© Sven Menschel
According to NWO, there are many refugee scientists in the Netherlands. It is very difficult for them to continue their scientific career ‘because they encounter obstacles such as a language barrier, a different working culture or limited scope to build a network.’
Aid
NWO therefore wants to lend them a hand. Researchers with a refugee status can fill in an interest form, NWO announced last week. To apply for a grant, refugees must have a master’s degree or PhD and have a residence permit in the Netherlands.
The details of the applicants are subsequently shared with the interested universities and institutes to help them find suitable candidates for their research projects.
Opportunity
If the application is successful, the refugee scientists will receive a one-year appointment within a Dutch research project. This will give them the opportunity to connect with current research projects and build a network.
‘These academics will also enrich Dutch science and society with the knowledge and expertise they contribute’, NWO expects. The funds should suffice to help between eight and fifteen refugees find a position.
The Refugees in Science programme is a pilot project. NWO is working together with the Young Academy, KNAW and the Foundation for Refugee Students (UAF).
Wageningen has joined UAF’s Scholars at Risk programme as of last year, opening positions for refugee researchers in Wageningen chair groups.
Additional reading (in Dutch):
‘Mijn kennis ondermijnt het systeem, vinden ze’