RESEARCH : LAST CALL FOR PROPOSALS UNDER FP7.

• Position: Seventh framework programme for research and development

The European Commission issued, on 9 July, its final call for proposals under the Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Development (FP7). The budget totals 8.1 billion and will essentially finance FP7 priority themes, such as human health, environmental protection and challenges resulting from growing urbanisation and waste management. "Knowledge is the currency of the global economy. If Europe wants to continue to compete in the 21st century, we must support research and innovation that will generate growth and jobs. The high level of competition for EU funding makes sure that taxpayers' money goes to the best projects," commented Research Commissioner Maire Geoghegan-Quinn, who presented the proposal to the press.

Some 4.8 billion will go to thematic research priorities. A total of 1.2 billion is earmarked for industrial innovation through close-to-market activities, such as pilot projects, demonstration projects, standardisation and technology transfer. Priority will be given to projects presented by SMEs. Around 2.7 billion will be used to strengthen networking and boost the quality of researchers in Europe, primarily through two instruments: Marie Curie actions for research training and mobility (962 million) and the European Research Council (ERC), which offers individual grants for fundamental research (1.75 billion).

CHAIRS OF EXCELLENCE

The proposal includes an...