European Commission

Taking Control Of Your Career

Marie Curie fellows enjoy good salaries and working conditions, career development opportunities and work-life balance but it's up to you to make sure you receive these. Here's how.

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1. Before you Start

Download and read the FP6 contract or FP7 grant agreement between the Commission and your Institute, especially Annex III which sets out the rules for the scheme you are recruited under
Find out if permits are required for the country you will work in: check the regulations for each country on Euraxess
Download and read The European Charter for Researchers and The Code of Conduct for the Recruitment of Researchers

2. Your Contract

Most fellows are entitled to full employment contracts with pension rights and full social security:

Make yourself aware of your rights including your salary amount and travel and career exploratory allowances (link to pdf document: Salary calculation - to be provided soon) – make sure they are clearly mentioned in your contract
Be aware that by accepting certain conditions you may be waiving your fundamental rights such as proper health coverage; pension contributions; maternity leave and unemployment benefits
If you are unsure that you have the right salary or contract conditions speak with your supervisor or someone in the institute; if you are still not satisfied that you have your entitlements talk to your National Contact Point (for NCP function select "Mobility")
Make sure you read your contract carefully – don't sign blind

3. Career Development

You can expect more from the Marie Curie Actions than your salary. Funding is provided for your career development in many ways:

Complementary training in skills such as research management, entrepreneurship, languages and IPR
Attendance at conferences, workshops etc: your institution has been given the money for you to go as part of the funding package
For many fellows this is detailed in a Career Development Plan which you agree with your supervisor when you start work

4. After you finish

Complete the questionnaires – we need your feedback to make sure the Actions are always evolving to meet the needs of researchers
Make sure your supervisor has your contact details for 5 years after your fellowship ends

You can also join the Marie Curie Fellows Association It's your obligation to insist upon your rights.

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