Preparation stages towards the submission of an application for an ERS fellowship and some key points to address the challenges
| Identification | Preparation | Application | |
| Tasks | • Identify host institution • Establish contact • Plan a short visit at the host institution, if possible | • Frame the project and responsibilities with your host and the research group • Focus on a realistic time plan (especially concerning ethical approval and the amount of work to be done during the fellowship) | • Double check all documents, signatures, and uploads • Hit “submit”! • Prepare for the interview stage |
| Key points | • Plan early • Network with staff at the host lab (postdocs, PhD students, technicians) • Find funding for a short-term visit | • Let your application rest for some days and then revise it, this gives you a fresh perspective • Ask peers and patients to review your application • Network with previous fellowship recipients | • Do not forget to celebrate your submission • Conduct several interview training sessions with peers, the host, and your home institution |