young researchers waiting for the european research space

Abstract

In this article, I discuss some of the thoughts and experiences I have had over the past decade both through my work at the ZA-EUROLAB¹ and as a former Erasmus free mover student. The first idea I introduce concerns the necessary prerequisite for the enhancement of mobility in Europe: the harmonisation of qualifications. With the imminent entrance of the East European states into the EU this seems an increasingly pressing issue. Second, I address the need for interdisciplinary research in the social sciences. Third, I discuss the importance of interational vertical and horizontal networks. Finally, I highlight the role that institutions such as the ZA-EUROLAB have in addressing some of these issues. However, before turning to these topics, I would like briefly to discuss why research mobility in the early stages of one's career is so important for later mobility.