The Ocean Floor

A. Questions regarding content

What is a Synthesis Working Group (SWG)?

SWGs are small, outcome-oriented teams that work collaboratively on data-, model-based or conceptual synthesis projects aligned with the objectives of the Cluster The Ocean Floor – Earth’s Uncharted Interface.

Do I need prior synthesis experience or advanced coding skills?

No. Prior synthesis or programming experience is not required. All selected SWGs receive a dedicated training module and hands-on support, including 1:1 assistance from the SYNTHESIS HUB and Cluster Data Stewards throughout the project.

What kinds of research questions are eligible?

A broad range of questions is welcome. SWGs may focus on

• data-driven meta-analyses,

• integration of model outputs with quantitative analyses, or
• conceptual synthesis where data are heterogeneous or limited.
  Synthesis across different data types or models is explicitly encouraged.

Are there restrictions regarding data types or disciplines?

No. There are no restrictions to specific data types, disciplines or methods, as long as the proposed synthesis aligns with the Cluster’s objectives and research scope.

How large can an SWG be?

SWGs consist of small teams with fewer than 20 participants.

Who can apply?

Each application must include

• at least one Cluster member, and
• one or more external (inter)national participants.
  The formal submission must be carried out by a Cluster member.

What are the evaluation criteria?

Applications are evaluated based on:

1. Fit to the objectives and core topics of Cluster Phase II
2. Scientific quality and expected outcome
3. Diversity of the team and international networking
4. Feasibility, including data availability

Criteria (1) and (2) are assessed by the Executive Board; (3) and (4) are evaluated based on team composition and the data availability statement.

How long does an SWG run?

SWGs typically run for approximately one year.

What support do selected SWGs receive?

Selected SWGs receive

• funding for three meetings,
• travel and accommodation support for external participants,
• technical and methodological support from Cluster Data Stewards,

• organizational support from the Management Office and HWK,
• access to the Cluster training module.

Is there a fixed budget per SWG?

No fixed budget is defined. For planning purposes, an estimated budget of ~€20,000 per meeting is assumed, depending on group composition and travel needs (European vs. non-European participants).

B. Submission & Process

How do I submit an application?

The application form is provided as a fillable PDF on the Cluster website.

Applicants complete the form electronically and submit it by email, together with all required documents.

Do I need to log in to download or submit the form?

No. The form can be downloaded without logging in.

Who checks the applications?

All submissions undergo a formal review by the Management Office upon receipt.

Only formally complete applications are forwarded to the Committee for evaluation.

Will I receive a confirmation of receipt?

Yes. Applicants receive an email confirmation after submission.

C. Technical Questions

Which PDF software should I use?

The form is optimized for common PDF viewers (e.g. Adobe Acrobat Reader, Tungsten Power PDF, NitroPDF). Other viewers may work but are not guaranteed to fully support all features.

Can I save the form and continue later?

Yes. The PDF can be saved locally and edited at any time before submission.

Are mandatory fields clearly marked?

Yes. Mandatory fields are marked with an asterisk (*).

What should I do if I experience technical problems with the form?

Please contact the Management Office at [Bitte aktivieren Sie Javascript] and briefly describe the issue (including your PDF viewer and operating system, if possible).