Call for Applications 2026
COST Action CA24150 – Values in Turbulent Times (VISTA)
This call invites applications for a Short-Term Scientific Mission (STSM) under COST Action CA24150 – “Values in Turbulent Times: Navigating Social Changes and Challenges (VISTA).” The mission aims to support scientific mobility and strengthen international research collaboration on core EU values.
Working Group 3 (WG3) focuses on analyzing the evolution and support of core EU values across Europe, including how these values are defined, interpreted, and contested in response to ongoing political, economic, and social transformations. In particular, WG3 aims to investigate patterns of support for EU core values and contribute to a better understanding of their role in shaping European cohesion and identity.
The STSM will contribute directly to WG3 deliverables by supporting the review and analysis of EU documents and related sources concerning EU core values.
Submission Deadline: June 7, 2026
Eligibility
- Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Doctoral candidates, postdoctoral researchers, or experienced researchers.
- Demonstrated expertise in EU studies, law, political science, or related disciplines.
- Compliance with COST STSM rules.
- Proven ability to analyze legal and policy documents relevant to the mission.
Duration of the Stay
- Duration: 3 weeks to 2 months
- Location: Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan (Italy)
- The mission must be completed no later than September 15, 2026.
Objectives of the Mission
- Conduct a systematic review of CJEU case law related to core EU values.
- Analyze how EU values are defined, interpreted, and evolving.
- Carry out a critical literature review.
- Develop an analytical framework accessible to interdisciplinary audiences.
Expected Deliverables
- Comprehensive report (20–30 pages)
- Synthesis report for non-legal audiences (approximately 10 pages)
- Policy-oriented summary (2–3 pages)
Funding
- Contribution toward travel, accommodation, and subsistence expenses.
- Funding will be provided in accordance with COST rules.
Selection Criteria
- Relevance to WG3 objectives (30%)
- Scientific quality and originality (30%)
- Feasibility of the work plan (15%)
- Collaboration value (10%)
- Impact and dissemination potential (15%)
Application Documents
- Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Motivation letter (maximum 1 page)
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 2 pages)
- Work plan (maximum 2 pages)
- Host collaboration statement
- Budget estimate
Submit all documents as a single PDF file via: https://e-services.cost.eu/activity/grants
Please select: “STSM Application – WG3 Review of EU Documents on Values”
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