5. Mobility schemes for researchers should be far more extended within the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Programme. The funding of research networks and fellowships should be continuously bottom-up organised in conjunction with the free choice of the thematic area. Particularly, the promotion of younger researchers shortly after obtaining their PhD, of post-docs and of experienced visiting scientists should be expanded. The Marie Skłodowska-Curie Programme should, in addition, help to substantially increase the number of female scientists in Horizon 2020. The recruitment of scientists - fellowships and visitors - from third countries should be significantly increased. At the same time, the funding period for EU fellowships should include an option for the extension of the funding period from two to up to four years.

6. The MPG supports the intention of the EU institutions to develop excellent research in all regions of Europe (Twinning/Teaming Excellence). This desire should be managed via a competitive call for proposals in Horizon 2020 complementary to the use of Structural Funds. European regions should be able to submit jointly with a prominent research organisation matched scientific concepts.  International Max Planck Centers and Institutes or other comparable instruments of international cooperation undertaken by other European organisations could serve as a model.

7. The proposed cost model allowing the reimbursement of 100 percent of direct project costs and 20 percent of overheads (the ERC cost model) helps to simplify the management of EU projects. Nevertheless, the MPG is in favour of exceptions from the proposed cost model that are aimed at providing adequate reimbursement of project costs. The full cost model of Framework Programme 7 might be one example.