The IRCHSS in partnership with NORFACE launch Pilot Programme

This competion which ran in 2006 was open to researchers from research institutions in the NORFACE partner countries. The pilot programme invited outline proposals from researchers who wish to engage in cross-border collaboration on a theme of importance to Europe. The NORFACE pilot Research Programme funds ten transnational projects relating to the specified theme, the maximum sum available per project is €500.000 for a maximum period of three years.

Pilot proposals are funded following Theme:

Re-emergence of Religion as a Social Force in Europe?

For half a century, the ‘secularisation thesis‘ and the dichotomy between science and values have led the social sciences to avoid or downplay the study of religion and faith in the contemporary world. The time is now ripe for the social sciences to re-engage with this field of study. Light needs to be shed on aspects of motivation and behaviour becoming ever more significant in our communities and in world affairs. New theories and methods are needed to describe and explain the sometimes surprising ways in which religion and faith are re-emerging. A new generation of scholars must be developed, able to grapple with issues of belief, spirituality, fundamentalism, religiosity, identity, selflessness and intolerance, in both mainstream and fringe contexts.

Scientific Objectives

The general scientific objectives of the pilot programme are:

•To support excellent research in NORFACE partner countries.

•To promote and support cooperation between researchers from NORFACE partner countries, especially researchers early in their careers.

•To coordinate scattered capacities funded through the NORFACE Partner Agencies in a chosen field of research.

•To build on an area where the NORFACE countries working together have an opportunity to contribute to the development of the social sciences globally.

•To increase the visibility of European social science research on a specified theme.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants were researchers from universities or research institutions in the NORFACE partner countries with a track record of excellence. Applications must as a minimum have participation of researchers from at least three NORFACE partner countries, with a preference for participants from more partners.

Successful Project Details Available Here

Application

The deadline for receipt of applications (outline proposals) was 31 March 2006.

Further details are available via the NORFACE website at www.norface.org

Or contact IRCHSS at info@irchss.ie

Application Form / Call Text / Programme Specification