Objective of MSCA and Citizens
The objective of the MSCA and Citizens action is to bring research and researchers closer to the public at large, with a focus notably on families, pupils and students.
It does so through the organisation of the European Researchers’ Night, a research communication and promotion event taking place across EU Member States and Horizon Europe Associated Countries which aims to
- contribute to promoting excellence research projects across Europe and beyond
- increase awareness among the general public of the importance and benefits of research and innovation and showcase its concrete impact on citizens’ daily life
- heighten young people’s interest in science and research careers
Every year on the last Friday of September, the European Researchers’ Night makes science accessible to all through activities which combine education with entertainment, such as exhibitions, hands-on experiments, science shows, games, competitions, quizzes and more.
Since 2022, the European Researchers’ Night also promotes Researchers at Schools activities throughout the year. By bringing top researchers to schools, it will allow teachers and pupils to engage with them on important topics faced by our societies, such as climate change, sustainable development, health or nutrition.
The European Researchers’ Night attracted more than 1.3 million visitors in 2022.
Who can apply?
The European Researchers’ Night can be organised either by one single beneficiary or by several organisations constituting a partnership at regional, national or international level.
Legal entities eligible for EU funding (i.e. for being beneficiaries) are those established in an EU Member State or Horizon Europe Associated Country. The minimum condition is the participation of one legal entity.
Typical profiles of participating organisations include
- research organisations (public/private)
- companies
- public authorities
- science museums
- foundations
- media organisations
What does the funding cover?
The European Researchers’ Night provides funding to cover expenses linked to the organisation of the events that can last up to two days: they can start on Friday and continue the following day. Pre-events, prior to the main event, and related post-events, such as wrap-up meetings or small-scale follow-up events, can also be organised.
Typically the activities are structured around 4 work packages
- awareness campaign
- activities during the NIGHT
- impact assessment and
- management
Researchers at Schools activities, which bring researchers to schools for direct interaction with teachers and pupils, are also included.
Eligible costs will take the form of lump sum contributions.
For the 2023 call, applicants are encouraged to submit proposals covering two successive editions (2024 and 2025) of the European Researchers' Night. They are also encouraged to focus on priorities identified by the Horizon Europe Missions and include activities relating to them in their events.
How to apply
Apply on behalf of an organisation or consortium
Applications to MSCA and Citizens can be submitted at any time from the opening date of the chosen call. The completed proposal, including all annexes, should be submitted by the specified submission deadline of the chosen call.
Applicants can
- find open and forthcoming calls on our page on funding
- find partners and apply through the Funding and Tender Opportunities Portal
All relevant documents are available on the dedicated call page on the Funding and Tender Opportunities Portal, including
- MSCA work programme and general annexes
- guide for applicants
- specific FAQs
- application and evaluation forms
- online manual on how to submit an application
For more information on the application and evaluation process and contact points for further guidance