SETAC Europe is calling for nominations for the Return to Science Fellowship.

This new fellowship, which comprises a grant of 4000 Euros and other benefits, was initiated in 2009 by Lorraine Maltby (winner of the SETAC Europe Environmental Education Award 2009) during the opening ceremony of the SETAC Europe Annual Meeting in 2009.

For this Fellowship, SETAC Europe seeks highly qualified and talented scientists or engineers (female or male) in the field of environmental sciences who wish to return to a career in science after a professional break of one year or more due to either family commitments (e.g., caring for disabled, infirm or vulnerable family members, child birth or care, elderly care) or a period of illness. The award recipient should be based in a geographical area administered by SETAC Europe (i.e., Europe and Africa).

To apply for this award, please submit the following documents to the SETAC Europe office before 31 December 2011:

• a full CV
• letter(s) of recommendation or support, highlighting the track record and development potential of the applicant
• an e-photograph
• a publication list or other supporting documents
• an outline of the applicant’s aspirations and potential for progression in her or his scientific or engineering discipline (i.e., objectives and outputs)
• what, if any, other support, financial or otherwise, is available (e.g., from existing employment where relevant) and what use has or will be been made of it
• a strong case outlining what the fellowship grant would be used for.

A report must be sent to SETAC Europe one year after the grant has been given.