Description

Many researchers struggle to start a family (broad interpretation including all families and family experiences). This is often exacerbated by mobility. MSCA fellows must navigate additional hurdles, e.g., national legislations, unfavourable (sometimes abusive) rules in host institutions, and discrepancies between host (and secondment) countries. Providing a family-friendly environment and work conditions has several advantages, e.g., attracting female talent and improving mental health in academia.

Our session will trigger a series of initiatives where science diplomacy explores solutions to improve “family life” for MSCA fellows, irrespective of the geolocation. Insights from this session will be leveraged and extended in collaboration with other MCAA Chapters and WGs to

 - Report current conditions in different host countries

 - Communicate and discuss findings with policy/decision-makers at country/EU level

 - Produce recommendations for MCSA.

 - Empower researchers and academics.

***For the purposes of the session your replies and comments will remain anonymous***