In the content of WP3, the study visit, held from November 13th to 17th at ETH Zurich and Zurich University, was designed to facilitate peer-to-peer learning and foster collaboration with members of the Swiss EURAXESS team. This meticulously structured event comprised multiple sessions aimed at equipping the Tunisian EURAXESS team members with a comprehensive understanding of the functioning of EURAXESS Switzerland.
Throughout the sessions, participants explored various aspects of EURAXESS Switzerland. It involved a detailed exploration of its offices, including the BHO Berne office, and an examination of functions and structures within the Euraxess Centers of Zurich and Geneva. The study visit also highlighted affiliated organizations, primarily with the EU Grants Access offices offering insights into the broader network supporting mobile researchers. During this visit, Tunisian Euraxess team members had the opportunity to have a better learning about the EU Grants Access Office, the main host of this training, as a Euraxess Center and as a supporting structure within the Horizon Europe programme.
Discussions covered a diverse range of topics crucial to the support system provided for incoming researchers. Noteworthy highlights included:
- Career development primarily involves awarding grants and recognition to early career researchers, complemented by a diverse array of courses focusing on transferable skills. The university further fosters career development through individual counseling, coaching, and networking programs. Another avenue for supporting career growth is the REFLEX project, which aims to address challenges by designing an intelligent career development framework
- Dual career considerations and assistance while relocating to Zurich: Considerable support is extended for dual career considerations and the relocation process to Zurich. This assistance encompasses managing expectations and defining realistic timelines for individuals moving, extending to their entire families. The comprehensive aid covers various aspects, including visa permits, education and childcare, housing, moving logistics, Swiss culture, bank accounts, insurance, healthcare, and taxation. Notably, special emphasis is placed on the professional integration of partners of ETH-Professors.
- Providing information and advice on European research programmes for researchers and companies in the Zurich region, with a specific support tailored for ETH/UZH researchers. This includes guidance on international programmes, ensuring compliance assurance and management responsibilities for UZH/ETH-coordinated projects upon request.