Exploring the barriers and facilitators to the success of MSCA projects: a focus group-based study

MSCA fellows face a range of challenges that can significantly influence their career development and mobility. Among the most frequently reported are financial constraints, as fellowship stipends may not fully cover living costs, housing, and family-related obligations, including childcare (European Commission, 2017). Their experiences are further influenced by the considerable variability in institutional support across host organizations, including access to housing assistance or other forms of local financial and logistical support, which can help alleviate some pressures associated with relocation, cost of living, and family obligations, but do not always fully resolve these challenges. While most fellows consider MSCA funding adequate, a notable minority reports that allowances fall short of essential expenses, particularly in high-cost countries or for those with dependents. These findings underscore the need for holistic support mechanisms that extend beyond mentorship and training, encompassing financial, accommodation, and family-related assistance to ensure equitable participation and sustainable career development. This focus group study, conducted within the IANUS project, aims to better understand the real-world experiences and needs of MSCA beneficiaries and stakeholders. By examining intersectoral collaboration and training gaps, the study aims to uncover barriers and facilitators that affect research quality and career development. This evidence is crucial for designing practical, project-specific interventions that strengthen cooperation between academia and the business sector and enhance the overall impact of MSCA projects within the IANUS framework.