The Work Programme makes a distinction between Early-stage and Experienced researchers, on the basis of their experience in research:

Early-stage researchers are defined as researchers in the first 4 years (fulltime equivalent) of their research activity, including the period of research training. The reference period to qualify for an early stage training activity:

• is counted from the diploma giving access to doctoral studies (the degree must entitle the holder to embark on doctoral studies, without having to acquire any further qualifications) in the country in which the diploma was obtained,
• covers the first 4 years of experience in research or the period until a doctoral degree is obtained, whichever is shorter.

Persons who have obtained a doctorate are ineligible for the early stage actions, independently of the time taken to acquire it. (Work Programme section 2.5.3)

Experienced researchers are defined as i) researchers having at least 4 years of research experience (full-time equivalent) since gaining a university diploma giving them access to doctoral studies (the degree must entitle the holder to embark on doctoral studies, without having to acquire any further qualifications), in the country in which the degree/diploma was obtained or ii) researchers already in possession of a doctoral degree, independently of the time taken to acquire it. (Work Programme section 2.5.3)

It is important to note that the reference deadline for application of the eligibility rules is the time of the selection of the researcher by the organiser(s):

For host driven actions, the reference deadline for eligibility is the selection of the eligible researcher by the host organisation in the framework of this action.(Work Programme section 2.5.3 )

Experience criteria for Series of Events (SCF)

On the basis of the specific eligibility criteria for researchers in a Marie Curie Series of Events, eligible researchers for SCF can be divided into 3 groups according to their level of experience:

This action will primarily be directed at early stage researchers. More experienced researchers will also be able to benefit from this action where the possibilities offered in the contract are not used for early stage researchers. Researchers with more than 10 years of research experience (full-time equivalent), counting from the time the degree/diploma was obtained giving access to embark on a doctorate in the country where it was awarded, will not be eligible for support, except in the case of researchers who are nationals of Member States, or Associated States active outside these states at the time of an event: these researchers shall be eligible, so that they may establish or strengthen links with the European research community (contact building effect for the transfer of knowledge) Work Programme section 2.3.1.4

Thus, the 3 groups of eligible researchers are:

• Group 1 Early Stage Researchers;
• Group 2 Experienced Researchers with up to 10 years of experience;
• Group 3 Experienced Researchers with more than 10 years of experience, who are nationals of Member States or Associated States and active outside these states at the time of the event (for contact-building effect).

Selection priorities

It should be stressed that the organiser(s) should give priority to Early-stage researchers when selecting the eligible researchers to attend an event.