This is not just a minor clarification: the Managing Authority has shed new light on the definition of the RCO06 indicator, and the long-awaited Excel template for the FTE declaration has finally become available. From now on, filling it out cannot be taken lightly – the final report cannot even be submitted without it.
And here comes the twist: while the template itself is not complicated, the logic behind it can easily be misleading. A single misinterpreted concept or an overlooked detail, and the entire indicator reporting can fall apart.
What exactly does RCO06 measure?
RCO06 is about how many researchers were actually employed in the project by the beneficiary. Not the organization’s total research staff, not the “on paper” names, but those who truly used the research facility or the equipment purchased from the grant. This is the point where support staff or administrators drop off the list – only genuine researchers make it here.
And who qualifies as a researcher? The rule is clear, but in practice not always obvious: an MSc/MA degree is required, but if the project involves experimental development, a BSc/BA degree is also acceptable. The key is that during the 12-month period under review, the person was employed in a relevant position and worked for the project within the organization.
Part-time? Yes, but…
Part-time employment is not a disqualifier, but the contribution must be calculated proportionally. If someone worked half-time on the project, the template will reflect them as 0.5 FTE. And here lies one of the sensitive issues in grant practice: if the same researcher is allocated to multiple projects, the Managing Authority may request a detailed statement showing exactly what share of their employment was dedicated to each project.
What about new researchers?
This is a classic trap. Newly hired researchers should not be reported under RCO06, but under RCR102, which measures the creation of new research positions. RCO06 therefore applies exclusively to staff employed at the start of the project, while new hires only appear later, in the sustainability report.
What must be attached?
The template alone is not enough; each listed researcher must be supported by documentation. Proof of qualifications, employment contracts or appointment letters, and job descriptions – all of these must clearly show the link to the project: project code, hours allocated, place of work, and description of research tasks. Without this, even the most meticulously filled Excel template will fall short.
Why does this matter?
Because the final report is not just a box-ticking exercise. The value of RCO06 directly influences the success of the project, and ultimately, the final settlement of the grant. An incorrectly completed template could even result in repayment of the funding.
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