WORK PROGRAMME 2007
CAPACITIES
PART 5
SCIENCE IN SOCIETY
(European Commission C(2007)563 of 26.02.2007)
FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
Changes to the Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society Theme
This work programme is an update with respect to the provisional version adopted on 21
December 2006. The majority of changes are minor typographical corrections. The more
substantive modifications are as follows:
p15 - the title of the first Cross-thematic topic (Area 5.1.2.3) has been slightly amended.
p33 - Area 5.3.0.5 (Promotion of excellent trans-national research and science communication
by the means of popular prizes) has been revised, so there are now only two categories of
prizes, SiS-2007-3.0.5.1 European Research Awards: Descartes prizes for transnational
collaborative research; and SiS-2007-3.0.5.2 European Research Awards: Prizes for science
communication. The descriptions of these topics have also been amended.
p35 - The timings of certain public procurements have been revised, and timings have been
provided for the award of expert group contracts.
p44 - Call Fiche 2 is also amended to reflect the changes in Area 5.3.0.5 (science prizes). New
dates of publication and closure of the related call for proposals are now indicated. Specific
evaluation criteria are now also provided, as well as indicative amounts of the awards.
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
Contents
I
CONTEXT
Policy Context
4
The Seventh Framework Programme and the Approach for the 2007 Work Programme 5
Other Activities: Cross Thematic partnerships; International cooperation Trans-
6
national cooperation among NCPs; Grants to named recipients;, Expert contracts,
Funding Schemes
II CONTENT OF CALLS IN 2007
5.1 - First Action Line A more dynamic governance of the science and society
10
relationship
5.1.1 Better understanding of the place of science and technology in society
10
5.1.2 Broader engagement to anticipate and clarify political, societal and ethical issues
13
5.1.3 Strengthening and improving the European science system
17
5.1.4 The evolving role of universities
19
5.2 Second Action Line Strengthening potential, broadening horizons
22
5.2.1 Gender
and
Research
22
5.2.2 Young People and Science
26
5.3 Third Action Line Science and society communicate
30
5.4 Fourth Action Line -Strategic Activities
34
III IMPLEMENTATION OF CALLS
39
IV INDICATIVE PRIORITIES FOR FUTURE CALLS
46
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
Objective
With a view to building an effective and democratic European knowledge-based society, the
aim is to stimulate the harmonious integration of scientific and technological endeavour and
associated research policies into European society.
I. CONTEXT
Policy context
For Europe to become the most advanced knowledge society in the world, it is imperative that
legitimate societal concerns and needs concerning science and technology development are
taken on board, entailing an enhanced democratic debate with a more engaged and informed
public and better conditions for collective choices on scientific issues.
Following the Council resolution of 20011 and the adoption of the Science and Society Action
Plan in December 2001, the "Science and Society" action of the specific programme
"Structuring the ERA" in Sixth Framework Programme was the first ever initiative in this
field at the European level scale, alongside mainstream Community research.
Science and Society in the Sixth Framework Programme has helped increase awareness
among socio-economic actors and decision-makers of the need to bring a range of research-
related societal issues to the top of the policy agenda. Several recent developments
(Eurobarometer surveys, conferences, high-level expert group reports) are evidence of this
trend. 2 The new programme for 2007-2013 will therefore build on the actions under the Sixth
Framework Programme, with greater coherence across its different elements and in the
involvement of different actors. It will also address new and emerging themes, placing greater
emphasis on issues such as: supporting multidisciplinary research addressing science-society
interactions as a system; capacity building of civil society organisations and their involvement
in research, and, cross-thematic and integrated actions, combining Science in Society
expertise with the science policy design and implementation belonging to other specific S&T
fields.
The change in perspective illustrated by the new title "Science in society" recognises that
research activities are a specific type of social activity that is embedded in a wider societal
context.
While "Science in Society" activities within the Seventh Framework Programme should
continue to build upon the progress and the achievements of the past, the overarching
objective for the period 2007-2013 is to make the "Science in Society" perspective a core
element of EU research policy, helping to shape its future priorities and ways of operating.
Science in Society' will be implemented through the following mix of initiatives:
ˇ Policy-related actions and research supported directly from this theme;
1 Council Resolution on science and society and women in science, Brussels, 3 July 2001 01357/01
2 Special Eurobarometer 224 "European, Science and Technology":
http://ec.europa.eu/public_opinion/archives/ebs/ebs_224_report_en.pdf
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ˇ Cooperation between Member States and associated countries, identifying common goals,
and reinforcing national practices, in the spirit of the open method of co-ordination;
ˇ Promoting, supporting and monitoring the uptake and impact of `Science in Society' issues
in other parts of the Framework Programme3. The overall coordination of issues related to
Science in Society both across the Framework Programme and within other relevant
Community activities (e.g. relating to education and culture) will be ensured by this theme.
The Seventh Framework Programme and the Approach for the 2007 Work
Programme
In pursuit of the overall programme objective, the Work Programme is organised along
Action Lines: The first aims for a more dynamic governance of the science and society
relationship; the second is concerned with strengthening potential and broadening horizons
with respect to issues of gender and science education; the third seeks to promote effective
two-way communication channels that enable the public to engage with science and vice
versa. The fourth action line contains a number of strategic activities.
This first Science in Society Work Programme under the Seventh Framework Programme has
two main goals. First, in the period 2007-2009, to ensure a certain measure of continuity with
the activities established under the Sixth Framework Programme, by capitalising on the
previous work and by reorienting certain initiatives towards the more ambitious objectives of
the Seventh Framework Programme. Secondly, the Work Programme in 2007 will prepare the
ground for the full deployment of new components from 2010 onwards. The Programme
should contribute to looking at civil society not as a constraint but as a driver and locus for
innovation and therefore an active player in building a democratic knowledge society. The
first years should therefore pave the way for this ambitious new perspective. Innovative
actions in this regard in the 2007 Work Programme include supporting capacity building for
non-research actors such as civil society organisations and developing research in the fields of
gender and of young people and science. The Work Programme, therefore, is designed in such
a way that the ratio of new actions to continuing activities will increase over the years. This
Work Programme is also based on advice received from the European Advisory Group for
Science and Society; from the European Research Advisory Board4, from expert groups5, via
SINAPSE6, and on the outcome of broad stakeholder consultations.7
3Includes the running of the ethical review procedures for proposals addressing sensitive issues under the
`Cooperation' specific programme.
4 EURAB In September and October 2005, EURAB produced the following advice on S&S-related issues : "Science and
Society" - An agenda for a responsive and responsible research in FP7-Final Report
http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/eurab/pdf/eurab_05_035_wg6_final_report-rev_160905.pdf;
Boosting European private R&D: The Foundation Stone of the New Lisbon Strategy
http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/eurab/pdf/eurab_05_036_wg5_final_report_en.pdf
5 Expert Group on Science and Governance http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/science-societ y/page_en.cfm?id=3195;
Expert Group on Reciprocal Influence of Science and Culture; Helsinki Group on Women and Science
http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/science-society/page_en.cfm?id=2906; Meeting of Minds - European Citizens
Deliberations on Brain Science http://www.meetingmindseurope.org/redirect.aspx?CREF=45;
Forum of National Ethics Councils http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/science-society/page_en.cfm?id=3161
6 http://ec.europa.eu/sinapse
7 The SiS Forum, March 2005 gathered 900 stakeholders from the entire range of the Science and Society landscape:
http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/science-society/page_en.cfm?id=3173
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
Other activities
Cross thematic partnerships
The principles inherent in this Work Programme will also be taken up, in different ways, in
other parts of the Seventh Framework Programme and in particular in the themes of the
Specific Programme `Co-operation'. Measures will be taken to promote, support and monitor
this process, and a degree of co-ordination will be assured. Where appropriate, cross-thematic
activities will be established which will focus on actions and measures of mutual benefit,
highlight synergies, and help bridge the gap between topical areas in science and technology
and society's interests.
The challenge today is to encourage actors in their own disciplines and fields to participate in
developing Science in Society perspectives from the very beginning of the conception of their
activities. This is in line with concepts developed in the field of governance, notably that of
"co-operative research" which resulted from the Gover'Science Seminar held in November
2005, i.e. a research process aiming as much at the harmonious societal integration of new
scientific and technological knowledge as to achieving the specific objective of the research
itself.8
Support for these Cross-Thematic Partnerships will take the form of expert groups,
conferences, studies and analyses, which will mobilise, in a synergistic way, the resources and
expertise associated with this programme, and the thematic priority in question.
Trans-national co-operation among NCPs
The network of National Contact Points (NCP) for the Seventh Framework Programme under
Science in Society will be reinforced by promoting trans-national co-operation. See Area 5.4,
below.
International Cooperation
Objectives: In pursuit of the widely acknowledged objective of a shared prosperity in the
global knowledge society, it is critical to facilitate closer cooperation between Europe and
third countries 9 or regions of the world, not simply by enhancing S&T international
cooperation, but also by addressing the societal aspects related to the research activities that
are carried out in the partner third countries. This will help ensure a global perspective on
science and societal issues that is not simply focused on European concepts of science. The
main objectives of building up a basis for international cooperation with selected third
countries or regions on science in society related issues are:
ˇ To establish privileged and mutually beneficial partnerships for jointly addressing crucial
research-related societal issues, e.g. the recognition of ethical issues entailed in clinical trials;
and to allow third countries' research teams to participate in the ongoing European dialogue.
8 See http://ec.europa.eu/research/science-society/pdf/goverscience_final_report_en.pdf
9 Countries which are not EU Member States, associated countries or EU candidate countries
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ˇ To contribute to the stability and prosperity of regions neighbouring the EU through
closer cooperation, not just in research and innovation, but also in addressing their societal
conditions, e.g. the role of women in research activities.
ˇ To share good practice on the ethical, legal and social environments that help reconcile
fast-growing scientific knowledge with local and regional cultures, in order to promote
citizens' understanding, equal opportunities from scientific progress and technology trade
based on a fair and equitable basis.
ˇ To prepare for wider and more concrete partnerships with the targeted third countries or
regions in the future.
The Science in Society Work Programme will support the participation of researchers and
research institutions from third countries in proposals that are submitted under the calls. In
particular, there will be specific focus in 2007 on the following areas:
a) International dialogue in the field of ethics
The selected area (5.1.2.2, below) demonstrates a sufficient level of maturity with respect
to previous actions related to capacity building in international cooperation partner
countries that were supported by the Science and Society budget in the Sixth Framework
Programme.
b) Survey of positive action schemes in the area of Research Decision-making
The selected area (5.2.1.1, below) will target active cooperation with the USA, Canada
and Australia.
The minimum participation requirements for the topics described in (a) and (b) above are
specified in Call Fiche 1.
Grants to named recipients under the Work Programme
a) Lisbon Conference on Ethics, September 2007 (European Science Foundation).
b) Portuguese Ministry for Science, Technology and Higher Education
c) European Union Contest for Young Scientists (University of Valencia)
d) 14th International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists, Lille, 2008
e) European Broadcasting Union
f) Lindau Foundation
Expert Contracts under the Work Programme
a) Expert reviews on examples of the adaptation of information on emerging issues for
science teaching.
b) Expert review of projects funded under the Sixth Framework Programme looking into the
societal dimension of energy technologies
c) `Learning Institutions' expert review: Training scheme for policy officers (based on the
model developed by projects funded under the Sixth Framework Programme such as
CIPAST, DOTIK and DECIDE)10.
d) Establishment of university-based research working group
e) Women in Science and Technology (WiST) working group
f) Expert Group on Gender and Excellence
10 http://www.cipast.org; http://ics.sissa.it/research/dotik.html; http://www.playdecide.org/decide_content.html
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Funding Schemes
The following gives an outline of the main features of the funding schemes:
I)
COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH PROJECTS (SMALL OR MEDIUM-SCALE FOCUSED PROJECTS)
- Targeted to specific objectives:
- research and development to generate new knowledge, improve European competitiveness
or address major societal needs;
- Clear focus and approach at project level
- Overall work plan clearly fixed for the whole project life
- Major deliverables planned in detail
- No changes expected in work plan and deliverables
- Adequate project management
- Management of the knowledge produced (protection, exploitation, dissemination)
Where Collaborative projects are indicated as the Funding Scheme, it is expected to fund one
or more projects per topic.
Under this 2007 Science in Society Work Programme, "Collaborative research projects
(small or medium-scale focused research projects)" are those which request a maximum EC
Contribution of 800.000. This maximum amount of the requested Community grant is a
criterion for eligibility of proposals.
II)
COORDINATION AND SUPPORT ACTIONS
In addition, Coordination and Support Actions will be used, according to the profile of each
topic. Coordination and Support Actions include actions aiming at coordinating research
activities and policies (CSA coordinating) and actions aiming at supporting research activities
and policies (CSA supporting). Besides grants subject to calls for proposals, other indirect
actions under the Rules for Participation may be carried out in accordance with the topic
profile pursued. These shall include grants to named recipients, public procurement, and
expert groups.
The forms of the grant to be used or the funding schemes under this Work Programme part
are given in Annex 3.
Civil Society Organisations
In the context of this Work Programme, civil society organisations are considered to be any
legal entity that is non governmental, not-for-profit, not representing commercial interests,
and pursuing a common purpose in the public interest.
Engaging society
The Seventh Framework Programme aims to increase the societal relevance of research. With
this in mind, the work programme will encourage greater public engagement and promote the
participation of citizens and civil society organisations in research and science policy-
making.
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The pursuit of scientific knowledge and its technical application towards society requires the
talent, perspectives and insight that an increasing diversity in the research workforce will
ensure. Therefore, a balanced representation of women and men at all levels in research
projects is encouraged. When human beings are involved as users, gender differences may
exist. These will be addressed as an integral part of the research to ensure the highest level of
scientific quality.
Activities in the work programme will be carried out according to fundamental ethical
principles.
With the aim of encouraging young people's interest in science and science studies, account
will be taken of the possible relevance of research results for the purposes of science
education. Where appropriate, communication and dissemination strategies will address the
wider audience of policy-makers, the media and the general public (including young people),
in order to promote increased understanding between the scientific world and society at large.
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II. CONTENT OF CALLS IN 2007
`Science in Society' will be implemented through:
SUB-PART 5.1. First action line: A more dynamic governance of the science
and society relationship
Several activities relevant to the aims of the first Action Line have already been undertaken in
the Sixth Framework Programme in the areas of governance, ethics and scientific culture. It
is intended to capitalise on the results and outcome of the funded projects completed by 2007
and to go a step further towards a more democratic knowledge society. It involves a more
direct focus on social needs and interests and implies a move from current modes of citizens'
(public) involvement as consumers of research findings to richer forms of engagement of
citizens and of organised civil society in research and research based policies. In the first
year of the Seventh Framework Programme, this entails the need for capacity building, as
newcomers on the research scene, of civil society organisations, the initiation of new forms of
partnerships between researchers and others actors through 'co-operative research' and
preparatory actions to develop science and technology studies at European level.
In the overall context of ethical issues in Europe and internationally, there is a continuing
need to consider ethics in the fields of research, new technologies, science and academia in a
global context, in relation to governance issues, taking full account of the opinions and
concerns of European citizens. This work is closely associated with the implementation of the
Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union.
Activity 5.1.1. Better understanding of the place of science and technology
in society
Objectives 2007-2013: In order to address the relationship between science and society
through sound policies, the knowledge accumulated in the history, sociology and philosophy
of sciences needs to be expanded, consolidated and spread at European level. To this end,
scholars from these disciplines should form networks to structure research and debates
capable of revealing the real participation of science in building a European society and
identity, stressing in particular:
Area 5.1.1.1.
Research on relationships between science, democracy
and law
Topics
SiS-2007-1.1.1.1 - Revisiting the challenges of the interaction between science and
politics in the European knowledge-based society
Description of topic: Preparatory actions to harness the knowledge produced by history,
sociology, philosophy of sciences and science and technology studies (STS) into policy
practice. These should contribute to providing a contextualised perspective to analyse the
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relationships between science and society, within the EU and at international level, to offer
methods for trans-disciplinary and multidisciplinary analysis, including a historical
perspective, and to develop critical understandings of the dynamics of knowledge, science and
scientific uncertainty, perceptions, behaviour, conflicts of interest, power and decision
making. Possible activities may include the definition of a research agenda in this field,
seminars, pilot projects etc.
Funding scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating) and Co-ordination and
support actions (supporting)
Expected impact: This activity should allow the research community to formulate clear
policy messages on how to optimise the contribution of research to policies, in particular in
relation to sustainable development / growth and an increased congruence between political,
economic and social objectives. It should also allow the STS community to prepare for future
steps towards engaging in a significant joint research effort, foreseen in 2008 or 2009.
Area 5.1.1.2. Research on ethics in science and technology
Topics
Interdisciplinary research, to better explore the relationship between ethics, law and
science, to promote a common understanding between Member States
Description of Topics
SiS-2007-1.1.2.1 Ethical frameworks of new technologies
Research on appropriate ethical frameworks of new technologies; research on foresight of
ethical issues likely to emerge in the context of the societal embedding of new technologies.
Funding scheme: Collaborative research projects (small or medium-scale focused research
projects)
Expected impact: to contribute positively to the quality of research in the field of ethics of
new technologies and to the early identification of ethical issues and the effectiveness of EU
policy over the years 2007 2013.
SiS-2007-1.1.2.2 Research underpinning policy related to ethics, precaution and
sustainable development
Research underpinning policy at European and International levels, related to ethics,
precaution and sustainable development. More specifically: benefit sharing aspects of natural
and genetic resources; IPR and bioethics.
Funding scheme: Collaborative research projects (small or medium-scale focused research
projects)
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Expected Impact: A contribution to underpinning policy by recommendations resulting from
research at European and international levels over the years 2007-2013.
Area 5.1.1.3 Research on the reciprocal influence of science and culture
Topics
SiS-2007-1.1.3.1 - Action to establish a trans-disciplinary research community on science
and culture
Description of topic: The aim is to invite researchers and scholars from all disciplines, from
the natural sciences to social sciences and humanities, interested in the scientific dimension of
European cultural heritage, to establish an interdisciplinary community to analyse the role of
science in the building of a shared European culture. The objective in 2007 is to help
establish such a community by inviting these participants to form a coordinated and trans-
disciplinary grouping with the task of creating, an agenda of issues to address, a forum for
debate and policy recommendations. The themes to be studied will include the following:
ˇ The concepts of scientific culture, scientific literacy, public awareness of science, public
engagement with science
ˇ The creation of virtual science spaces on the Internet (e.g. using open-source / 'wiki'
approach) allowing the involvement of the non-professionals and promoting dialog with
society.
ˇ The role of citizens, professionals and non-professionals in the sharing of scientific
evidence and the design of good dissemination practices.
ˇ The collaboration of other professional groups (e.g. school teachers, curators, social
mediators and social workers) with scientists in the conduct of research, for
mainstreaming science into social life.
Next, the group will be invited to establish an agenda of issues to address and to convene a
Forum involving all actors concerned to exchange best practices, provide European added
value, and promote networking and synergies. Finally, the group should develop policy
recommendations.
It is expected that one co-ordination and support action will be funded.
Funding scheme: Co-ordination and support action (coordinating)
Expected Impact: (a) develop interactions and cooperation between actors from different
disciplines working on key topics regarding science and culture, giving added value to
existing research approaches. (b) Devise strategies to involve relevant communities,
stakeholders, practitioners in mainstreaming science into social life (c) produce policy
recommendations.
Area 5.1.1.4. The role and image of scientists
No actions foreseen in 2007
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Activity 5.1.2. Broader engagement to anticipate and clarify political,
societal and ethical issues
Area 5.1.2.1. Developing governance on science-related questions
Topics
Capacity building activities for civil society organisations and development of co-
operative research activities
Description of Topics:
This addresses two types of actions:
SiS-2007-1.2.1.1 CSO capacity building in research
Stimulating participation of civil society organisations (CSOs) in research activities: CSOs
which articulate the aspirations and concerns of sections of society show an increasing
interest in research activities and can provide complementary visions and knowledge in
domains such as sustainable development, food safety, public health and well-being,
renewable energy, discriminations, and conflict resolutions. However, to become effective
research actors in view of more comprehensive actions in the seventh Framework
Programme, they need capacity-building. The call proposes therefore to support CSOs
participation as coordinator or partners in activities which will prepare them for further
involvement in research. Activities may cover:
ˇ Identifying and discussing topics and opportunities for future research initiatives.
ˇ Mapping and assessing previous research activities in relation to CSOs needs and interests.
ˇ Exploration of possible forms of cooperation with research centres and other research
stakeholders.
In the context of this Work Programme, civil society organisations are considered to be any
legal entity that is non governmental, not-for-profit, not representing commercial interests,
and pursuing a common purpose in the public interest
Funding scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating) and Co-ordination and
support actions (supporting)
Expected Impact: Increase the ability of civil society organisations to participate in research
activities in the different fields covered by the Seventh Framework Programme
SiS-2007-1.2.1.2 Co-operative research processes
Initiation of co-operative research processes at European level. These processes result from
the partnership of researchers and non-researchers, including notably policy makers, citizens
and CSOs. These actors choose to combine their skills, knowledge and understanding of an
issue, in order to produce concrete solutions and/or substantiate options for further
development. The issue at stake can be either of local or global societal relevance (e.g. health,
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environment, fisheries, agriculture etc.), but it needs to be sufficiently precisely defined in
order to allow for an engagement of the different stakeholders in the process.
Funding Scheme: Collaborative research projects (small or medium-scale focused research
projects); and Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating) and Co-ordination and
support actions (supporting)
Expected Impact: Stimulate and test the use of co-operative research at European level in
fields of societal interest
SiS-2007-1.2.1.3 - Pairing scheme for scientists and Members of the European
Parliament
Description of topic: If policy makers can be brought into closer contact with scientists and
researchers, they will be able to better understand the environment in which scientists operate,
and therefore the relationship between scientific advice and policy making. This action aims
to create ten pairings between Members of the European Parliament and scientists/researchers
from Member States and associated countries. The action will pay for the costs of the
scientists' participation. Each pairing will consist of a one-week placement. These will be
evaluated at a workshop in Brussels bringing together all of the participants.
Action in this topic will be launched through public procurement
Indicative budget: EUR 0,05 million
Expected impact: Greater awareness on the part of both European Parliamentarians and
scientists of each other's methodologies, priorities and constraints, particularly as regards the
relationship between research and policy-making
Area 5.1.2.2 Conditions for an informed debate on ethics and science
Topics
Creation of and support to pan-European platforms
Description of Topics:
SiS-2007-1.2.2.1 European Ethics Documentation Centre
Create an inter-connected European information and documentation system to promote
critical debate on issues of major significance in ethics and science. The system should
include appropriate links to international organisations, notably UNESCO, the Council of
Europe and the OECD Group on Preventing Scientific Misconduct.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
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Expected impact: contribute to the progressive creation of a European information system on
ethics and science during the period 2007-2013.
SiS-2007-1.2.2.2 - Forum of National Ethics Councils
Support for the networking of national Ethics Councils. This support will encourage further
cooperation and consultation between the national Ethics Councils and the European
Commission on the most topical issues in research ethics. This action will be supported by the
use of SINAPSE.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected impact: A better coordination and collaboration between national actors on
important ethical issues of European significance, which can be expected during the period
2007-2013
SiS-2007-1.2.2.3 - Ethics and security research
Promote a pan-European discussion on ethical aspects of dual use (e.g. potential use for
military purposes and/or potential use by terrorists) and security-related research, focusing in
particular on biometric technologies. Activities will include studies; the creation of networks
and of a panel of experts; international dialogue, and the organisation of a major conference.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected impact: to contribute to the promotion of international discussion on ethical aspects
of dual use and security-related research.
SiS-2007-1.2.2.4 - International dialogue: capacity building in developing countries
Description of topic: Existing networks of experts and initiatives in the field of ethics and
science within developing countries (international cooperation partner countries) and
emerging economies often lack coordination, sustainability or possibilities to implement best
practices. This call intends to develop capacity building, including development and support
to regional networks of experts, covering Africa (ACP), Latin America, Eastern Europe and
Central Asia (EECA), and Asia (in particular India or China). The activities will primarily
aim at helping developing countries to build up their own best practices in the field of ethics
and science, and ensuring that European research conducted in developing countries
(international cooperation partner countries) will comply with fundamental ethical principles.
Please refer to Call Fiche 1 for specific participation criteria for this topic.
Funding schemes: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected Impact: The overall impact should be facilitating targeted partner countries to
bring science closer to society and, equally, to benefit from their own experience. Over the
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years 2007-2013, one can expect the strengthening of international and regional networks in
the field of ethics and science, the further development of international standards concerning
ethical research practices worldwide, the implementation of best practices in developing
countries and emerging economies, the compliance with fundamental ethical principles and
the requirements for ethical review of research project under the Seventh Framework
Programme.
The following Cross-Thematic Activities will be implemented in 2007
Area 5.1.2.3 CROSS THEMATIC ACTIVITIES "ENVIRONMENT and
ENERGY" and "NANOTECHNOLOGIES".
SiS-2007-1.2.3.1-CT - Framing deliberative processes fostering sustainable consumption
and production at the intersection between environment and energy.
As underlined in the June 2006 revision of the European Union Sustainable Development
Strategy, the main challenge facing the European Union is to "gradually change our current
unsustainable consumption and production patterns and the non-integrated approach to
policy-making". Therefore, during 2007, the Research Directorate General will stimulate a
European reflection aiming to improve sustainable consumption and production through more
inclusive science governance in the relevant policy fields.
The following activities may notably be funded under the present "Science in Society" theme:
Topic:
Workshops prepared jointly by a set of relevant actors among researchers,
policy makers, citizens, ethicists and civil society organisations (CSOs) which will combine
their skills, knowledge and understanding. The workshops will aim to discuss the nature and
importance of factors limiting the sustainability of current consumption and production
patterns in the long run, to identify specific areas which could benefit from research
undertaken with CSOs and to frame deliberative processes where relevant to support
sustainable consumption and production. The proposals should include detailed
content/agenda of the planned workshops. Depending on the results of the workshops and on
the main assets of ongoing research, further action could take place in 2008.
Funding scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating) and Co-ordination and
support actions (supporting)
Expected impact: The results of these workshops would contribute to a better
implementation of the renewed European Union Sustainable Development Strategy. The
subsequent launch of targeted co-operative research processes11 over the years 2009-2013
would ease the design and implementation of society-friendly agendas, as well as the
dissemination of the resulting scientific and technological knowledge. This work would also
contribute to strengthening the societal dimension of the preparation and implementation of
the strategies elaborated in the Energy and Environment-related Technology Platforms.
11 Understood, as indicated earlier in the text, as a research process aiming as much at the harmonious societal
integration of new scientific and technological knowledge as to achieving the specific objective of the research
itself.
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SiS-2007-1.2.3.2-CT - Framing the deliberative process on the responsible development
of Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies (NS&T)
In order to develop a special focus on European nanosciences and nanotechnologies, actions
will be carried out during 2007 as a complement to the Cooperation Programme
"Nanosciences, nanotechnologies, materials and new production technologies". The
following activities may be funded under this "Science in Society" theme:
Topic: A deliberative process inviting researchers, policy makers, citizens, ethicists and
CSOs to combine their skills, knowledge and understanding in an attempt to provide a
societal framework for a responsible development of NS&T in the European Union, and
allowing for an international dialogue notably through future ad-hoc co-operative research
processes. This deliberative process will be informed and submitted to analysis by STS
researchers and ethicists.
The activity will consist of all of the following elements:
- Analysis of deliberative processes and procedures at European level on the responsible
development of NS&T;
- Identification of needs and interests of NGOs and other civil society institutions to
engage actively in deliberative processes and procedures on the development of NS&T;
- Design of possible deliberative processes and procedures for a responsible development
of NS&T in the European Union and beyond.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating) and Co-ordination and
support actions (supporting)
Expected Impact: Articulate consensus and absence of consensus between the various
stakeholders involved in the process, sustain a European debate between them, and produce
new knowledge and recommendations for future research, policy actions, deliberative
processes and procedures and co-operative research processes over the years 2009-2013.
Activity 5.1.3. Strengthening and improving the European science
system
Objectives for 2007-2013: Society's aspirations and concerns, and fundamental ethical
principles, need to be better integrated throughout the research process, creating a more
secure and constructive environment for researchers and for society as a whole. Three
aspects of broad significance, focusing on the actors and dynamics of the European Research
Area, will be tackled.
Area 5.1.3.1.
Encouraging the debate on information dissemination,
including access to scientific results and the future of
scientific publications.
No actions foreseen in 2007
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Area 5.1.3.2
Increasing trust and supporting self-regulation in the
scientific community
a) Lisbon Conference on Ethics (Grant to a named recipient): A major conference on the
topic of Research Integrity will be held in September 2007 in Lisbon, in cooperation with the
Portuguese Presidency of the EU (Ministry of Science, Technology and Higher Education),
the European Science Foundation and the US Office of Research Integrity. It will look not
only at current cases of misconduct but also, more importantly, at pressures on the research
system as well as questionable research methods. The involvement of the Global Science
Forum of the OECD, editors from science journals, research institutes, policymakers, ethics
committees, and other interested groups is foreseen. Around 200 people from all over the
world will attend. Through the exchange of ideas at international level, it will contribute to
the establishment of best practices on research integrity.
Grant to a named recipient (European Science Foundation)
Indicative budget: EUR 0,15 million
Area 5.1.3.3
Improving the use of scientific advice and expertise for
policy-making in Europe, and developing practical tools
and schemes (e.g. electronic networks)
Topics
SiS-2007-1.3.3.1 - E-network SINAPSE (Scientific INformAtion for Policy Support in
Europe)
Description of Topic: Maintenance of SINAPSE and enhancement of its functionalities,
ergonomics and infrastructure. As regards the network development, efforts during the first
registration phase focused on the building of a substantial membership including a sufficient
number of important scientific organisations. The second phase will be dedicated to the
registration of the main experts within these organisations, the increase of awareness about
SINAPSE tools' potential within and outside its current membership and the stimulation of
activities (e.g. creation of e-communities) and content upload.
Action in this topic will be launched through public procurement
Indicative budget EUR 0,8 million
Expected Impact: SINAPSE is designed to promote a better use of scientific information and
expertise in policy making and facilitate the emergence of new forms of governance by
offering the possibility to easily involve a wide range of relevant actors. It is an instrument
that supports the implementation of the Commission's Better Regulation package as regards
the use of expertise. SINAPSE aims to build the "European yellow pages" of expertise,
offering easier access to scientific experts/organisations and giving these actors the possibility
to easily create thematic e-communities for mutual information and cooperation purposes.
The different communication tools should progressively help strengthen the existing
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EU/national advisory processes by enabling a mobilisation of a wider knowledge stock. It
should also, by increasing the dissemination of already issued scientific advice, increase its
use and impact.
Expert Contracts
i)
Expert review of projects funded under the Sixth Framework Programme
looking into the societal dimension of energy technologies: based on a results analysis of
the projects, organisation of a workshop on "GoverScience Energy" bringing together
researchers, policy makers and representatives of civil society organisations.
Funding Scheme: Coordination and support action (expert contract)
Expected impact: This expert review will help Commission services to better position their
activities for the period 2008-2013 through a proper policy framing.
ii)
`Learning Institutions' expert review: Training scheme for policy officers (based
on the model developed by the Sixth Framework Programme funded projects such as
CIPAST, DOTIK and DECIDE): in support of the specific cross-thematic partnerships in
"Nanosciences and nanotechnologies" and "Energy and Environment" there is a need to draw
the attention of policy officers to the conceptual and practical developments in the field of
governance of research and research based policies. Experts in pedagogy and communication
will be solicited to introduce the rationale and aims of co-operative research processes.
Funding Scheme: Coordination and support action (expert contract)
Expected impact: Uptake of new governance concepts and skills by policy makers will
improve policy making and delivery by European institutions.
Activity 5.1.4 The evolving role of universities
Objectives 2007-2013: University-based research plays a crucial role in the development of a
European Knowledge-based Society. The actions under this heading support, at the European
level, the ongoing process of reform of European universities, in line with the May 2006
Communication "Delivering on the Modernisation agenda for Universities: Education,
Research and Innovation" COM (2006) 208 of 10 May 2006. They will be carried out in
cooperation with the ongoing activities launched by DG EAC on the follow-up to this
Communication, complementing them from the university-based research angle.
Defining better framework conditions for more efficient university research
Promoting the establishment of structured partnerships with the business sector, having
regard to universities' research management capacities
Reinforcing knowledge sharing between universities and society at large
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The following activities are proposed to meet the objectives of the three above-mentioned
Areas:
a) Presidency Conference on University-based Research
The forthcoming Portuguese Presidency has placed universities as one of their top priorities.
Therefore, a major conference will be held in autumn 2007 in Portugal, organised by the
Portuguese Ministry for Science, Technology and Higher Education, in close cooperation
with the European Commission, the European University Association and other partners such
as the League of European Research Universities (LERU) and the European Industrial
Research Management Association (EIRMA). It will look into the areas for action addressing
the challenges identified in the Communication: Delivering on the Modernisation Agenda for
Universities: Education, Research and Innovation12, tackling them from the perspective of
university-based research.
The involvement of a wide range of rectors, policy makers in the respective Ministries dealing
with the Higher Education Sector, representatives from industry and research organisations as
well as researchers is foreseen. Around 250 people from these areas will attend.
Financed by a grant to named recipient (Portuguese Ministry for Science, Technology
and Higher Education) - indicative budget: EUR 0,15 million
Expected impact: This conference will take stock of the progress made since the adoption of
the Communication, and serve as an opportunity to exchange best practice and first results of
the work proposed for the two experts groups described below. It will also take stock on
progress made by the Member States when implementing the necessary reforms in the context
of the National Reform Programmes of the renewed Lisbon strategy. During the Presidency,
the outcomes of the conference will also be reported back at the appropriate level in the
Council and serve as a basis for identifying additional actions needed to take the modernising
agenda for universities further.
b) The establishment of University-based Research (UBR) expert groups.
As announced in the Communication: Delivering on the Modernisation Agenda for
Universities: Education, Research and Innovation, the Commission is not a direct actor in the
modernisation of universities, but it can play a catalytic role, providing political impetus and
targeted funding in support of reform and modernisation.
To this end, starting from 2007, a limited number of University-based Research (UBR) expert
groups involving a variety of stakeholders coming from universities, the business community,
research organisation, etc, will be set up.
The aim of the expert groups is to analyse the issues, identify options and good practices and
provide recommendations to the Commission for action. In 2007 the following expert groups
will be set up:
12 (COM 208 final of 10/05/2006)
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Group 1: Diversified funding streams for university-based research including the issue of the
different accounting systems for research activities in place in European universities and their
impact on funding university-based research.
Group 2: Different approaches and methodologies for institutional evaluation, profiling and
ranking of university-based research, with a view to identifying a framework and tools to
appraise the evolution, quality, efficiency and effectiveness of university based research in
Europe.
Funding Scheme: Coordination and support actions (expert contracts)
Expected impact: The meetings of the university-based research working groups organised
during 2007 will serve to pave the way for the creation of a European Platform on University-
based Research to exchange best practices, collect data in order to measure, monitor and
assess the research performance of universities, and provide policy input in support of better
and stronger UBR in Europe. By offering a forum for exchange of best practice and for the
identification of innovation solutions the EU level can offer genuine added value, and
formulate recommendations to be discussed at the different appropriate levels (Member States
and associated countries, stakeholders) The Commission will through this exercise also
facilitate dialogue between universities, the business community, social partners and research
organisations.
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SUB-PART 5.2. Second action line: Strengthening potential, broadening
horizons
Projects relevant to the aims of the second Action Line have already been undertaken in Sixth
Framework Programme in the areas of Women and Science and Science Education. It is
intended to capitalise on the results and outcome of those projects completed by 2007 in
order to create synergies with the relevant actions under this Work Programme.
Activity 5.2.1. Gender and research
Objectives 2007-2013: The Seventh Framework Programme demands active promotion of the
role of women in scientific research. The objective is to boost gender equality in research,
through stimulating the participation of women in science and technological development;
and fostering the integration of the gender dimension throughout European Research. This
will be done both through gender mainstreaming the Framework Programme and through
specific activities. In particular, the Science in Society part of the Capacities programme will
contribute to the promotion of women researchers and the promotion of gender equality in
European Research. Actions will be based on the knowledge gained through the collection
and analysis of sex-disaggregated data since 1999. In the light of progress already achieved, a
number of new and continuing priorities can now be identified for future action both at
Commission and member state levels. In terms of the participation of women in science, the
objectives need to be more narrowly focused, to concentrate essentially on certain disciplines
or fields (engineering, entrepreneurship, innovation and technology) or levels (senior and
decision-making positions). Areas of action will include gender issues in the definition and
measurement of scientific excellence. Furthermore, the role of men in realising progress
towards gender equality in science will be examined more closely with a view to better
understanding the mechanisms involved, and measures to encourage men to participate
actively in promoting gender equality in science will be envisaged. Attention will be given to
raising awareness within the scientific community, in the general public and among policy
makers. Benchmarking and monitoring will continue to underpin the whole range of actions
undertaken.
Area 5.2.1.1. Strengthening the role of women in scientific research
Two distinct activities are developed: firstly the monitoring of participation, which relies
heavily on the production and availability of statistics and, secondly, development of
mechanisms to support women researchers.
Topics
SiS-2007-2.1.1.1 - Survey of positive action schemes in the area of Research Decision-
making
Description of Topic: An expert group looking at positive actions to increase the numbers of
women in research decision making was established in 2006. The findings of this group will
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be complemented by a comparative study, including literature review and data analysis, on
positive action schemes at institutional and national levels to increase the number of women
in public research decision-making in Europe and selected non-European countries, with
active participation of experts from these countries. Please refer to Call Fiche 1 for specific
participation criteria for this topic.
Target countries: USA, Canada and Australia
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected Impact: Targeted dissemination of new knowledge base of positive action schemes
in the area of research decision-making. The Commission and Member States and associated
countries can develop the most appropriate actions for Europe in the years to come.
Area 5.2.1.2 Gender Dimension of Research
Topics
SiS-2007-2.1.2.1 - Meta analysis of gender and science research
Description of Topic: A meta-analysis will be undertaken of gender and science research
made at national and European level on the following topics: (i) horizontal segregation
("choice" issues, causes, perception of SET by girls, etc), (ii) vertical segregation (why few
women scientists reach top level positions, glass ceiling, sticky floor, etc.) and (iii) underlying
segregation causes and effects (work life balance, pay gap, mobility-related obstacles, etc.).
This exercise has several purposes: to get an overview of existing knowledge on these issues
in order to compare and summarise the information and to highlight best practices existing in
Europe.
The study should include a secondary data collection, a literature review, a compendium of
specific initiatives implemented at national, regional and institutional level (mentoring or
tutoring programmes, supportive initiatives, etc.) and an analysis of their effectiveness. The
analysis should be tailored to the needs of policy makers, providing them with readily useable
instruments and methodologies. It should provide on an annual basis a report describing in a
concise and synthetic way currently ongoing research and at the end of the project all research
since 1980 should have been covered. The research projects and studies analysed should be
accessible through a database, which at the end of the project shall be made publicly available.
This study may be followed by a similar one covering the private sector in 2008.
Action in this topic will be launched through public procurement
Indicative budget EUR 2,0 million
Expected impact: To identify blank spots where more research or coordination is needed,
and to prepare the ground for sound policy-making based on scientific grounds.
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Area 5.2.1.3 Mainstreaming gender in Community research policy and
programmes
Topics
SiS-2007-2.1.3.1 - Help desk for Gender Mainstreaming
Description of topic: Establish a help desk with training and information packs for project
officers, coordinators and evaluators regarding gender mainstreaming in the Seventh
Framework Programme.
Action in this topic will be launched through public procurement
Indicative budget EUR 0,7 million
Expected Impact: To increase gender awareness among project applicants, coordinators
scientific officers, evaluators and National Contact Points on all aspects of gender
mainstreaming through information, training and support to researchers.
Grant to named recipients
a) 14th International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists - By co-funding this
international event, the Commission intends to give the greatest possible visibility to
European-based activities on women in engineering and technologies. Results obtained by
initiatives and projects funded at European and/or national level will be presented to a
worldwide forum for discussion. The ICWES-14 will take place in Lille, France in 2008.
Grant to a named recipient - indicative budget: EUR 0,1 million
Expert Contracts
a) Women in Science and Technology (WiST) working group
Following the positive experience with a previous working group constituted of academics
and multinational companies, the European Commission will create a new working group
composed by companies, experts and higher education institutions focusing on the promotion
of a working environment, which allows both women and men scientists to combine family
and work, children/private life and career. Special focus will be made on the industrial
research sector. Efforts would be made to involve men in the discussion on dual careers and
work life balance.
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The working group will identify best practices existing in Europe and will assess the measures
optimising work-life balance. In cooperation with higher education institutions, initiatives will
be identified to better tackle the low interest and high drop-out rate of women in the
engineering and technology sectors.
Funding Scheme: Coordination and support actions (expert contracts)
Expected impact: To create guidelines for companies and public sector institutions who
intend to optimise their human resources development strategies. To encourage the
implementation of better work-life balance measures for researchers.
b) Expert Group on Gender and Excellence
To maintain autonomy and ensure scientific excellence, research decision-making should be
based on meritocracy and individual scientific achievements. Scientific excellence, however,
is not an absolute term but a composite of several determinants: originality, publications
innovative force etc. Gender studies of research policy presented in the report "Gender and
Excellence in the Making" have revealed that the term "excellence" as applied today may
hinder women in establishing scientific careers. The discourse on "excellence" needs to be
reframed in such a way as to include all scientists, regardless of gender.
Some research has been done on "Gender and Excellence", but the results have not yet been
widely disseminated and have not been conclusive. This new expert group will focus on
gender issues in the definition and measurement of scientific excellence. Evaluation systems
and parameters of excellence employed in a researcher's career chain will be explored from a
gender perspective and recommendations will be made.
The outcome of two conferences held in the last quarter of 2006 could be used as a starting
point for the expert group, along with the conclusions from the report "Gender and Excellence
in the Making".
Funding Scheme: Coordination and support actions (expert contracts)
Expected Impact: The expert group is expected to develop and disseminate
recommendations on how to improve the situation, which in turn will raise awareness of this
issue in the scientific community and among research policy makers in Europe.
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Activity 5.2.2. Young people and science
Objectives 2007-2013: To contribute to the Lisbon agenda by increasing the number of young
people from all backgrounds entering careers in science, research and technology; and, by
raising the general level of scientific literacy to increase awareness of the societal impact of
science.
Area 5.2.2.1.
Supporting formal and informal science education in
schools as well as through science centres and museums
and other relevant means
Topics
SiS-2007-2.2.1.1 - Links between science education and research
Description of topic: Given the rapid pace of scientific and technological development,
teachers need more support in terms of advice, training and resources needed to deconstruct
complex systems into teaching subjects that can be related to basic scientific laws or theories.
Moreover, researchers need to develop skills in communicating to non-specialists including
the younger population. Actions will be aimed at reinforcing links between schools,
universities research organisations and industry; at reinforcing the connection between
science and its development through research; and at highlighting the relevance of science to
cultural and societal development.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected impact: To bring about a change in perception among young people as to what
science is and how scientific progress arises; to strengthen the links between science
education and research, to improve communication and the development of resources
material; to improve the exchange of knowledge and know-how at the European level
between science teachers and the research community, and to provide mechanisms (such as
seminars, workshops and conferences) that bring together a broad range of key players.
SiS-2007-2.2.1.2 - Teaching Methods
Description of topic: Actions for promoting the use of context and inquiry-based science
teaching techniques; actions for bridging the gap between the science education research
community and science teachers to facilitate the uptake of new science teaching methods.
Falling interest in key science topics and mathematics has been linked to the way they are
taught from the earliest age. Greater emphasis needs to be placed on the development of
analytical skills, and on techniques for stimulating intrinsic motivation for learning science.
Context-based learning in which the relevance of science is highlighted and inquiry-based
techniques to stimulate the formulation of ideas and their testing through direct
experimentation have been shown to be effective in stimulating interest in science but need to
be developed and implemented more widely. In a more general context, better links need to
be established between the science education research community, curricula developers and
practitioners (teachers and educators). Account needs to be taken of the development of key
resources, training requirements and the involvement of parents and other relevant actors.
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Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected Impact: To bring about a change in the way that science is taught in schools
through European collaborative activities that take techniques that have been successfully
piloted and adapting and applying them on a significantly greater scale. The actions must
include an element of independent evaluation as well as providing a convincing plan for the
regular dissemination of progress and know-how to special interest groups (e.g. parents'
associations, teachers' networks, curricula developers, and policy-makers). To improve the
exchange of knowledge and know-how at the European level between practitioners, the
science education research community and policy makers, and to provide mechanisms (such
as seminars, workshops and conferences) that bring together a broad range of key players.
Area 5.2.2.2 Reinforcing links between science education and science
careers
Topics
SiS-2007-2.2.2.1 - Images of Science
Description of topic: Actions to combat stereotypical images of science and scientists; to
promote interest in science among young people and to promote realistic role models. Special
attention should be paid to gender specific differences and to the needs of young people from
disadvantaged, under-represented or underperforming groups. Narrow images of scientists (as
portrayed through the popular media for example) need to be broadened to become more
representative in order to appeal to young people from a diversity of background. Actions will
involve collaboration at European level.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected Impact: To contribute to developing models and methodologies to increase the
number of young people studying science at school; to bring about a change in how young
people as individuals relate to science and their perception of careers in science; to improve
the quality of information aimed at teachers and parents as regards science careers; to improve
the exchange of knowledge and know-how at the European level between initiatives and
programmes that aim at combating stereotypes and prompting broader participation in science
among young people science. The actions must include an element of independent evaluation
SiS-2007-2.2.2.2 - Europa Diary
Description of Topic: Europa Diary: Wise Choices? is an initiative of DG SANCO to
provide information about consumer and health issues to secondary school students. In the
2007/2008 edition, DG RTD is going to include four pages on research topics.
A total of 1.610.690 copies of the Diary will be distributed among secondary school students
in Member States and associated countries with the accompanying Teacher's Guide.
DG RTD will contribute the amount of 120,960 to the cost of graphics, editorial, translation
and localisation of texts, printing and distribution, which will be done under an existing
Framework contract (SANCO / 2005 /B1 /021) awarded to Fondation Génération Europe.
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This amount will cover the cost of 72.000 additional copies of the Diary and 2.880 teachers'
manuals.
Action in this topic will be launched through public procurement
Indicative budget EUR 0,121 million
Expected Impact: To contribute to raising the profile of European research among secondary
school pupils in all of the Member States and associated countries by showing some results of
European research (solar energy, reducing automobile emissions, the oceans) in a language
attractive to students and providing a springboard for classroom discussion of scientific
research by means of the Teacher's Guide.
5.2.2.3. Research and coordination actions on new methods in science
education
No actions foreseen in 2007
Grants to named recipients
a) European Union Contest for Young Scientists: The European Union Contest for Young
Scientists brings together winners of pre-university school science projects from across
Europe to compete for prizes and awards. The Contest is based on national competitions and
takes place each year in a different location. It will be implemented in 2007 through a direct
grant to the University of Valencia. The Contest provides additional stimulus to young people
who have already demonstrated that they are applying science to solve problems. Many go on
to become successful scientists. It attracts a considerable level of co-funding in the host
country, and high levels of international media attention. International research organisation
and similar bodies donate many of the non-cash prizes.
Grant to a named recipient - indicative budget: EUR 0,439 million
b) Foundation Lindau meeting of Nobel laureates and young scientists
The Foundation Lindau supports the annual meeting with around 20 Nobel Prize winners in
Lindau. Students come from all over the world to listen to the Laureates' lectures and
participate in discussions. With the aim of promoting contact and dialogue between
distinguished scientists (as 'role-models') and aspiring young scientists, the direct grant to the
Foundation Lindau will be used to help finance the expenses of young European students and
scientists to attend the Lindau meeting.
Grant to a named recipient - indicative budget: EUR 0,05 million
Expert Contracts
a) Expert reviews on examples of the adaptation of information on emerging issues for
science teaching.
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To highlight examples where researchers and teachers have collaborated on developing
material on topical research issues, such as in the areas of space, nanotechnology, energy,
biotechnology, and energy, for use in the classroom.
Funding Scheme: Coordination and support action (expert contract)
Expected impact: Through highlighting the benefits to students, teachers and scientists of
joint projects that bring topical science issues into the classroom, the examples identified will
provide inspiration for new collaboration.
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SUB-PART 5.3. Third action line: Science and society communicate
Projects relevant to the aims of the third Action Line have already been undertaken under the
Sixth Framework Programme, mainly in the areas of the exchange of user-friendly
information products and audio-visual co-productions on science and research. It is intended
to capitalise on the results and outcome of those projects completed by 2007 in order to
create synergies with the relevant actions under this Work Programme.
Objectives 2007-2013: Activities will contribute to addressing the ambiguous feelings
expressed by citizens regarding knowledge of and the potential benefits from science and
technology. They will also help fight the perceived isolation of the world of science from the
everyday realities of Europeans by promoting effective two-way communication channels:
providing a wider public with more scientific information and enabling the public to engage
with scientists. A specific focus will be given to the role of the media in this regard,
approached in their role as one voice of society's expectations, concerns and interests. A
closer dialogue with them will be promoted, including the exchange of best practice between
scientists and media professionals. In addition, some of the funded activities will be requested
to provide the public with tools to express its views on science. The effort will focus on six
aspects
Area 5.3.0.1
Provision of reliable and timely EU research information
to the scientific press
No actions foreseen in 2007
Area 5.3.0.2
Training actions to bridge the gap between the media and
the scientific community
No actions foreseen in 2007
Area 5.3.0.3
Encouraging a European dimension at science events
targeting the public
Topic
SiS-2007-3.0.3.1 - Actions to encourage co-operation and networking between science
museums, science centres and/or the organisers of national and regional events, e.g. by
creating synergies to conceive and exchange ambitious and interactive exhibitions on
European research topics
Description of topic: Science museums and science centres in Europe have been developing
valuable know-how in communicating science to the public through interactive exhibitions
which address the interests and concerns of citizens. Moreover, they have developed valuable
experience in associating science concepts with citizens' debates and participative democracy
tools. More synergies are needed, however, between these key actors to develop ambitious
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projects at the European level. The Commission invites the science museums and science
centres to choose topics of particular interest to European citizens (e.g. health, energy after oil,
climate change) and to engage in particular with citizens and civil society organisations in the
framework of the project.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating)
Expected impact: to enlarge the public at the European level when communicating science
with exhibitions; to permit the public to express its views and questions on these science and
research topics; to contribute to greater visibility of European research and researchers by
bringing together the experience and tools of science centres and museums.
Area 5.3.04
Promotion of science by audio-visual means via European
co-productions and the circulation of science
programmes
a) Grant to a named recipient: grant to the European Broadcasting Union, contributing
to the objectives of area 5.3.0.4
The EBU groups all European public broadcasters, as well as a number of independent
producers. The EBU has launched over the past few years an ambitious programme of co-
productions reinforcing the presence of science on EU screens. Sharing common objectives
with the EBU in this field, the Commission launched in 2006 a pilot phase to develop science
co-productions with the EBU. Building on this pilot phase, the EBU has proposed to launch
an initiative called "Science in Europe 2020, (with an estimated overall budget of 4 million).
This project, to be coordinated by the EBU, should include, inter alia:
ˇ the co-production of a package of a minimum of 24 high quality 26 minute programmes
focused on European science, targeting larger audiences, with guaranteed diffusion across
Europe,
ˇ the development of innovative EU science "formats" and other modular programmes for
adaptation to different linguistic markets,
ˇ the development of a professional exchange platform for science programmes,
ˇ the integration of new distribution platforms in the conception programmes, to reach
younger audiences
It is proposed that the Commission contribute to this project, as a minority co-producer to a
maximum level of 25%. This contribution will be conditional on the EBU raising the
remaining 75% with its other partners, and on the programmes being actually broadcast by a
pre-defined minimum number of broadcasters. As a counterpart for the Commission
contribution, a number of rights will be negotiated and full visibility of the Commission and
EU scientists involved contractually guaranteed.
Grant to a named recipient - indicative budget: EUR 1,0 million
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Area 5.3.0.5
Promotion of excellent trans-national research and
science communication by the means of popular prizes
SiS-2007-3.0.5.1 European Research Awards: Descartes prizes for transnational
collaborative research
SiS-2007-3.0.5.2 European Research Awards: Prizes for science communication
Description of Topic: The European Research Awards have been created with a view to
contributing to the Community policy which aims to stimulate European collaborative
research, ensuring the general public's interest and understanding of its results. The European
Research Awards complement each other and serve as a major awareness-raising tool.
Making good science and communicating it efficiently are indeed essential ingredients in
developing the European knowledge society.
The annual European Research Awards are a public recognition of outstanding achievements
in (i) transnational collaborative research (Descartes prizes) and in (ii) science communication,
The prizes are awarded respectively as follows:
(i) SiS-2007-3.0.5.1 European Research Awards - Descartes prizes for transnational
collaborative research: Prizes will be awarded to transnational teams that have achieved
outstanding scientific or technological results from European collaborative research in any
field of science, including the economic, social and human sciences. Each proposal received
in response to this call will be allocated by the Grand Jury to one of four categories which will
cover the various fields of science. In principle, in each of these categories one prize will be
awarded, and one finalist selected. Proposals may be submitted by the research teams
themselves, or by research organisations and institutions.
(ii) SiS-2007-3.0.5.2 European Research Awards - Prizes for science communication: Prizes
awarded to organisations or individuals that have achieved outstanding results in science
communication and which have been selected as winners of awards by European and/or
national organisations. In principle, prizes will be awarded in the following categories:
ˇ The communicator of the year: scientists or professionals engaged in communicating
science to the public.
ˇ The writer of the year: popularising science through the written word (e.g. newspaper
articles, popular science books, editorial policies, innovative actions).
ˇ The audiovisual documentary of the year: popularising science through audiovisual and
electronic media (e.g. scientific television or radio documentaries, websites, editorial
policies, innovative actions).
Proposals must be submitted by the organisation which has awarded the prize to the
candidate.
NB: For all of the above mentioned prizes, there can be not more than one laureate per
category and not more than one finalist per category.
Funding Scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (supporting)
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
Expected Impact: Increased standards and prestige of European collaborative research and
of Science communication. Greater awareness among scientists of the importance of science
communication. Better understanding of European research and of European research policies
by the scientific and science communication communities. Increased knowledge about
scientific research and science communication by the public at large. Feed the public debate
on scientific research issues. Encourage scientific careers. Entice young people to an
increased interest in science.
Area 5.3.06
Research aimed at enhancing science communication in
its methods and its products.
Topic
SiS-2007-3.0.6.1 - Cultural differences in Europe related to the relationship of the public
with TV and radio science programmes.
Description of Topic: Research to gather data from Member States and associated countries
and to provide an analysis of how Europeans, according to their nationality, gender, socio-
cultural background (including young people), perceive existing audiovisual science
programmes. The objective is to identify the reasons why different sections of the European
public are satisfied or not with what is currently offered in this field. Where the public are
unsatisfied, the study should identify what is missing and what their precise expectations are
towards science programmes on TV and radio (topics, formats ...).
Funding Scheme: Collaborative research projects (small or medium-scale focused research
projects) please note the indicative budget for this topic is estimated at EUR 500.000.
Expected Impact: The outcome of this research should help the Commission in developing
its policy of partnerships with audiovisual professionals to communicate science at the
European level.
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
SUB-PART 5.4. Fourth Action Line: Strategic activities
Area 5.4.0.1
Trans-national co-operation among National Contact
Points (NCPs) for Science in Society
SiS-2007-4.0.1.1 Transnational cooperation among the National Contact Points (NCPs)
for Science in Society
Description of Topic: Reinforcing the network of National Contact Points (NCP) for the
Seventh Framework Programme under Science in Society, by promoting trans-national co-
operation. The action will focus on identifying and sharing good practice. This may entail
various mechanisms such as benchmarking, joint workshops, training, and twinning schemes.
Practical initiatives to benefit cross-border audiences may also be included, such as trans-
national brokerage events.
Special attention will be given to helping less experienced NCPs rapidly acquire the know-
how accumulated in other countries.
Proposals are expected to include all NCPs who have been officially appointed by the relevant
national authorities. Other participants from the EU and associated countries are ineligible. If
certain NCPs wish to abstain from participating, this fact should be explicitly documented in
the proposal.
The action may also involve official FP7 contacts from the international cooperation partner
countries.
The Commission expects to receive a single proposal under this heading.
Funding scheme: Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating) - indicative budget 1.2
million for the 2007 budget (for a proposal for a project with a duration of two years).
Expected impact:
ˇ An improved NCP service across Europe, therefore helping simplify access to FP7
calls, lowering the entry barriers for newcomers, and raising the average quality of
submitted proposals.
ˇ A more consistent level of NCP support services across Europe.
ˇ More effective participation of organisations from third countries, alongside European
organisations, in line with the principle of mutual benefit.
Area 5.4.0.2 Ad hoc advisory groups and other structures
The Commission will continue to examine and validate its objectives and identify new policy
directions with the help of ad hoc advisory groups and other structures, including the Helsinki
Group on Women in Science.
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
The Helsinki Group on Women and Science was set up in 1999 by the European Commission
to bring together national representatives. It aims to promote the participation and equality of
women in the sciences on a Europe-wide basis. Meeting twice a year, it provides an important
forum for dialogue on national policies and, recognising the value of networking and mutual
support among women scientists, the group also helps explore the ways in which the
potential, skills and expertise of women could best be secured and shares and compares
experiences. The Helsinki Group also helps the Commission build a clear picture of the
situation on the ground at national level, and members have produced national reports on the
situation of women scientists in their respective countries. The work of the Helsinki Group
will continue with two meetings in 2007 (bringing together 34 representatives), at a cost of
approximately EUR 0,1 million.
Action in this topic will be launched through public procurement
Indicative budget EUR 0,1 million
Area 5.4.0.3
Operation of the European Research Advisory Board (EURAB): The programme will
support the work of EURAB in the performance of its tasks to advise the Commission on the
design and implementation of Community policy in research and technological development,
and in particular on the realisation of the European Research Area. The Commission decision
establishing EURAB13 states that the Commission shall provide financial support to the
secretariat of the committee, ensuring that its independence is fully guaranteed. This includes
the scientific secretariat as well as secretarial support to the chair.
EURAB studies -According to Article 5 of the above-mentioned Decision, EURAB may ask
the Commission to undertake studies or consult outside organisations. The programme,
therefore, will also support the cost of a very limited number of studies on topics under the
consideration by EURAB or its working parties.
Actions in this topic will be launched through public procurement
Indicative budget (both parts): EUR 0,1 million
13 Commission Decision of 27 June 2001 on establishing the European Research Advisory Board, OJ L 192/91
14.7.2001
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
GRANTS TO NAMED RECIPIENTS
Topic Indicative
Budget (m )
a) Lisbon Conference on Ethics (European Science Foundation).
0,15
b) UBR Conference - Portuguese Ministry for Science, Technology and Higher
0,15
Education).
c) European Union Contest for Young Scientists
0.439
d) 14th International Conference of Women Engineers and Scientists
0,1
e) Lindau Foundation
0,05
f) European Broadcasting Union
1,0
SUBTOTAL 1,889
EXPERT CONTRACTS
Topic Indicative
Timing
Budget (m )
a) Expert Review on examples of adaptation of information on
0,025 2nd semester
emerging issues for science teaching.
b) Expert review of projects funded under FP6 looking into the
0,1 1st semester
societal dimension of energy technologies
c) Establishment of university-based research expert groups
0.08
1st semester
d) `Learning Institutions' expert review
0,02
1st semester
e) Women in Science and Technology (WiST) working group
0,5
1st semester
f) Expert Group on Gender and Excellence
0,2
2nd semester
SUBTOTAL 0.925
A number of actions foreseen will be funded through public procurement. A Summary table
is presented here for information purposes:
PUBLIC PROCUREMENT
Area and Topic
Indicative
Timing No
of
Procedure
Budget(m )
contracts
5.1.2.1 Pairing scheme for scientists and
0,05 2nd
1
Specific contract based on a
Members of the European Parliament
semester
framework contract under
Articles 88 FI and 117 IR
5.1.3.3 - E-network SINAPSE (Scientific
0,8 1st
1
Specific contract based on a
INformAtion for Policy Support in Europe)
semester
framework contract under
Articles 88 FI and 117 IR
2.1.2.1 Meta analysis of gender and science
2,0 1st
1 Open
research
semester
2.1.3.1 Help desk for Gender
0.7 2nd
1 Open
Mainstreaming
semester
2.2.2.2 Europa Diary for Schools
0,121
2nd
1
Specific contract based on a
semester
framework contract under
Articles 88 FI and 117 IR
5.4.0.2.Helsinki Group on Women in
0.1 1st 1
Specific contract based on a
Science
semester
framework contract under
Articles 88 FI and 117 IR
5.4.0.3 EURAB
0.1
2nd
1
Specific contract based on a
semester
framework contract under
Articles 88 FI and 117 IR
SUBTOTAL 3.871
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
Indicative budget for the Science in Society 2007 Work Programme
2007
M
Calls (FP7 Science in Society20071 & FP7 Science in
Society20072)
23,473
Expert evaluators
0,410
Other activities (incl. public procurement, expert groups,
6,685
grants to named recipients)
Estimated total budget allocation
30,568
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
INDICATIVE BUDGET
Indicative budget breakdown per activity or area (this excludes expert contracts, grants to
named recipients and public procurement).
Area 5.1.1.1
1,5 Million
Area 5.1.1.2
2,0 Million
Area 5.1.1.3
0,8 Million
Area 5.1.2.1
4,0 Million
Area 5.1.2.2
2,5 Million
Area 5.1.2.3
1,5 Million
Area 5.2.1.1
1.0 Million
Area 5.2.2.1
2.0 Million
Area 5.2.2.2
2,0 Million
Area 5.3.0.3
2,798 Million
Area 5.3.0.6
0,5 Million
Area 5.3.0.5
1,675 Million
Area 5.4.0.1
1,2 Million
Total
23,473 Million
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
III. IMPLEMENTATION OF CALLS
CALL FICHE 1
ˇ Call identifier: FP7-SCIENCE-IN-SOCIETY-2007-1
ˇ Date of publication: Friday 22 December 2006
ˇ Closure date: Wednesday 23 May, at 17.00, Brussels local time.
ˇ Indicative budget: 21,798 million EUR from 2007 budget
ˇ Topics called:
ACTIVITY/AREA
TOPICS CALLED
Funding Schemes
Indicative
Budget(m)
ACTIVITY 5.1.1 Better understanding of the place of science and technology in society
Area 5.1.1.1. Research on relationships between science, democracy and law
5.1.1.1.
SiS-2007-1.1.1.1 Interaction between
CSA (Coordinating)
1,5
science and politics
and CSA
(Supporting)
Area 5.1.1.2 Research on ethics in science and technology
5.1.1.2.
SiS-2007-1.1.2.1 Ethical frameworks of
Collaborative
new technologies
research Projects
(small or medium-
scale focused
2,0
projects)
SiS-2007-1.1.2.2 Research
Collaborative
underpinning policy support related to
research Projects
ethics precaution, and sustainable
(small or medium-
development
scale focused
projects)
Area 5.1.1.3 Research on the reciprocal influence of science and culture
5.1.1.3.
CSA (Coordinating)
0,8
SiS-2007-1.1.3.1 Science and Culture
Research Community
ACTIVITY 5.1.2 Broader engagement to anticipate and clarify political, societal and ethical issues
Area 5.1.2.1. Developing governance on science-related questions
5.1.2.1.
CSA (Coordinating)
and CSA
SiS-2007-1.2.1.1 CSO Capacity-
(Supporting)
building in Research
4,0
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
SiS-2007-1.2.1.2 Cooperative research
Collaborative
processes
research Projects
(small or medium-
scale focused
projects), CSA
Coordinating and
CSA Supporting
Area 5.1.2.2. Conditions for an informed debate on ethics and science
5.1.2.2.
SiS-2007-1.2.2.1 European Ethics
CSA
Documentation Centre
(Coordinating)
SiS-2007-1.2.2.2 Forum of National
CSA
Ethics Councils
(Coordinating)
SiS-2007-1.2.2.3 Ethics and Security
CSA
2,5
Research
(Coordinating)
SiS-2007-1.2.2.4 Capacity Building on
CSA
ethics in developing countries
(Coordinating)
Area 5.1.2.3. Cross Thematic Activities
5.1.2.3 SiS-2007-1.2.3.1-CT
Sustainable
CSA (Coordinating)
0,4
consumption and production
and CSA
(Supporting)
SiS-2007-1.2.3.2-CT
Nanoscience
and
CSA (Coordinating)
1,1
Nanotechnology
and CSA
(Supporting)
ACTIVITY 5.2.1 Gender and research
Area 5.2.1.1 Strengthening the role of women in scientific research
5.2.1.1
SiS-2007-2.1.1.1 Survey of positive
CSA
1,0
action schemes in the area of Research
(Coordinating)
Decision-making
ACTIVITY 5.2.2 Young People and Science
Area 5.2.2.1 Supporting formal and informal science education in schools as well as through science
centres and museums and other relevant means
5.2.2.1.
SiS-2007-2.2.1.1 Links between science
CSA
1,0
education and research
(Coordinating)
SiS-2007-2.2.1.2 Teaching Methods
CSA
1,0
(Coordinating)
Area 5.2.2.2 Reinforcing links between science education and science careers
5.2.2.2.
SiS-2007-2.2.2.1 Images of science
CSA
2,0
(Coordinating)
Area 5.3.0.3 Encouraging a European dimension at science events targeting the public
5.3.0.3.
SiS-2007-3.0.3.1
Science
museums,
CSA
2,798
science centres and organisers of science
(Coordinating)
events
Area 5.3.0.6. Research aimed at enhancing science communication in its methods and its products
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
5.3.0.6.
SiS-2007-3.0.6.1 Research in cultural
Collaborative
0,5
differences in public understanding
research Projects
(small or medium-
scale focused
projects)
ACTIVITY 5.4.1 Trans-national cooperation among National Contact Points (NCPs) for Science in
Society
5.4.0.1
SiS-2007-4.0.1.1 National Contact Points CSA (Coordinating)
1,2
transnational cooperation
SUBTOTAL 21.798
Evaluation procedure:
- A one-stage submission procedure will be followed
- Proposals may be evaluated remotely
- The evaluation criteria and sub-criteria (including weights and thresholds), together with the
eligibility, selection and award criteria, for the different funding schemes are set out in Annex
2 to this work programme
- Proposals will not be evaluated anonymously.
Indicative evaluation and contractual timetable
Evaluations are expected to be carried out during the month of July 2007. It is expected that
the contract negotiations for the shortlisted proposals will be open in September 2007.
Particular requirements for participation, evaluation and implementation
The minimum number of participating legal entities required, for all funding schemes, is set
out in the Rules for Participation14. A summary of the minimum participation requirements
for the instruments used in this call is given in the following table. These participation criteria
are also criteria for eligibility of the proposal.
Funding scheme
Minimum conditions
Collaborative project
At least 3 independent legal entities, each of which is established in
a MS or AC, and no two of which are established in the same MS
or AC.
Co-ordination and support action
At least 3 independent legal entities, each of which is established in
(co-ordinating)
a MS or AC, and no two of which are established in the same MS
or AC.
Co-ordination and support action
At least 1 independent legal entity*
(supporting)
*For the purposes of this Call for Proposals, the minimum participation condition for a Co-
ordination and support action (supporting) is 'at least one independent legal entity which is
14 MS = Member States of the EU; AC = Associated country. Where the minimum conditions for an indirect
action are satisfied by a number of legal entities, which together form one legal entity, the latter may be
the sole participant, provided that it is established in a Member State or Associated country
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
established in a Member State or in an Associated Country". This is also an eligibility
criterion.
The following participation criteria are also criteria for eligibility of proposals under the
specific topics indicated:
For SiS 2007 1.2.2.4 Capacity building on ethics in developing countries, the following rules
apply for Co-ordination and support actions (co-ordinating):
(a) at least four legal entities must participate;
(b) at least one of the legal entities referred to in point (a) must be established in an
international cooperation partner country, in particular the target regions of Africa (ACP)
Latin America, Eastern Europe and Central Asia (EECA), or Asia (in particular India or
China)
(c) at least three of the legal entities referred to in point (a) must be established in
Member States or Associated countries
(d) all four legal entities referred to in point (a) must be independent of each other
For SiS 2007 2.1.1.1 Survey of positive action schemes, the following rules apply for Co-
ordination and support actions (co-ordinating):
(a) at least four legal entities must participate;
(b) at least one of the legal entities referred to in point (a) must be established in the
United States, Canada or Australia
(c) at least three of the legal entities referred to in point (a) must be established in
Member States or Associated country
(d) all four legal entities referred to in point (a) must be independent of each other
Under this 2007 Science in Society Work Programme, "Collaborative research projects
(small or medium-scale focused research projects)" are those which request a maximum EC
contribution of 800.000. This financial limit constitutes an eligibility criterion and proposals
for "Collaborative research projects (small or medium-scale focused research projects)"
outside the limit will be excluded from the evaluation process. Please note, also, those topics
where the indicative budget amount may be close to or less than 800.000.
The forms of grant which will be offered and the maximum reimbursement rates are specified
in Annex 3 to the Capacities work programme.
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
CALL FICHE 2
ˇ Call identifier: FP7-SCIENCE-IN-SOCIETY-2007- 2
ˇ Date of publication: Thursday 15 March 200715
ˇ Closure date:Tuesday 10 July 200716, at 17.00, Brussels local time.
ˇ Indicative budget: 1,675 million EUR from 2007 budget
ˇ Topics called:
ACTIVITY/AREA
TOPICS CALLED
Funding Schemes
Indicative
Budget(m)
Area 5.3.0.5 Promotion of excellent trans-national research and science communication by the
means of popular prizes
5.3.0.5
SiS-2007-3.0.5.1 Descartes prizes for
CSA (Supporting)
1,480
transnational collaborative research
SiS-2007-3.0.5.2 Prizes for science
CSA (Supporting)
0,195
communication
SUBTOTAL 1.675
Indicative amounts of Awards:
SiS-2007-3.0.5.1 Descartes prizes for transnational collaborative research:
Total indicative amount available: 1.480.000 EUR
Up to 1.360.000 EUR for the laureates
120.000 EUR for up to four finalists (30.000 EUR each).
SiS-2007-3.0.5.2 Prizes for science Communication:
Total indicative amount available: 195.000 EUR
180.000 EUR for up to three laureates - 60.000 EUR each
15.000 EUR for up to three finalists (5.000 EUR each)
Evaluation procedure:
- A one-stage submission procedure will be followed
- The evaluation criteria and sub-criteria (including weights and thresholds), together with the
eligibility, selection and award criteria, for the different funding schemes are set out below.
- Proposals will not be evaluated anonymously.
Indicative evaluation and contractual timetable
15
The Director-General responsible for the call may publish it up to one month prior to or after the
envisaged date of publication.
16
At the time of the publication of the call, the Director-General responsible may delay this deadline by
up to two months.
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
To be determined on the basis of the publication date and closure date for this call for
proposals.
Particular requirements for participation, evaluation and implementation
The minimum number of participating legal entities required, for all funding schemes, is set
out in the Rules for Participation17. A summary of the minimum participation requirements
for the instruments used in this call is given in the following table. These participation criteria
are also criteria for eligibility of the proposal, and may be elaborated in more detail at the time
of the call.
Funding scheme
Minimum conditions
Co-ordination and support action
At least 1 independent legal entity
(supporting)
The following participation criteria are also criteria for eligibility of proposals under this call:
- SiS-2007-3.0.5.1 Descartes prizes for transnational collaborative research: Proposals are to
be submitted by a consortium of teams comprising a minimum of two mutually independent
legal entities* (organisations or individuals) of which one must be a MS, and the other one
from any other country (MS, AC, rest of the world).
- SiS-2007-3.0.5.2 Prizes for Science Communication: Proposals are to be submitted by a
legal entity (organisations or individuals) from a MS or AC that is awarding science
communication prizes on a national and/or international level ("prize organisers"). The
candidates proposed (for whom there are no restrictions as to their nationality) must be
winners of a science communication award of such a "prize organiser".
Specific Evaluation Criteria
SiS-2007-3.0.5.1 Descartes prize for transnational collaborative research
1. Excellence and quality of the proposal (threshold score 4 out of 5; weighting = 3)
ˇ quality and novelty of the results achieved;
ˇ contribution to addressing key scientific and technological issues.
2. European added value (threshold score 4 out of 5; weighting = 1)
ˇ The extent to which the results of the research can only be achieved if carried out at
European level and beyond;
17 MS = Member States of the EU; AC = Associated country. Where the minimum conditions for an indirect
action are satisfied by a number of legal entities, which together form one legal entity, the latter may be
the sole participant, provided that it is established in a Member State or Associated country
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
Overall threshold score after application of the weightings: 17 out of 20.
SiS-2007-3.0.5.2 Prizes for Science Communication
1. Excellence and quality of the proposal (threshold score 4 out of 5):
ˇ Adequacy, competence and innovativeness of the technical means invested in the
communication,
ˇ Accuracy, appropriateness and soundness of the scientific content
2. Relevance and impact (threshold score 3 out of 5):
ˇ Effectiveness of the communication activity in raising the profile of science, engineering
or technology, seen through the eyes of the intended public
ˇ Capability of the science communication action to address the main concerns and/or
expectations of the European society
3. European added value (threshold score 3 out of 5); weighting 2:
ˇ Capability of the communication activity, or of the professional engaged in
communication, to offer a model for its transposition into different cultural backgrounds
ˇ Capability of the communication activity or of the professional engaged in
communication, to open new lines of thoughts and trigger subsequent initiatives in a wider
context.
Overall threshold score: 16 out of 20 (after the application of the weighting)
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
IV INDICATIVE PRIORITIES FOR FUTURE CALLS (2008)
Area 5.1.1.3. Research on the reciprocal influence of science and culture
Science and the City combining regional and scientific actors, including museums, in
promoting a scientific culture.
Area 5.1.1.4. The role and image of scientists
Area 5.1.2.2. Conditions for an informed debate on ethics and science
Creation of a platform of European Ethics Committees (EUREC)
Area 5.1.2.1. Broader engagement on science-related questions
Area 5.1.3.3. Encouraging the debate on information dissemination, including access to
scientific results and the future of scientific publications.
The role of scientific publication in the research system, IPRs, open science
Area 5.2.1.1. Strengthening the role of women in scientific research
a) Europe wide statistical survey of science graduates and senior researchers to gain a better
understanding of issues affecting women's careers in science.
b) International comparative analysis of Gender Mainstreaming: Identification at
European level of national or local schemes aiming at encouraging academic institutions in
their mainstreaming of gender issues and promotion of women scientists.
Area 5.2.1.2. Gender dimension of research
Gender and Emerging Technologies: projects will investigate whether the social structures
in New and Emerging Technologies repeat the usual scheme like for well established
traditionally male dominated disciplines, or if women scientists involved in these fields
have better opportunities.
Area 5.2.1.3. Mainstreaming gender in EU research policy and programme:
Gender, environment and health (Cross-thematic activity)
Area 5.2.2.2. Reinforcing links between science education and science careers
Call for proposals for actions to establish and reinforce links between science education and
science careers, targeting lower secondary up to and including science undergraduates.
5.2.2.3. Research and coordination actions on new methods in science education
Include analysis of young peoples' attitudes towards science (studies)
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FP7 Capacities Work Programme: Science in Society
5.3.2 Training actions to bridge the gap between the media and the scientific community
(training actions for journalists/scientists and intensive training for scientists).
5.3.4 Promoting science by audiovisual means via European co-productions and the
circulation of science programmes
Area 5.3.6. Research aimed at enhancing science communication in its methods and its
products.
Cultural differences in public understanding of science, and access to information (including
ethnic minorities).
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