 Computational engineering
PE8_5 Fluid mechanics, hydraulic-, turbo-, and piston engines
PE8_6 Energy systems (production, distribution, application)
PE8_7 Micro(system) engineering,
PE8_8 Mechanical and manufacturing engineering (shaping, mounting, joining, separation)
PE8_9 Materials engineering (biomaterials, metals, ceramics, polymers, composites, …)
PE8_10 Production technology, process engineering
PE8_11 Product design, ergonomics, man-machine interfaces
PE8_12 Lightweight construction, textile technology
PE8_13 Industrial bioengineering
PE8_14 Industrial biofuel production
PE9 Universe sciences
PE9_1 Solar and interplanetary physics
PE9_2 Planetary systems sciences
PE9_3 Interstellar medium
PE9_4 Formation of stars and planets
PE9_5 Astrobiology
PE9_6 Stars and stellar systems
PE9_7 The Galaxy
PE9_8 Formation and evolution of galaxies
PE9_9 Clusters of galaxies and large scale structures
PE9_10 High energy and particles astronomy – X-rays, cosmic rays, gamma rays, neutrinos
PE9_11 Relativistic astrophysics
PE9_12 Dark matter, dark energy
PE9_13 Gravitational astronomy
PE9_14 Cosmology
PE9_15 Space Sciences
PE9_16 Very large data bases: archiving, handling and analysis
PE9_17 Instrumentation - telescopes, detectors and techniques
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PE9_18 Solar planetology
PE10 Earth system science
PE10_1 Atmospheric chemistry, atmospheric composition, air pollution
PE10_2 Meteorology, atmospheric physics and dynamics
PE10_3 Climatology and climate change
PE10_4 Terrestrial ecology, land cover change,
PE10_5 Geology, tectonics, volcanology,
PE10_6 Paleoclimatology, paleoecology
PE10_7 Physics of earth's interior, seismology, volcanology
PE10_8 Oceanography (physical, chemical, biological)
PE10_9 Biogeochemistry, biogeochemical cycles, environmental chemistry
PE10_10 Mineralogy, petrology, igneous petrology, metamorphic petrology
PE10_11 Geochemistry, crystal chemistry, isotope geochemistry, thermodynamics,
PE10_13 Sedimentology, soil science, palaeontology, earth evolution
PE10_14 Physical geography
PE10_15 Earth observations from space/remote sensing
PE10_16 Geomagnetism, paleomagnetism
PE10_17 Ozone, upper atmosphere, ionosphere
PE10_18 Hydrology, water and soil pollution
LS1 Molecular and Structural Biology and Biochemistry
LS1_1 Molecular biology and interactions
LS1_2 General biochemistry and metabolism
LS1_3 DNA biosynthesis, modification, repair and degradation
LS1_4 RNA synthesis, processing, modification and degradation
LS1_5 Protein synthesis, modification and turnover
LS1_6 Biophysics
LS1_7 Structural biology (crystallography, NMR, EM)
LS1_8 Biochemistry of signal transduction
LS2 Genetics, Genomics, Bioinformatics and Systems Biology
LS2_1 Genomics, comparative genomics, functional genomics
LS2_2 Transcriptomics
LS2_3 Proteomics
LS2_4 Metabolomics
LS2_5 Glycomics
LS2_6 Molecular genetics, reverse genetics and RNAi
LS2_7 Quantitative genetics
LS2_8 Epigenetics and gene regulation
LS2_9 Genetic epidemiology
LS2_10 Bioinformatics
LS2_11 Computational biology
LS2_12 Biostatistics
LS2_13 Systems biology
LS2_14 Biological systems analysis, modelling and simulation
LS3 Cellular and Developmental Biology
LS3_1 Morphology and functional imaging of cells
LS3_2 Cell biology and molecular transport mechanisms
LS3_3 Cell cycle and division
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LS3_4 Apoptosis
LS3_5 Cell differentiation, physiology and dynamics
LS3_6 Organelle biology
LS3_7 Cell signalling and cellular interactions
LS3_8 Signal transduction
LS3_9 Development, developmental genetics, pattern formation and embryology in animals
LS3_10 Development, developmental genetics, pattern formation and embryology in plants
LS3_11 Cell genetics
LS3_12 Stem cell biology
LS4 Physiology, Pathophysiology and Endocrinology
LS4_1 Organ physiology
LS4_2 Comparative physiology
LS4_3 Endocrinology
LS4_4 Ageing
LS4_5 Metabolism, biological basis of metabolism related disorders
LS4_6 Cancer and its biological basis
LS4_7 Cardiovascular diseases
LS4_8 Non-communicable diseases (except for neural/psychiatric, immunity-related, metabolismrelated disorders, cancer and cardiovascular diseases)
LS5 Neurosciences and neural disorders
LS5_1 Neuroanatomy and neurosurgery
LS5_2 Neurophysiology
LS5_3 Neurochemistry and neuropharmacology
LS5_4 Sensory systems (e.g. visual system, auditory system)
LS5_5 Mechanisms of pain
LS5_6 Developmental neurobiology
LS5_7 Cognition (e.g. learning, memory, emotions, speech)
LS5_8 Behavioral neuroscience (e.g. sleep, consciousness, handedness)
LS5_9 Systems neuroscience
LS5_10 Neuroimaging and computational neuroscience
LS5_11 Neurological disorders (e.g. Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease)
LS5_12 Psychiatric disorders (e.g. schizophrenia, autism, Tourette's syndrome, obsessivecompulsive disorder, depression, bipolar disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
LS6 Immunity and infection
LS6_1 Innate immunity
LS6_2 Adaptive immunity
LS6_3 Phagocytosis and cellular immunity
LS6_4 Immunosignalling
LS6_5 Immunological memory and tolerance
LS6_6 Immunogenetics
LS6_7 Microbiology
LS6_8 Virology
LS6_9 Bacteriology
LS6_10 Parasitology
LS6_11 Prevention and treatment of infection by pathogens (e.g. vaccination, antibiotics, fungicide)
LS6_12 Biological basis of immunity related disorders
LS6_13 Veterinary medicine
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LS7 Diagnostic tools, therapies and public health
LS7_1 Medical engineering and technology
LS7_2 Diagnostic tools (e.g. genetic, imaging)
LS7_3 Pharmacology, pharmacogenomics, drug discovery and design, drug therapy
LS7_4 Analgesia
LS7_5 Toxicology
LS7_6 Gene therapy, stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine
LS7_7 Surgery
LS7_8 Radiation therapy
LS7_9 Health services, health care research
LS7_10 Public health and epidemiology
LS7_11 Environment and health risks including radiation
LS7_12 Occupational medicine
LS7_13 Medical ethics
LS8 Evolutionary, population and environmental biology
LS8_1 Ecology (theoretical, community, population, microbial, evolutionary ecology)
LS8_2 Population biology, population dynamics, population genetics, plant-animal
nteractions)
LS8_3 Systems eEvolution, biological adaptation, phylogenetics, systematics
LS8_4 Biodiversity, comparative biology
LS8_5 Conservation biology, ecology, genetics
LS8_6 Biogeography
LS8_7 Animal behaviour (behavioural ecology, animal communication)
LS8_8 Environmental and marine biology
LS8_9 Environmental toxicology
LS8_10 Prokaryotic biology
LS8_11 Symbiosis
LS9 Applied life sciences and biotechnology
LS9_1 Genetic engineering, transgenic organisms, recombinant proteins, biosensors
LS9_2 Synthetic biology and new bio-engineering concepts
LS9_3 Agriculture related to animal husbandry, dairying, livestock raising
LS9_4 Aquaculture, fisheries
LS9_5 Agriculture related to crop production, soil biology and cultivation, applied plant biology)
LS9_6 Food sciences
LS9_7 Forestry, biomass production (e.g. for biofuels)
LS9_8 Environmental biotechnology, bioremediation, biodegradation
LS9_9 Biotechnology, bioreactors, applied microbiology
LS9_10 Biomimetics
LS9_11 Biohazards, biological containment, biosafety, biosecurity
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