The return phase of the Global Fellowships is a cornerstone of our institutional strategy. This mechanism allows researchers to train at the world’s most advanced research centres, acquiring international methodologies and networks, before "re-importing" this vital know-how into UniPa’s departments. This process enriches our scientific ecosystem and bolsters the global competitiveness of our University.

For European Fellowships, the University of Palermo aims to consolidate its position as a hub of excellence through three strategic directions:

• Mediterranean Basin and North Africa: Palermo serves as a natural "Gateway to Europe" for North African scholars seeking world-class institutions and a stimulating scientific environment for their professional growth.
• The East and Asia: There is a growing interest from Asian researchers in European academic institutions; UniPa offers state-of-the-art infrastructure and a unique geographical and cultural position, fostering high-level scientific exchange.
• Europe and the West (Brain Gain): A priority objective for the University is to attract talent currently operating in other European and Western contexts. This action specifically targets the return of Italian researchers presently abroad, offering them the opportunity to transfer international expertise back to their homeland while enriching UniPa's research landscape.

It is essential to clarify a frequently misunderstood technical point:

• PhD Limit: Candidates must have a maximum of 8 years of full-time research experience from the date of their doctoral degree.
• Career Break Exemptions: This limit is flexible. Periods spent outside of research (e.g., working in the private sector, public administration, or teaching), as well as maternity/paternity leave or long-term illness, are not counted towards the 8-year limit. This allows the University to recover talented scholars with non-linear professional paths.

MSCA-PF funding covers the full cost of research and mobility:

• Stipend and Mobility: Competitive monthly allowances and contributions for family relocation.
• Research Costs: Funds for equipment, conferences, publications, and technical training.
• Overheads: A dedicated institutional quota for administrative and logistical management, making these fellowships a significant resource for the University.

Researchers who choose Palermo will be mentored by supervisors of international standing. The University provides:

• State-of-the-art laboratories and advanced technologies.
• Virtual & Digital Studies: Institutional leadership in the application of virtual reality, augmented reality, and digital technologies across various fields, from cultural heritage conservation to scientific modelling.

Palermo positions itself as a globally prestigious Host Institution, thanks to its cutting-edge research sectors which represent a strong draw for international researchers.

UniPa offers comprehensive guidance throughout the MSCA-PF application process, including support for proposal preparation and administrative management to foster a stimulating and inclusive environment.

A crucial career advantage is guaranteed by Ministerial Decree (D.M.) n. 919 of 22/07/2022.

Winners of MSCA Global Fellowships are eligible for a direct call (chiamata diretta) as Tenure Track Researchers. This transforms the fellowship into a concrete bridge toward a permanent position, ensuring stability for researchers and allowing UniPa to permanently acquire internationally experienced talent.

Candidacy for an MSCA Fellowship at UniPa follows three key phases:

1. Identify a Supervisor: Find a faculty member within UniPa departments whose research aligns with the project.
2. Obtain Approval: Formally define the proposal once the project structure and training activities are agreed upon with the supervisor.
3. Administrative Support: Contact the Research and Innovation Office (Referents: Silvana Di Bono silvana.dibono@unipa.it – Sara Paolazzo sara.paolazzo@unipa.it) for technical assistance regarding submission, eligibility, and bureaucracy.