2005

Europe increasingly popular location for US biotech companies

While the US has historically been a dominant player in the field of biotechnology research, innovation and commercialisation, Europe is striving towards new levels of achievement, and succeeding.

Germany to lead tsunami warning system

In the wake of the 26 December earthquake and resulting tsunamis in the Indian Ocean, Germany has announced it that it will lead international efforts in setting up an early warning system for tsunamis.

Germany World Leader in Solar Power Systems

Last year Germany edged ahead of other leading countries in terms of the volume of new solar power systems installed. The German solar industry association reported that solar panel manufacturers doubled their production capacity and created 5,000 jobs in 2004.

Hansen Family Prize awarded for the third time - Neurobiologist Dr. Rüdiger Klein receives EUR 50,000

At a ceremony held at the Bayer Communication Center in Leverkusen on January 12, 2005, neurobiologist Dr. Rüdiger Klein (46) from Munich, Germany, was awarded the Hansen Family Prize for his special contribution to biology and medicine. A director of the Max Planck Institute in Martinsried, Dr. Klein was honored for his research into the function of nerve growth factors and their intracellular signal transduction channels. The prize, worth EUR 50,000, is one of the highest accolades for scientists working in the fields of biology and medicine in Germany. 

BASF Venture Capital invests in biotechnology company Advanced BioNutrition Corp.

BASF Venture Capital GmbH is investing in Advanced BioNutrition Corp. (ABN). ABN is an emerging biotechnology company focusing on functional nutrition to prevent disease.

Biotech crops experience second-highest hectarage growth on record

A report published by the ISAAA shows that last year (2004), biotechnology derived crops experienced the second highest hectarage growth since they were first offered to farmers ten years ago. The 2004 global area for biotech crops grew 20% and about 8.25 million farmers in 17 countries planted them. Most of these (90%) are small scale farmers in lesser developed countries.

MEPs look for balance between protecting IPR and ensuring access to medicine

At a hearing on 18 January, the European Parliament's Trade Committee heard assorted views on whether new intellectual property legislation in developing countries is affecting research and access to medicine.

Schröder calls for new culture of science as he kicks off celebrations for anniversary of relativity

As German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder kicked off celebrations for the 100th anniversary of Albert Einstein's theory of relativity and the 50th anniversary of his death, he called for a new culture of science in Germany.

European premiere for global virtual reality conference

The leading international conference on virtual reality will take place in Europe for the first time this year. From March 12 to 16, some 500 scientists and virtual reality experts will meet in Bonn for two days of tutorials followed by the conference.

Gen-Probe Licenses Technology from AdnaGen That May Increase Accuracy of Molecular Diagnostic Tests for Cancer

Gen-Probe (NASDAQ: GPRO) has licensed technology from AdnaGen, a private company based in Germany, that may help increase the accuracy of molecular diagnostic tests to detect prostate and other cancers, help determine the aggressiveness of these malignancies, and monitor responses to therapy.

MorphoSys Acquires Biogenesis Group in U.K. and U.S.A.

Acquisitions Position MorphoSys within Top 5 of European Research Antibody Suppliers

Quick Test for Polluted Environments

The "Biotool" project seeks to use bacterial marker molecules for predictions

European x-ray laser project planned

Nine European countries have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, in which they have agreed to co-operate on preparing the European X-ray laser, XFEL.

University of Hohenheim to Focus on Human Nutrition

“The only way we can counteract diet-related diseases, which have become a massive problem in the Western world, is by supporting the population with preventive measures regarding healthy nutrition and by increasing their awareness in this area." State Councillor Prof. Dr. Konrad Beyreuther gives nutrition research a major role in this incentive.

Fraunhofer USA Transfers Its Metal Foam Technology to Alulight of America

Fraunhofer USA, Inc. has transferred its metal-foam technology to Alulight of America, L.P.

Students Association welcomes changes to the immigration law

There are around 174,000 non-EU students currently matriculated at German universities. The changes in the immigration law, which took effect in January this year, have meant considerable benefits for them.

Waterborne Transport Technology Platform starts work on strategic vision

Major players from Europe's waterborne transport sector gathered in Bremen, Germany, on 25 January to launch a new Technology Platform in the sector and to begin work on developing a common strategic vision of future research needs.

The DFG supports six new research groups

The German Research Foundation (DFG) is going to finance six new research groups over the next three years to the tune of around 8.7 million euros.

Germany to lose jobs in R&D

Germany may lose more jobs in research and development (R&D) industries, as the vast majority of companies do not plan to increase research spending at home before 2008, warns a new survey.

Microsoft unveils new European research initiative

Coinciding with the EU's Information and Media Commissioner's call for increased funding for information technology research, Microsoft has announced the launch of a new initiative to accelerate innovation in science and computing in the EU, and to create a network of elite research centres.

Research alliances with Russia

With the opening of a representation in Moscow, the Helmholtz Association of National Research Centres has now established its third regional office.

Affectis Pharmaceuticals AG Announces Target Validation Collaboration with Mitsubishi Pharma

Affectis Pharmaceuticals AG announced that it has signed a collaboration agreement with Mitsubishi Pharma Corporation for the development of novel therapeutics for the treatment of affective disorders.

Detection of a new blood pressure-increasing hormone

A study group headed by Charité scientists has detected a new hormone that constricts the blood vessels, thus increasing blood pressure.

Germany and Russia upgrade research partnership

The research ministers from Germany and Russia agreed on 7 February to upgrade their countries' bilateral cooperation in the field of science to a strategic partnership. A formal agreement is expected to be signed by May.

Bremen College launches science communication course

Bremen College is launching a new masters course, which aims to combine PR and journalistic skills with scientific ones.

Life sciences group concludes term with list of challenges for the future

The European Group of Life Sciences (EGLS), established in 2000 to advise the Commission on current and future life science technologies, has completed its mandate.

Medicago announces research collaboration with Bayer CropScience

Medicago, Inc. announced that it has entered into a product development agreement with Bayer CropScience L.P. in the field of Plant-Made Pharmaceuticals.

Call for Submissions: Natural Refrigeration Award 2005

eurammon is calling for submissions for the Natural Refrigeration Award 2005, a prize being awarded for the first time for the best academic thesis paper on the subject of natural refrigerants.

The Payoff for Studying Refrigeration Technology

eurammon presents Natural Refrigeration Award for Best Thesis Paper

International report urges pharmaceutical industry to invest more in nanotechnology

While EU governments are making funding available for nanotechnology research, major pharmaceutical companies are investing very little money or human resources in this field, according to a new report.

Welcome to the Land of Heisenberg and MIMOS II

The United States and Germany maintain close relations in the field of research. This is why Germany's leading science organizations are presenting their work and activities at the exhibition of American research – the Annual Meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).

Master of Medical Education launched in Germany

German universities have cooperateed to launch a two-year masters course in medical education.

Germany and Japan intensify cooperation in the field of Life Science

Within the scope of the “German Year in Japan 2005/6” the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) initiates cooperation with three Japanese knowledge clusters.

Helping early stage biotech SMEs to innovate

The European Commission is funding an initiative aimed at minimising the obstacles for young biotechnology firms that wish to participate in the EU's research framework programmes.

EU funds hydrogen research

A new EU project aims to imitate nature to extract renewable energy without harming the environment.

New European body for cancer research

The creation of a new European body, the European Consortium for Research in IORT Studies (ECRIS), to study intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT), was announced on 28 February.

'The Dignity of Creatures’ in the age of genetic technology

Genetic technology is one of the most innovative and yet, at the same time, one of the most hotly debated new technologies.

Tekes proposes FP7 research priority dedicated to industry

Tekes, Finland's technology agency, has called for the introduction of an entirely new thematic priority in the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) for EU research: 'R&D as a tool to renew strong existing industries'.

Karlheinz Schmidt awarded Carl Duisberg Medal

The German Chemical Society has awarded the Carl Duisberg Medal to Dr. Karlheinz Schmidt for his efforts to establish a pan-European research funding network in chemistry. Dr. Schmidt is Head of the Chemistry and Process Engineering Division at the DFG's (German Research Foundation) Head Office in Bonn.

A new German venture capital fund for start-ups

The weak performance of the private venture capital (VC) market in Germany since 2002 has led the German Government to redesign its public VC programmes. The new public VC fund (ERP-Funds) was launched on 1 November 2004.

EU funds project to boost open source efficiency

As part of an EU drive to make European software development more competitive on the global market, the European Commission is providing 2.2 million euro for a project to build new tools for simplifying complex IT projects based on open- source software like Linux.

MEPs deliver ringing endorsement of Commission's revised Lisbon agenda

The European Parliament has adopted a resolution by 514 in favour to 110 against, with 20 abstentions, confirming that the updated Lisbon strategy should be the EU's top priority for the next five years.

Volkswagen Foundation supports “German Innovation Center” in Israel

The Volkswagen Foundation has agreed to support the North Rhine-Westfalia (NRW) Science Center in establishing a “German Innovation Center” in Israel.

Four Million Euros to Support Research on Ageing

„By focusing on research on ageing we intend to explore the biological basis of ageing and create better conditions for healthy ageing. This knowledge will help reduce or even prevent age-related diseases and improve the quality of life of elderly people,” said Minister President Erwin Teufel.

Innovation Contest 2005 Supporting Medical Engineering

Since 1999, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) has organised innovation contests focusing on medical engineering which complement existing research funding programmes. This year’s innovation contest again addresses particular innovative and original research and development concepts in medical engineering.

European Platform of Women Scientists (PLATWOMSCI)

From its location in Brussels the European Platform of Women Scientists seeks to support the work of a whole range of existing national, regional and international networks of women scientists by “networking the networks”.

International accreditation for new courses at Frankfurt College

The Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA) has given its seal of approval to three new courses at Frankfurt’s Technical College.

Parliament committee backs EU visas for third country researchers

The European Parliament's Civil Liberties Committee has given its backing to proposals for a special residence permit for non-EU researchers.

Defensins Neutralize Anthrax Toxin

Max Planck scientists from Berlin, Germany discover a new immunotherapeutic approach against anthrax

Dresden named „City of Science 2006“

Dresden has been named Germany’s „City of Science 2006“ – making it the second time it has won the accolade from the German Science Association.

Mass market for hydrogen transport by 2020, industry figures predict

On the eve of the second general assembly of the European hydrogen and fuel cell technology platform (HFP) in Brussels on 16 March, industry representatives presented the latest innovations in hydrogen powered transportation to decision makers at a 'ride & drive' exhibition.

Young businesses driving research, finds German study

New figures from Germany illustrate the extent of the contribution that new businesses make to research.

New M.A. in Industrial Management

The University of Applied Sciences in Ulm, together with the REFA-Association of Baden Württemberg, has developed a further education combination that will enable a career jump for junior employees in industry.

NRW sets up Europe’s largest cancer register

On 1 May 2005 Europe’s largest cancer register will be launched in North-Rhine Westphalia.

Barroso Commission recognises contribution of biotech crops to European competitiveness

EU Commission orientation debated on GMOs confirms that this Commission will build on the previous Commission's policy by supporting Europe's regulatory and approval process for GM products.

Brain Gain: Recruiting and keeping excellent young scientists

Helmholtz Association establishes 18 new young investigators groups with longer-term career prospects (tenure track option). Eleven group leaders come from renowned foreign institutions.

Europe must invest more in cancer research, finds survey

Europe needs to double the amount it spends on cancer research, concludes a new survey on the way cancer research is funded across the EU.

Advisory Council publishes vision for photovoltaic technology

The Photovoltaic Technology Research Advisory Council (PV-TRAC) has published its vision for photovoltaic (PV) technology, saying that PV could generate four per cent of electricity worldwide by 2030.

MorphoSys AG and Boehringer Ingelheim expand cooperation

Martinsried-based MorphoSys AG and Boehringer Ingelheim have announced the expansion of their existing cooperation involving both research and therapeutic applications.

FP6 project coordinates mobile and wireless research worldwide

The European Commission is financing a project aimed at ensuring that European research on mobile and wireless communication continues to be the motor for the research and development of these systems worldwide.

Improved biomedical education for Ph.D. students

The medical faculty at the University of Ulm has introduced a new postgraduate programme entitled “International Ph.D. Programme in Molecular Medicine”.

Commission puts forward proposal for a Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme

The European Commission has outlined how it intends to boost Europe's competitiveness and innovation through a new programme, to run from 2007 until 2013 with a budget of 4.2126 billion euro.

Junior professorships attract women and homecomers in Germany

The German Ministry of Education and Research has confirmed that the introduction of the 'junior professorship' nationally, intended to create an attractive career path for young scientists, has been a success.

Schröder and Putin sign up to strategic research partnership

German Chancellor Gerhard Schröder and Russian President Vladimir Putin have signed an agreement on a strategic partnership in the field of research and innovation.

Scientific governance at EU level must be improved says Busquin

With the increasing internationalisation of science, it is essential to develop an efficient scientific governance system at EU level in order to enable Europe to take rapid decisions and achieve its aim of becoming the most knowledge-based economy in the world, says Philippe Busquin, former EU Commissioner for Research and President of the Scientific Technology Options Assessment (STOA) of the European Parliament.

New training programme for young scientists

The Helmholtz Association of National Research Centres is expanding its funding programme for young top-rate scientists and researchers. The Association will now annually invite proposals for three Helmholtz Graduate Schools, each of which will be able to receive up to 1.8m euros over a period of six years from the President's Initiative and Networking Fund.

BioM Presents the Munich Biotech Report

The developments of the companies in the Munich Biotechnology cluster, one of the largest and most important in Europe, are an indicator of the health of the industry in the country as a whole. Hence, Bio M has again in 2005 assembled an extensive business report on the developments of the last year, based on research and questionnaires, “The BioTech-Region München – A Cluster in Transition”.

Commission puts forward ten-point plan for simplification in FP7

A staff working document from the European Commission outlines a ten-point simplification plan for facilitating participation in the EU's framework programmes for research

IST Prize 2006 - deadline for entries 12 May

The deadline for applications for the 2006 European Information Society Technologies (IST) Prize is 12 May.

Motor transport in bio-nano systems

Max Planck researchers determine optimal parameters for biomimetic transport systems based on molecular motors

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Commission approves state aid scheme for SMEs using incubators

The European Commission has given its approval to a German plan to support the users of technology centres and incubators with state aid.

Gateways to Europe: German universities open liaison offices in New York

35 German universities and universities of applied science opened liaison offices in the German House in New York.

Eucomed publishes ten recommendations on FP7

Responding to the Commission's proposal on the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) unveiled on 6 April, Eucomed, the European Medical Technology Industry Association, has published ten key recommendations 'to boost medical technology innovation in the European Union'.

EU research – Building Knowledge Europe: The EU’s new Research Framework Programme 2007-2013

On 6 April the European Commission adopted a proposal for a new EU programme for Research. This note sets out the details of the Commission’s proposal, which is now to be debated by the Member States (Council) and European Parliament, before a final Decision is adopted.

Doctors fail to follow life-saving guidelines when treating heart failure, finds study

Heart failure patients who are treated in accordance with established European guidelines recover better than patients who are not, yet many doctors still fail to adhere to the guidelines and prefer to rely on their own impression of what might be best, report two new studies.

Einstein exhibition opened in Bochum

On May 9, 2005 the exhibition "Einstein and the Universe" was opened in Bochum.

EUR 50,000 for German-Polish cooperation in the promotion of young researchers

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) and the Foundation for Polish Science (Fundacja na Rzecz Nauki Polskiej, FNP) have established the first-ever Copernicus Award.

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German research is thriving, says Research Minister

German research is flourishing and the country's businesses are among the most innovative in Europe, says German Research Minister Edelgard Bulmahn.

Information society technologies - fifth call for proposals

The European Commission has published the fifth call for proposals under the 'information society technologies' (IST) priority of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6). This is one of the areas covered by the 'Integrating and strengthening the European Research Area' specific programme.

EU funds new research into tick-transmitted diseases

The European Commission is providing 1.4 million euro over two years to a new Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) project into a severe, yet often insufficiently diagnosed, tick-transmitted disease - Lyme borreliosis.

CHE and Die Zeit publish university ranking 2005

In its 2005 edition the university ranking jointly published by the Center for Higher Education Development (CHE) and the German weekly Die Zeit for the first also covers universities in Austria and Switzerland. It will now be possible to make tri-national comparisons of German, Austrian and Swiss universities, which according to Detlef Müller-Böling, head of the CHE "is an important position of points in view of the international competition for resources, excellent researches and reputation."

EU funding to help establish European nanoscience facility

In order to promote increased collaboration between nanoscience researchers in Europe, the EU is to part-finance the creation of a European Theoretical Spectroscopy Facility (ETSF) along the lines of existing European synchrotron laboratories.

Fraunhofer Institute celebrates opening of the Center Nanoelectronic Technology CNT

The leap from microelectronics to nanoelectronics is a big challenge for the semiconductor industry. At the Fraunhofer Center Nanoelectronic Technology CNT in Dresden science and industry are cooperating in a public-private-partnership to develop new process technologies for nanoelectronics. The ceremonial opening of the CNT with guests from the Federal Government, from the Free State of Saxony as well as members of science and industry took place on May 31st, 2005.

Potocnik advises Germany on addressing its 'potential weaknesses'

EU Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik has told the Federation of Germany Industry that while the country is one of Europe's strongest performers, it has a number of weaknesses 'which must not be under-rated'.

Stem cell research at the Technical University of Dresden

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (German Research Foundation) approved a new research training group for stem cell research at the Technical University of Dresden (TU Dresden). It is Germany's first research training group specifying on this topic.

Fraunhofer Society's earned income rises to 63 percent

Despite the strained market for research and development services in Germany, the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft was able to consolidate its position and increase its operational budget to a total of 1.069 billion euros in 2004.

AthenaWeb: new EU portal to raise mobility of scientific audiovisual information

The European Commission has launched a new professional portal for audiovisual scientific information with the aim of boosting science film production and circulation in Europe.

Jürgen Mlynek to become new Helmholtz President

The Senate of the Helmholtz Association of National Research Centres today elected unanimously Professor Dr. Jürgen Mlynek as the successor to the serving Helmholtz President, Professor Dr. Walter Kröll.

Beyond therapy

Deadline for applications to interdisciplinary workshop ends on 15 August 2005

Time to celebrate "Jugend forscht"

Four decades of encouragement for young researchers

Commission outlines new strategy for pharmaceutical industry

EU Industry and Enterprise Commissioner Günter Verheugen has outlined a strategy to improve the pharmaceutical industry's competitiveness within the EU.

Mobile holography and laser systems - caesar presents new technologies at the Laser 2005 in Munich

Experts in the field of optical technology meet biennially at the "Laser – World of Photonics" in Munich. The Bonn research center caesar is exhibiting again at this year’s fair which will take place from 13 to 16 June.

Commission launches new website for science education

The European Commission has launched a new European gateway for science education - the Xplora portal - to make science more interesting to young people and encourage them to take up scientific careers.

Looking small, thinking big - keeping Europe at the forefront of nanotechnology

The European Commission has announced the ways in which it intends to keep Europe at the forefront of the fast-moving field of nanotechnology in a safe and responsible way.

European funding for research on biomolecular nanomachines

Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces receives 2.0 Million Euro for new European research network

Europeans support more money for research

According to two Eurobarometer reports published yesterday, 71% of EU citizens agree that collaborative research at EU level is growing in importance and 59% consider that the EU should spend more money on scientific research.

10th permission for stem cell research has been granted

The Robert Koch Institute in Berlin, which is the authority responsible for applications for the import and use of human embryonic stem cells, has granted the tenth permission for stem cell research.

EGNOS satellite navigation system delivered to ESA by industry

A key step for satellite navigation in Europe was achieved on 16 June 2005, with the formal completion of the technical qualification of the European Geostationary Navigation Overlay Service (EGNOS) and the acceptance of the EGNOS system delivered to ESA.

ScanBalt Campus - Coordinating Education and Research in ScanBalt BioRegion

ScanBalt Campus, a transnational showcase for a shared university structure was initiated at a conference at Lund University, Sweden. Behind it are 31 universities, regional networks, technology transfer organisations and companies from 11 countries located in ScanBalt BioRegion.

Conflict over EU budget reveals wide support for more R&D spending

As reactions to the UK Prime Minister's criticism of the EU's spending priorities start pouring in, it appears that there is widespread support for increased European investment in science and innovation.

Remaining consortia table joint bid for Galileo concession as ITRE committee approves budget

The two remaining private consortia bidding for the concession to lead the deployment and operational phases of Europe's satellite navigation system, Galileo, have submitted a joint proposal to the Galileo Joint Undertaking (GJU).

From Network to System

New Max Planck Partner Institute in Shanghai focuses on research into biological networks.

New billions for education

German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder declared Thursday a "good day for research in Germany" as he unveiled an ambitious plan to boost education and innovation in Europe's largest economy.

New consultation on simplification in FP7

A consultation on simplification within the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) has been launched by the European Commission.

SYNTHESIS project announces third call for proposals

The SYNTHESYS office has announced the third call for proposals under the Commission's Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) Integrated Infrastructure Initiative.

An ambitious project for the 2006 FIFA World Cup is under way

Researchers are setting up a service portal for mobile terminals that will interlink local services. “Servingo” will provide infotainment and logistics on all aspects of the big event, regardless of the user’s location.

Joint bid wins Galileo concession contract

The winning proposal merging the two initial competitors, Eurely and iNavSat, is expected to bring higher commercial revenues thanks to a concentration of the know-how of the two bidders.

US Fraunhofer Center receives Grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

Fraunhofer Center for Molecular Biotechnology in Delaware receives $1.2 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for pre-clinical studies towards the development of a vaccine against African trypanosomiasis.

Vehicle of ETH Zurich with the highest fuel efficiency: PAC-Car sets new world record

ETH Zurich set itself a goal to construct a vehicle that used as little fuel as possible and provided the highest possible fuel efficiency.

German research organisations welcome agreement on 'Excellence Initiative'

The German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German Science Council have welcomed their government's approval of the 'Excellence Initiative'. The country's universities and scientists have been waiting some time for the agreement.

Ernst & Young survey: Germany top investment location

Western Europe is still the most attractive world economic area overall, and Germany ranks at the top for investment locations in Western Europe, according to a survey of over 600 international business executives by accounting firm Ernst & Young.

ESA project heralds bright future for European solar energy

Integration of near real-time ground radiance measurements with solar energy business practices ensures the optimal operating conditions for solar energy plants.

FP7 negotiations 'to dominate' UK Presidency research agenda

With the UK taking over the EU Presidency on 1 July, the country's Under-Secretary of State for Science and Innovation, Lord Sainsbury of Turville, has predicted that the research agenda during London's six-month tenure will be dominated by negotiations on the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7).

New Science and Research Search Engine Launched

With www.ForschungsPortal.Net the BMBF opens the door to science on the web.

Biochance PLUS: Prospects for 5 Biotech Companies in Regensburg

In the latest promotional rounds for the BMBF Programme BioChancePLUS, from more than 133 submitted project drafts, 5 proposals from companies in the BioRegio Regensburg were selected. A total of over € 9 million will be invested in the firms and their project partners in the next 3 years.

Cell death triggered by stress

A team of molecular biologists at the German Cancer Research Centre (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ) has found evidence that when cells are subjected to too much strain, their control centre gives an order to commit suicide. The results of this basic research are expected to lead to new approaches in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

Technology platform calls for 40 per cent increase in embedded systems research

The industry-led ARTEMIS technology platform (advanced research and technology for embedded intelligence in systems) has warned that investment in pre-competitive research in embedded computing must rise 40 per cent by 2010 if Europe is to remain at the forefront of the digital economy.

Germany has the highest number of R & D intensive regions

R&D efforts highly concentrated in economic clusters and EU top regions

'Plants for the future' Technology Platform outlines strategic research agenda

Stakeholders got a glimpse into the future of European agricultural production on 5 July when the 'Plants for the future' Technology Platform unveiled its proposed strategic research agenda for plant genomics and biotechnology in Strasbourg, France.

'Life sciences, genomics and biotechnology for health' call for SMEs

The European Commission has published a call for proposals dedicated to SMEs under the 'Life sciences, genomics and biotechnology for health' section of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6).

Call for proposals - FP6 priorities 4 and 6

The European Commission has published a joint call for proposals under the priority areas 'Aeronautics and space', 'Sustainable energy systems' and 'Sustainable surface transport' of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6).

Guidelines for next generation cohesion policy include strong focus on research

The Commission has published a set of strategic guidelines establishing the key priorities for the next generation of EU cohesion policy programmes, including a strong focus on research and innovation.

Nano businesses at risk from regulators and insurers, says Cientifica

A new paper from consultant company Cientifica has outlined the dilemmas facing businesses considering investing in nanotechnology applications, in particular in terms of future regulations and legal action.

Sixth 'life sciences, genomics and biotechnology for health' call for proposals

The European Commission has launched a call for proposals under the 'Life sciences, genomics and biotechnology for health' section of the Sixth Framework Programme.

Enhanced Innovation and European Cooperation

The DFG (German Research Foundation) Presents Its 2004 Annual Report

Food quality and safety call - specific support actions

The call focuses on specific support actions (SSAs) in the area of food quality and safety.

Food quality and safety call - STREPs and CAs

This is one of the areas covered by the 'Integrating and strengthening the European Research Area' specific programme.

Food quality and safety call - Integrated Projects and Networks of Excellence

The European Commission has published a call for proposals in the area of 'Food quality and safety' under the Sixth Framework Programme's (FP6) activity of the same name. This is one of the areas covered by the 'Integrating and strengthening the European Research Area' specific programme.

General Assembly of the DFG Welcomes the Excellence Initiative

The General Assembly of the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) has welcomed the final agreement and commitment by the German federal government and the states to fund top-level research at German universities by means of an 'Excellence Initiative'.

European joint venture to develop in-flight mobile-phone gear

Siemens and Airbus, the pan-European aircraft manufacturer, have joined forces in a common venture to develop technology that will make ordinary mobile phone calls possible for passengers in flight by 2006, the companies said on 11 July.

German-Japanese research cooperation opens the door to new markets

A new collaborative venture was sealed in Munich on Friday July 15 by researchers from the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and Japanese colleagues from Tohoku University in Japan: Their joint objective is to develop MEMS, micro-electromechanical systems for small and medium-sized enterprises in Japan.

Commission report: gene sequences are patentable

A Commission report concludes that there are no objective grounds for restrictions on traditional patent protection for inventions relating to sequences of human genes. However, other issues relating to ethics, to research and to economics have been raised. 

Germany is World Leader in Effort to Prevent Climate Change

Germany is already close to complying with the reduction commitments assumed under the Kyoto Protocol. However, it aims to continue to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, as indicated in its National Climate Protection Program 2005.

Germany to fund clinical studies with 30 million euro

Some 30 million euro will be made available for clinical studies in Germany between now and 2008. The money will be provided by the German Federal Ministry for Education and Research and the German Research Foundation (DFG).

New Sub-Millimetre Light in the Desert - APEX telescope sees First Light at Chajnantor

The Atacama Pathfinder Experiment (APEX) project has just passed another major milestone by successfully commissioning its new technology 12-m telescope, located on the 5100m high Chajnantor plateau in the Atacama Desert (Chile). The APEX telescope, designed to work at sub-millimetre wavelengths, in the 0.2 to 1.5 mm range, has just performed its first scientific observations. This new front-line facility will provide access to the "Cold Universe" with unprecedented sensitivity and image quality.

Bioindustry disappointed by Commission's uncertain position on patenting

The European association for bioindustries, EuropaBio, has expressed its disappointment at the failure of the European Commission to take a position on the patenting of human DNA and human stem cells, which were not clarified in the EU Biotechnology Patents Directive.

Countries work together to promote use of ICT within research

Organisations from four EU countries have come together to form the Knowledge Exchange Network - a means to promote the use of information and communications technology (ICT) within research and higher education.

DFG Establishes 11 New Research Units

EUR14.5 million awarded for three-year funding period

French competitiveness clusters unveiled

French Prime Minister Dominique de Villepin has announced the six industrial clusters and 61 competitiveness clusters or 'pôles de compétitivité' that will receive funding 'in an effort to redraw and modernise the industrial map of this country'. The funds initially foreseen for this initiative have been doubled, from 750 million to 1.5 billion euro.

Germany the 12th country to join Aurora Exploration Programme

Germany has announced that it will join the preparatory phase of the European space exploration programme Aurora, thus becoming the 12th country participating in the initiative.

CaReS® - Permission for the clinical application in the USA received

As the first and only non American enterprise the Ars Arthro AG (Esslingen) receives approval to the IND application for the clinical application of the Cartilage-Regeneration Technology CaReS® in the US-American market from the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Germany and Japan intensify cooperation in innovative key areas of science and economics

Twelve German Networks of Competence initiate cooperation with Japanese knowledge clusters.

Innovation reports published by kompetenznetze.de

Four innovation reports presenting German Networks of Competence have recently been published by the management office of kompetenznetze.de. By pooling the resources and expertise of a wide range of players in industry and science, Networks of Competence facilitate the development of advanced technologies ripe for international commercialisation.

EUREKA project presents monitoring system for hazardous rail freight

The EUREKA project 'Logchain Translog Safety' has developed a satellite-based system for monitoring the transportation of hazardous rail freight between Europe and Asia.

New degree courses at the University of Applied Sciences in Jena

From this coming winter semester, there will be several new degree courses in the area of SciTec at the University of Applied Sciences in Jena. New B.A. courses in Opthalmics, Precision Engineering, Physical Technology, and Process-Integrated Environmental Protection will replace the old Diploma courses.

US comes out on top in EU-US innovation comparison

A report comparing the innovative performance of the US and the EU has painted a gloomy picture of Europe's ability to compete, and has offered five recommendations to get the EU back on track.

Innovative Medicines Initiative outlines strategic research agenda

The Technology Platform for innovative medicines has outlined a draft strategic research agenda that aims to address current bottlenecks in the biomedical research and development (R&D) process and accelerate the development of safe and effective new medicines.

Brain pacemaker brings sense to nerve cells

Prof. Dr. Dr. Peter A. Tass from the Research Centre Jülich and Prof. Dr. Volker Sturm from the University of Cologne have been awarded the Science Prize of the Donors' Association – the Erwin Schrödinger Prize for their development of a brain pacemaker for the treatment of nervous disorders such as Parkinson's Disease.

Commission to invest one billion euro in ICT research

The European Commission is about to launch 276 new research projects in the field of information and communication technologies (ICT). The projects will receive one billion euro in funding between them - the largest amount ever awarded by the EU as the result of a single call for proposals.

UK researchers transfer nearly 1.3 million euro in research grants to Germany

Around 900,000 GBP (1.3 million euro) in UK research grants has been transferred to German institutions in the past four years, thanks to a scheme to promote mobility among researchers in the two countries.

Building bridges between industry, academia and across disciplines

In Factors Affecting University-Industry R&D Collaboration: The importance of screening and signalling , authors Roberto Fontana, Aldo Geuna, and Mirelle Matt identify common characteristics of industrial firms with formal R&D agreements and successful collaborations with universities and other public research organizations.

Report provides comprehensive analysis of Europe's nano infrastructure

Nanoforum, the thematic network funded by the EU under the Fifth Framework Programme (FP5), has produced a report detailing Europe's nanotechnology infrastructure and networks.

Chancellor Schröder hands over new free-electron laser at DESY

With the symbolic push of a button, German Federal Chancellor Gerhard Schröder handed over the new free-electron laser to scientists at the German research centre, Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) on 3 August.

Excellence initiative by the German federal and state governments to promote science and research at German universities

Three funding lines: Graduate schools, excellence clusters, plans for advancing top-level university research

Global scientific research project launched to improve understanding of the human brain

Seven member countries of the OECD’s Global Science Forum have launched a project to promote international collaboration among scientists and create new ways of sharing and analysing data to improve our understanding of how the human brain works.

Germany is once more a land of ideas, says Bulmahn

Germany has once again become the 'land of ideas', according to the country's Education and Research Minister, Edelgard Bulmahn.

Six countries to fund joint systems biology projects

Six European countries are to launch a call for tenders for systems biology and microorganisms, the German Federal Ministry for Education and Research has announced.

EURAB sets out arguments for doubling EU research budget

The European Research Advisory Board (EURAB) has published its report and recommendations on the financial perspectives for the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), arguing that a doubling of the EU research budget is 'an absolute minimum target'.

German-US Cooperation on Energy Stepped Up

Senior representatives from the United States and Germany met in Berlin on August 12, 2005 to initiate the “U.S.- Germany Working Group on Energy, Development, and Climate Change.”

EURYI Award 2005

Prizes awarded to 25 young researchers from 15 countries

Hundreds of genes identified that are involved in the pathophysiology of inflammatory bowel disease

Medicine researchers from the German Genome Research Network (NGFN) have analysed the expression of tens of thousands of genes from patients with inflammatory bowel disease (ulcerative colitis and Crohn disease) using a genome wide approach to produce a comprehensive picture of which genes are activated in these conditions.

Harder than diamond

Physicists  at the University of Bayreuth have created a material that is harder than diamond by subjecting carbon-60 molecules to immense pressure. The new form of carbon, which is known as 'aggregated diamond nanorods' (ADNR), is expected to have many industrial applications.

Max Planck researchers uncover the mechanisms of a new, more effective vaccine against tuberculosis

With some 2.5 million deaths and nine million new cases annually, tuberculosis (TB), along with HIV/AIDS, is responsible for the greatest number of infectious disease victims worldwide. A team at the Max Planck Institute for Infection Biology in Berlin, Germany, has designed a novel tuberculosis vaccine with high vaccine efficacy.

Scientists look for patterns of Alzheimer early warning signs

Study reveals that people can show early warning signs across several cognitive domains ten years before they are officially diagnosed.

German candidates debate science in run up to election

Scientific research has become a major issue in Germany's national elections with Federal Education and Research Minister Edelgard Bulmahn reversing her position on the country's stem cell law.

IAA PKW 2005: Artificial Intelligence as an innovation engine of the Automotive

The German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) develops communication and driver assistance systems - A presentation at the "2.Saarbrücker IT-Dialog Automotive Industry: The 100% secure car made in Saarland" at the IAA.

European astronomers detect a homeless black hole

A team of European astronomers, using two of the most powerful astronomical facilities available - the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and the ESO Very Large Telescope (VLT) at Cerro Paranal, Chile - have discovered a bright quasar without the usual accompanying massive host galaxy.

DFG To Fund Nine Clinical Trials

Special Joint Programme with the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research

Genetic sequencing reveals chimps and humans 'so near, and yet so far'

An international team of scientists has sequenced the genetic code of the chimpanzee, our closest living relative, and compared it with the human genome. The comparison shows that the DNA sequence of the two species is 99 percent identical. The chimpanzee is the first primate genome to be sequenced. Future research will focus on the significance of the differences in an attempt to unveil what makes humans human, and therefore different from other animals.

European scientists prove new link between stem cells and tumours

Scientists at the European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) in Heidelberg and the Institute of Biomedical Research of the Parc Científic de Barcelona (IRB-PCB) have now added key evidence to claims that some types of cancer originate with defects in stem cells.

Commission makes a push for wider accessibility of ICTs

The Commission has adopted a communication on eAccessibility, designed to encourage the development of information and communication technologies (ICTs) that are accessible to all, including people with disabilities and the elderly.

German innovating technology to track cancer with micro bubbles

The German company Siemens Medical Solutions has developed a completely new generation of ultrasound contrast media, also known as micro-bubbles, allowing them to track cancer and metastases. The new method is already being used in several European hospitals, with the focus on diagnosing liver cancer and other liver lesions. Additional medical fields of application are currently in the research phase.

Unique Map Created of Human Protein Interactions

Scientists of the German National Genome Research Network have developed a map - the first one in international research - showing 3,186 interactions between 1,705 human proteins. Among them: 531 previously unknown interactions involving 195 disease proteins, highly relevant for medical research.

Will biofuels cut our dependence on fossil fuels?

A bio-based economy is one that relies on renewable resources and new biological processes in its manufacturing base.

EU breathes LIFE into environmental technologies

The European Commission has announced that it has selected 89 innovation projects out of the 534 applications it received from public and private organisations to finance environmental innovation projects under the LIFE-Environment programme.

Placebo effects differ depending on gender

The effects of placebos on patients depend on the gender of the patient and the doctor administering the drug, according to a recent study conducted at the University of Tuebingen. Women generally tend to respond better to placebos then men, the study suggests.

Commissioner Kroes unveils plans to improve state aid rules to support innovation

A consultation document on measures to boost innovation in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) was launched by the European Commission on 21 September.

New online scholarship database for study stays in Germany

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) has set up a new online information service for students, graduates, and postgraduates interested in a study stay in Germany.

European Commission launches PRO INNO Europe initiative - calls for proposals

The European Commission has launched the PRO INNO Europe initiative, designed to foster trans-European cooperation between national and sub-national innovation programmes and actions, through five calls for proposals under the Research and Innovation section of the Sixth Framework Programme for Research and Development (FP6).

EURYI Awards: Call for Proposals

For the third time the “European Young Investigator (EURYI) Awards” will be awarded by the European Heads of Research Councils (EUROHORCs) in cooperation with the European Science Foundation (ESF).

UN report highlights internationalisation of research and development

The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) issued its annual World Investment Report (WIR) on 29 September. WIR 2005 includes UNCTAD's first-ever survey on research and development by transnational corporations, dealing with the growing complexity and internationalisation of research and development (R&D) led by multinational enterprises.

BMBF commences the “Technical application of self-organisation” support programme

This programme is intended to help develop self-organisation processes for the realisation of numerous technological applications. This is to be performed by way of the funding of co-operative industrial projects involving applied research. The relevant guidelines were published in the German Federal Bulletin on the 29th of September.

Almost 300 Draft Proposals Received

Universities Vie for Funding Under the Excellence Initiative

Landesstiftung Baden-Württemberg Association to bring top international researchers to Baden-Württemberg

Three projects will be carried out at the Universities of Stuttgart-Hohenheim, Freiburg and Heidelberg involving top international researchers. As part of the “Top international research” programme, the Landesstiftung Baden-Württemberg Association has set aside approximately €1.5 million for these projects.

Commission adopts Green Paper on a new strategy for mental health

The Commission adopted a Green Paper on Mental Health on 17 October designed to tackle mental illnesses in Europe. The Green Paper, 'Promoting the mental health of the population: Towards a strategy on mental health for the European Union', aims to launch a public consultation on how better to tackle mental illness and promote mental well-being in the EU.

Council adopts Directive to smooth entry of third country researchers into EU

The Council of Ministers has adopted a new Directive calling on the Member States to establish a fast-track system for the admission of third country nationals to the EU for the purposes of scientific research.

Micro Systems Technology Congress 2005 held in Freiburg

Be it integrated in portable fuel cells, medical diagnostics chips or tiny RFID-labels – micro systems technology is always involved in some way.

US dominance in global R&D investment challenged, report says

A new report from consultant company Cientifica says that Europe and Asia are challenging US dominance in global spending on research and development (R&D).

CORDIS re-launches its Science and Technology Foresight service with revamped and new content

Science and technology foresight activities have a new home on CORDIS, the EU's official information service on research, technological development and innovation. The web service has been revamped jointly by CORDIS, and the Foresight unit of the European Commission's Directorate General for Research.

First centre for biosystems analysis in Germany

Foundation stone laid for an exceptional research institution – more than €17 million in funds for science.

Nanobiotechnology for use in agriculture

The Federal Agricultural Research Centre (FAL) has become a partner in the European NANOIMPRINT project.

Public consultation on risk assessment methods for nanotechnologies

The European Commission launched a public consultation on risk assessment methods for nanotechnologies on 20 October.

EUREKA confirms launch of ITEA 2 and calls for SME joint venture for FP7

The European network for market-led research (EUREKA) has announced the launch of the ITEA 2 thematic cluster, designed to build on the success of its predecessor ITEA (information technology for European advancement).

ERA-NET and Article 169 initiatives to be extended in FP7

A new Commission brochure entitled 'Networking the European Research Area' gives an update on the implementation of two instruments intended to coordinate national programmes - ERA-NETs and Article 169 - and suggests that they are likely to be reinforced in the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7).

Commission selects 27 projects to promote ICT use in education

The Commission has earmarked six million euro for 27 projects designed to promote the use of information and communication technologies (ICT) in education, as part of its Socrates programme.

DAAD internship programmes

The DAAD is now looking for places for 2006 to offer students from over eighty different countries the opportunity to gain experience in German companies.

EU funded project launches technology roadmap for agent-based computing

A roadmap which suggests how agent-based computing could develop over the next decade has been launched, presenting a vision of the development of this technology, its application areas and likely barriers to adoption.

Business awards honor innovative companies

Eight of Germany's leading companies were honored this week at the "Best of European Business Awards" in Berlin highlighting achievements in growth, innovation, value creation and strategies for eastern European markets.

Optimism abounds among German executives: Survey

Germany's leading measure of business confidence, the Ifo institute index, surged to a five-year high this week, raising hopes of stronger growth in Europe's largest economy.

Commission hails 2004 as successful year for European research

The Commission has published its annual report on research and technological development (RTD) activities for 2004, citing many developments that made it, in the Commission's opinion, a successful year.

ESBIO project aims to prove the value of EU-wide human biomonitoring

The Commission is supporting a new initiative aimed at establishing a European approach to human biomonitoring (HBM); a technique, based on tissue and fluid analysis, for assessing human exposure to and the health effects of environmental pollutants.

Fraunhofer in Moscow

Russian scientists and companies have been cooperating closely with Fraunhofer researchers over many years. Now an offical Fraunhofer Representative Office openes its doors in Moscow. Its task is to promote technology transfer and expand strategic partnerships.

SSETI launches European student microsatellite

The Student Space Exploration & Technology Initiative (SSETI) has launched the first pan-European student microsatellite, SSETI Express, from Plesetsk, Russia, on October 27th, 2005.

Germany commissions the world's most modern conventional subs

U 212: This cutting-edge propulsion system enables the U212A submarines to move virtually noiselessly underwater, thus making them very difficult to detect.

Commission to invest 151 million euro in mobile and wireless systems research

The Commission has provided details of the retained project proposals following the fourth Information Society Technologies (IST) call of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6), with the largest portion of funding (151 million euro) being set aside for mobile and wireless systems research.

Labour market for researchers faces changes

According to an annual report on EU R&D, the labour market for researchers is deeply changing as knowledge-intensive services solicite Europe's best brains.

Survey finds rapid increase in number of authors embracing open access

More and more scientists are publishing in open access journals, according to a study by CIBER, an independent publishing think tank based at City University in London, the UK.

Critical Military Nanotechnology book released

Juergen Altmann of Bochum University announced the release of his critical assessment of Potential Applications and Preventive Arms Control of Military Nanotechnology.

Max Planck Institute and Cellomics Announce Collaboration for High Content Screening Development

The Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG), located in Dresden, Germany, and Cellomics, a unit of Fisher Biosciences, recently announced a joint collaboration in the field of High Content Screening (HCS).

The U.S., Japan, South Korea, and Germany Dominate in Nanotechnology Today - But Taiwan and China Are Rising

Lux Research Report Charts Shifts in Competitiveness as Winners and Losers Emerge in Nanotechnology

Coburg signs agreement with the Shanghai Institute of Technology

The University of Applied Sciences in Coburg has reaffirmed its agreement with the Shanghai Institute of Technology. Coburg has been cooperating with the Institute since 1998.

Green MEPs call for reassessment of EU energy research priorities

A group of MEPs from the Green/EFA group of the European Parliament has called for a rethink of the EU's energy priorities under the proposed Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), arguing that the relatively limited funds for research should be prioritised according to objective scientific criteria.

Commission proposes comprehensive new SME policy

The European Commission has tabled proposals for a new and comprehensive policy for small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), streamlining EU instruments for small businesses and creating a genuine partnership between the EU and Member States in this area.

Despite increased levels of ICT use the digital divide remains, show Eurostat figures

One week before the opening of the World Summit on the Information Society, Eurostat has released new data on the digital divide in Europe, showing that the gap is mainly a matter of age and education.

Publication of the new “Studienführer Biologie”

The new “Studienführer Biologie” (biology study guide) provides an overview of the current and ongoing changes leading to internationally-acknowledged bachelor's and master's degrees.

Key industry sectors sign up to futher refine, reduce and replace the use of animals in testing

A declaration committing support for new approaches to refine, reduce, and replace the use of laboratory animals in testing (the so-called 3 Rs) was agreed in Brussels by key industry sectors representing the European chemical, cosmetic, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, soap and detergents, animal health, and crop protection industries.

Special DAAD scholarships for the tsunami region

The German Academic Exchange Service ( DAAD ) is continuing its aid programme for the areas in South Asia that were worst hit by the tsunami by introducing new scholarships to enable the training of experts about how best to act when a catastrophe hits.

The DFG agrees joint funding schemes with its British and Russian partner organisations

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG, German Research Foundation) has reached joint funding agreements with its British and Russian partner organisations to enhance international cooperation in the humanities and social sciences.

GMES enters pilot phase

The European Commission launched the pilot phase of Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) programme on 14 November, pressing ahead with plans to introduce the first earth observation services.

No doubling of research budget but 'significant' increase, predicts Mitsos

The outgoing Director General of the Commission's Research DG, Achilleas Mitsos, has expressed his optimism that an agreement on the EU's Financial Perspectives can be reached under the current UK Presidency.

EU project cluster documents best practice in cooperative production networks research

Today, many global industries are characterised by significant overcapacity, and in an environment where supply outweighs demand, customers are demanding better levels of service and products tailored to their own needs.

Coalition set after parties back deal

Germany's two main parties have signed a comprehensive coalition deal paving the way for conservative leader Angela Merkel to head the country's first left-right government in 40 years.

German growth picks up speed

Better-than-expected economic growth in the third quarter has boosted hopes of a turnaround on Germany's fragile labor market.

WSIS reaches compromise Internet governance

The second World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) closed on November 18 in Tunis, Tunisia, with delegates managing to reach an agreement on the two key issues on the agenda: internet governance and tackling the digital divide.

Commission streamlines rules for registration of medicines

New rules on the registration of medicines for human and veterinary use have been adopted by the European Medicines Agency (EMEA), based on proposals put forward by the European Commission.

Germany participates in the world’s largest experiment

In Malargüe, a small town in western Argentina, plans are currently underway for the world’s largest scientific experiment to observe cosmic radiation: the Pierre Auger Observatory.

Presentation of Eppendorf Young Investigator Award 2005 in Düsseldorf

The 2005 award is the 11th research prize awarded by the Hamburg Biotech company to honor outstanding work in biomedical research in Europe. This year, the prize was awarded to Dr. Thomas Helleday (34) from the Arrhenius Laboratory, Stockholm, Sweden. His most recent work on concepts of gene therapy have opened up promising paths for the treatment of certain forms of breast carcinoma through the selective killing of the tumor cells.

Students are still interested in going to university

A study sponsored out by the Federal Ministry for Education and Research (BMBF) has revelead that the interest in going on to study at university after the Abitur (A-Levels) remains constant, with 71% wanting to go on to tertiary level education.

Promotion of Novel Waste Water Technologies by the EU

The European Commission has decided to boost the development and application of European membrane bioreactor processes for municipal wastewater treatment through financing two projects within the scope of its 6th Framework Program. The co-ordinators are Kompetenzzentrum Wasser Berlin and the Norwegian University of Science and Technology.

ESA opens doors of international space station to new member states and SMEs

The European Space Agency (ESA) has launched a new EU-funded project under the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) to open up access to the International Space Station (ISS) for new groups of researchers. Two million euro is available to support the transport and execution of selected scientific and industrial experiments over the next four years.

From intelligent cars to the prevention of heart attacks

DFG Approves Twelve New Collaborative Research Centres

Laser summerschool 2006 in Hanover – Call for papers

In June 2006, the "Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V." will celebrate its twentieth anniversary with a series of events including a summerschool.

New International Max Planck Research School “Optics and Imaging” at Erlangen University

The Max Planck Society has started a new International Max Planck Research School “Optics and Imaging” at Erlangen University.

"Science year 2006" is dedicated to computer science

The “science year 2005”, commemorating Albert Einstein, was celebrated by a closing ceremony in Berlin yesterday. Next year’s “science year” will focus on computer science.

Technology Platform emphasises interdisciplinarity in roadmap for sustainable chemistry research

The Sustainable Chemistry (SusChem) Technology Platform has unveiled a strategic research agenda, which maps approaches for three priority fields - industrial biotechnology; material technologies; reaction and process design - and highlights the value of interdisciplinarity.

Degussa endows European research award

Scientists working at research facilities in Europe may apply for the “Degussa European Science-to-Business Award”. The theme for the 2006 prize is material sciences and related technologies.

Nanotechnology: Encouragement for small companies

The German BMBF (Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung) [Federal Ministry of Education and Research] intends to use the NanoChance program to encourage small and medium-sized companies in Germany in nanotechnology.

Potocnik welcomes 'virtual' Council agreement on FP7 proposals

The Competitiveness Council has reached a provisional agreement on the structure of the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7), providing the basis for future discussions following the opinion of the European Parliament and the outcome of the Financial Perspectives debate.

Competitiveness Council endorses Commission's approach to CIP

The Competitiveness Council backed the Commission's proposed approach for establishing a competitiveness and innovation framework programme (CIP), after reviewing a progress report on 29 November.

BITE project initiates a European debate on the ethics of biometrics

Biometrics technology is increasingly being discussed as a means to tackle fraud and theft. National debates are underway in several countries on how desirable this technology is. A wider examination of its implications, involving all potential stakeholders, is yet to take place.

Hübner looks for synergies between future regional and research policies in support of innovation

European Commissioner for Regional Policy, Danuta Hübner, spoke to the European Parliament's committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) on November 29, elaborating the Commission's plans for better coordination between regional and research policies in the search for more European innovation.

New center spotlights science and architecture

A spaceship-shaped science center in the city of Wolfsburg is Germany's newest attraction for science-crazed kids and architecture fans alike.

Scholarships for students from Central and Eastern Europe

The Hertie Foundation offers scholarships for study and research stays at the Universities of Chemnitz and Bamberg.

A research and innovation vision to foster CO2-free energy

The Technology Platform (TP) on zero emission fossil fuel power plants (ZEFFPP) was launched on 1 December. The final goal of the platform is to reduce the environmental impact of fossil fuel use so that, by 2020, fossil fuel power plants are capable of delivering, in an economically viable manner, near zero CO2 emissions.

Commission to establish panel on environmental technologies

EU Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas has announced that the Commission intends to establish a panel on environmental technologies.

Descartes Prize for Research and Science 2005

The EU Commissioner for Science and Research has awarded the prestigious EU Descartes Research Prizes, worth 1.000 000 Euro, to outstanding European research teams in genetics, climate change, astronomy, social sciences, and disease management.

Dresden: new MBA in Logistics Management

27 students from China have been welcomed on the new MBA in Logistics Management by Dresden International University’s president Prof. Kurt Biedenkopf. The programme, intended for candidates with a strong interest in understanding logistics and operations, has a managerial focus and offers training in the fields of advanced logistics, operations, manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain management issues, concepts, tools and applications.

American and European supercomputing infrastructures linked through a common wide-area global file system

TeraGrid ( www.teragrid.org ), the US supercomputing cyber­infrastructure, and DEISA ( www.deisa.org ), the corresponding European supercomputing grid infrastructure, have been linked, for the purposes of a technology demonstration, by a common, scalable, wide-area global file system spanning two continents.

Cross-border mergers: getting easier in Europe

Companies wanting to carry out cross-border mergers within Europe will soon have it much easier than ever.

ESA ministers emphasise European cooperation and international partnerships for space research and European competitiveness

The European Space Agency's ministerial council has decided on a plan, including new initiatives as well as the continuation of current programmes, to develop scientific discovery and European competitiveness in space exploration and technology.

German biotech - strong and steady

A new survey shows that Germany's biotech industry is positioning itself for future growth. Consolidation is still ongoing, but revenue is increasing and there are clear signs that a recovery is underway.

European Research Council has priority over European Institute of Technology, say Europe's Universities

The European University Association (EUA) has published a statement expressing the views that a European Institute of Technology (EIT) must be built, but not at the expenses of the European Research Council.

Germany approves national reform program

The German cabinet approved a reform program on December 7 entitled "Moving forward with innovation - promoting security with change - completing German unification". It lays out the government's reform policy for the years 2005 to 2008, aimed at strengthening growth and employment in the framework of the European Union's so-called Lisbon Strategy.

Germany, „Land of Ideas“

Germany is a country of inventors, artists, philosophers, scientists, and entrepreneurs – in short, a "Land of Ideas". These ideas are projected, presented, promoted, and put into practice in different places in Germany.

Leibniz Prizewinners 2006

Germany's Most Prestigious Research Prize Awarded to Eleven Researchers

$10.6 Million Initiative Promotes Early Warning

Early Warning Bouys : Through fast and reliable technology Germany is making a significant contribution to making the lives of people in both Europe and in those regions of the Indian Ocean most threatened by natural disasters safer.

Potocnik warns of negative effects of Financial Perspectives debate

European Commissioner for Science and Research Janez Potocnik has warned that the ongoing negotiations on the EU's Financial Perspectives could have negative impacts on the European project as a whole.

EU companies turn the tide in R&D investment, but can't match competitors

The 2005 industrial R&D (research and development) investment scoreboard shows a turnaround in spending by European companies, with investment increasing. With a growth rate of 0.7 per cent (compared to a decline of two per cent last year), Europe's companies are however still behind the top non-EU companies, who this year saw a growth in R&D investment of seven per cent.

German-Polish Research Funding Given a New Boost

The DFG signs two new agreements on joint research funding with Poland

New "Master of European Regulation of Network Industries" at Bonn University

The Center for European Integration Studies at the University of Bonn and the Center for Applied Legal Studies at the University of Karlsruhe offer a new joint masters programme "European Regulation of Network Industries (MERNI)“.

Reding welcomes launch of Photonics Technology Platform

Information Society and Media Commissioner Viviane Reding has welcomed the launch of a European Technology Platform on photonics, and urged the European photonics industry to move ahead vigorously in order to take advantage of the emerging opportunities on offer to the sector.

2004 - 2005 Country Reports on innovation policy trends

The 2004-2005 country reports and country group reports on annual innovation policy trends have been published on the TrendChart website.

Metals under the microscope

Scientists at Fraunhofer and Max Planck institutes have teamed up in a joint research project to enhance the development of metallic materials. By combining their different approaches they hope to increase the precision with which the properties of metals can be simulated.

Political agreement on new EU chemical legislation

After two years of intense debate, the Competitiveness Council reached a political agreement on the draft regulation for the registration, evaluation, authorisation and restriction of chemicals (REACH) on 13 December.

UK budget proposals provide for 75 per cent increase in EU research funds

While the UK's latest proposals for the next EU budget have already been dismissed by many, Europe's research community is quietly celebrating the inclusion of provisions to guarantee a substantial increase in EU research funding over the budgetary period.

Austria presents Presidency research priorities

The Austrian government, which takes over the EU Presidency on 1 January, has published its priorities in the field of research. The priorities mainly concern pushing for the fast adoption of proposals.

German company among top five low carbon leaders

Bayer — the Leverkusen, Germany-based life sciences group — was this week honored for its outstanding achievements in the field of global climate protection.

Impact assessment report confirms success of FP5

According to the authors of a new report on the Fifth Framework Programme (FP5), the programme was a success, with high levels of goal attainment and impacts in terms of knowledge and networking that matched perfectly the generic goals of the EU's collaborative research programme.

Supporting innovative SMEs in the medicinal products sector

On 15 December the European Commission adopted a new regulation aimed at promoting the development of new medicinal products by small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), by facilitating procedures for obtaining a European-wide marketing authorisation from the European Medicines Agency (EMEA).

Council reaches agreement on Financial Perspectives

The prospect of a seamless transition from the Sixth to the Seventh Framework Programme received a boost in the early hours of 17 December, when EU leaders emerged from their Council meeting in Brussels to announce that a deal had been struck on the EU's budget for 2007 to 2013.

Polish-German Networking-Day on 27th January, 2006 in Szczecin

The aim of the Networking Day is to bring together participants from Poland and Germany to foster cross-border cooperation and to strengthen the international competitiveness of European regions within the thematic sessions focused on “Molecular Medicine in EuroRegion Pomerania”, “Sepsis”, “Plant Genetics” and “Transportation and Mobility”.

Germany to fund research into the safety of green gene technology

The German government is to support research into the safety of genetically modified (GM) plants with ten million euro over the next three years.

EU provides additional funds for Kyoto technology transfer

The European Commission is to contribute an additional 853,000 euro to support flexible mechanisms and technology transfer activities under the Kyoto protocol, as part of the agreement reached at the recent UN climate change conference in Montreal, Canada.

Investment in R&D must be further increased, Minister for Education and Science says

Germany’s spending of 54 billion euros on research and development puts it at the top of the EU member states. However, in order to achieve the 3% objective decided at Lisbon, further efforts will be necessary.

MEDIEN