Estonia to make its mark in biomedical advances
The Centre of Molecular and Clinical Medicine of Estonia's University of Tartu is determined to raise the level of medical research in the country, and to concentrate skills and funding in selected areas of medical research in the neurological and immunological sciences. This undertaking is supported by the 'Advancing scientific performance and regional potential of Estonian biomedical research' (Estbioreg) project. Efforts here aim to advance research and technological development (RTD) as well as the quality of research being conducted. So far, the EU-funded project has arranged five staff visits to leading European laboratories and has also hosted experienced European scientists — actions that have resulted in a variety of cooperation projects and the publication of joint papers. Five foreign postdoctoral fellows have been recruited with positive results noted on their contribution to improving the centre's research and development (R&D) capacity and potential. Other than playing a role in attracting research funding, among other contributions, their presence was instrumental in attaining the status of National Centre of Excellence for the period from 2008 to 2015. Increased funding has also enabled the purchase of new equipment. Staff training has been fortified with over 30 stipends granted to cover registration fees, and travel and accommodation expenses for attendance-relevant international meetings, workshops and conferences. The university also organised the 2009 'Perspectives in Neuroimmunology' conference which inspired new contacts, ideas and cooperation, as well as augmenting the centre's international visibility and standing. The latter have been further supported through publications in national print media, interviews, and even high-school events. Another Estbioreg project accomplishment has come in the form of collaboration with companies in the fields of biotechnology and intellectual property rights through a series of small-scale meetings. The key actions identified and being carried out by Estbioreg promise to enhance the existing work environment and enrich the centre's internal and external collaboration opportunities for improved results in biomedical research.
