Scientists at Risk (SAR)
At BS4S, we are committed to creating equal opportunities for all researchers, including those at risk.
By researchers at risk, we understand researchers, scholars, and scientists at any stage of their careers who face threats to their lives, freedom, or academic careers. This also includes individuals who have been forced, or are at risk of being forced, to flee their home country because of such threats. Although some researchers at risk hold recognised refugee or asylum status, or similar forms of protection, many others supported by NGOs specialising in scholar protection fall outside the formal refugee process. Instead, they may be seeking or holding temporary visas or work permits, often linked to visiting research or scholar positions at European or international universities.
To make the programme more accessible, we have prepared this dedicated section with practical, step-by-step guidance for SARs.
If you believe that you qualify as an at-risk applicant and are therefore entitled to an adjusted recruitment procedure, before applying, you must notify us explaining the underlying reasons and, if possible, provide supporting documentation. Such a request should be sent to the BS4S Project Manager (atadrzak|ichf.edu.pl| |atadrzak|ichf.edu.pl) at least 2 weeks before the Call deadline. The PM will contact you to agree on the necessary precautionary measures to ensure the application process is safe for you. The decision to apply adjustments to the recruitment procedure rests solely with the Project Manager. The recruitment procedures may be adjusted as follows:
- You can take part in the recruitment process through remote interviews.
- We will recognise foreign diplomas/qualifications. At the application stage, you may submit documents in English without a notarised translation.
- We may discuss the course of the enrolment procedure with you to identify any elements (e.g. experts involved or specific steps) that could put you at risk, and adjust the process to eliminate them whenever possible.
- Apply through the online application module on the BS4S webpage.
- Follow the guidelines in the application form.
- You may ask for clarification at any stage – we are here to support you.
- We will provide support with visa and residence permits, as well as relocation formalities.
- Guidance will be available to help you with housing, healthcare, and everyday needs.
- We may offer a relocation allowance to cover initial travel and settlement costs, if necessary.
- You will be employed on a 36-month full-time contract, with all entitlements (salary, leave, healthcare, pension).
- You and your family will have access to public and private healthcare.
- Confidential counselling and wellbeing services will be available if needed.
- Language training available.
- Flexible work arrangements (remote/hybrid) may be offered in justified cases.
- The Project Manager will remain your primary point of contact for all questions or concerns.
o seek additional assistance, we encourage you to apply to international initiatives that support scientists at risk, such as: