The latest Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) and Citizens, as part of Horizon Europe, have received a lot of attention across the continent, with 241 proposals submitted before the October 22 deadline
The 2025 MSCA and Citizens call will fund initiatives that bring science closer to the public through the European Researchers’ Night and Researchers at School activities, planned for 2026-2027.
The 2025 MSCA and Citizens call, managed by the European Research Executive Agency (REA), attracted applications from coordinators in 42 countries, demonstrating broad and growing interest in science outreach and engagement across Europe and associated countries.
Türkiye leads in submissions
A total of 241 proposals were received, with Türkiye emerging as the leading contributor with 36 submissions. Italy followed it with 26, Spain and Romania with 15 each, and Germany with 13 proposals. Other countries across Europe also submitted projects, highlighting the shared enthusiasm for connecting science with society.
This diversity reflects the expanding participation in EU-funded initiatives that aim to make research accessible to all citizens.
€16.3 million will support more than 45 projects
The 2025 MSCA and Citizens call will distribute €16.3 million to support over 45 projects across Europe. These projects will organise two successive editions of the European Researchers’ Night and Researchers at Schools activities, taking place throughout 2026 and 2027.
Both initiatives are essential to the European Commission’s goal of promoting science communication and fostering a deeper understanding of research among the public, particularly young people.
The European Researchers’ Night is the largest public science event in Europe, held every year on the last Friday of September. It offers people of all ages a chance to discover the world of research through exhibitions, hands-on experiments, interactive shows, simulations, games, and competitions. Each year, the event attracts more than 1.5 million visitors, giving them a firsthand look at how research impacts their everyday lives.
The Researchers at Schools programme promotes continuous engagement between researchers and pupils in primary and secondary education. By organising classroom visits, workshops, and collaborative projects, it encourages students to explore science and consider future careers in research.
Inspiring the next generation
The aim of the MSCA and Citizens call is to foster dialogue between researchers and society, show the role of research in economic and social progress, and spark curiosity among young people about scientific careers.
Selected projects are encouraged to be inclusive and accessible, ensuring that people from all backgrounds can engage with science. Many proposals are expected to involve partnerships with schools and educational institutions, strengthening both formal and informal science education.
The evaluation process will run from October 2025 to February 2026 and will involve REA staff and external independent experts. Applicants will be notified in February 2026, with detailed evaluation results made available through the Funding and Tenders Opportunities Portal.
Following this, successful projects are expected to sign grant agreements between March and April 2026, paving the way for their official launch in April 2026.
