Deadlines: 31 March, 31 July & 30 November 2025

Through AQUASERV’s Transnational Access programme, researchers from academia (including PhD students) can use state-of-the-art resources and specialised facilities in the fields of sustainable aquaculture, fisheries, ecological restoration and the blue economy (whether focused on sustainability, food security, marine biotechnology, ecosystem health, pollution, or other). There will be three evaluation cycles during 2025.

Services

The European project AQUASERV, funded by Horizon Europe Research Infrastructures programme, is an extensive network comprising six European research infrastructures, spanning over 16 countries and covering every major European sea. AquaServ provides a Catalogue of services, which can be accessed on-site, remotely and virtually.

​Transnational Access provides researchers with the opportunity to access advanced research services across Europe, completely free of charge. These services include:

• On-site access: visit a partner facility in a different country from the country of origin;
• Remote access to data and resources.

Applicants must submit a project proposal that demonstrates innovation and relevance to the services. 

Eligibility

• PhD students, early-career researchers, engineers or research professionals affiliated with a recognized institution.
• The home institution of the main applicant must be located in a different country from the selected access provider. 
• Masters’ students may participate if the project is led by an experienced researcher, but AQUASERV will not cover their travel and subsistence costs. Bachelor students are not eligible.
• If the project is accepted, the candidate must agree to archive the data obtained as Open Access and ensure any related refereed publications are also Open Access.

Funding

All transnational access services are covered for accepted projects, including: 

• Access to specialized research facilities;
• General lab materials and standard consumables;
• Travel, accommodation, and subsistence for up to two users per project.

How to apply

After choosing the services/infrastructures needed, the candidate should get in touch with the manager of the service/infrastructure (not mandatory but highly recommended). Reaching out to an Access Manager at the chosen facility can greatly enhance the project’s quality and chances of acceptance, since Access Managers can provide specific insights on services available, techniques, required consumables, and potential travel support. Taking this step early can streamline your project planning and ensure smooth access to the services you need.

After this step, you can apply through here.

Supporting materials

Additional information may be found here.

Please, do not forget that if you are considering applying, you must follow these guidelines. Get in touch with us (cesam-gesciencia@ua.pt) and we can provide you with specific support.