Bursaries for exchange training visits are offered to PhD students, junior scientists (≤ 4 years after doctoral exam) and staff allocated to EuroFIR to achieve and increase integration activities linked to food composition research and food information within EuroFIR, or to complete tasks of work packages. The main objective is exchange of specific knowledge, models, tools or facilities within the EuroFIR partnership.

From 2007 onwards, similar training grants are also available to PhD students and postdoctoral/other staff employed at institutions working in the area of food composition research in any European country and in the following target countries for specific measures in support of international cooperation: the Western Balkan countries, Russia and the other new independent states, Mediterranean partner countries, South Africa, China and India. The aim of these training activities is to support food composition research in order to establish future on-line food databases.

Applications can be sent in at any time. The financial contribution for these types of grants will be allocated after approval by a EuroFIR review panel and according to expected deliverables to the network. Consideration of EC guidelines regarding gender equality and EuroFIR priorities will also be taken into account.

Examples of possible training activities include:

• Acquisition of new skills (e.g. analytical skills, quality assurance)
• Use of advanced equipment not available at a candidate’s own laboratory
• Joint analyses of samples in a standardized way
• Applying data sets to specific statistical or nutrient database tools
• Establishment of an on-line version of an existing nutrient database
• Formulation of standards for joint research and quality assessment
• Design of joint protocols for new integrated research activities

For further information regarding EuroFIR training activities and exchange grants please see the More Information section at the bottom of this page and use the on-line application form situated in the left hand menu bar. In case of any queries regarding training and grants please contact Cornelia Witthöft (Cornelia.Witthoft@lmv.slu.se).