EU calls for members for new research advisory groups - launch of detailed preparation for Fifth Framework Programme
High-level scientific experts have been invited to apply to assist the European Commission in establishing work programmes for the Key Actions under the upcoming Fifth Framework Programme. A total of 17 new research advisory groups are to be set up to help the Commission in the implementation of the Programme, by contributing to the definition of research policy guidelines for the 22 Key Actions planned. The first task of these groups - each consisting of 15 to 20 members - will be to advise on the work programmes which will set out in detail the research fields to be supported under the new Programme. This work is expected to start by the end of July 1998, and will be followed up with the programming of the calls for proposals and defining the criteria to be used in evaluating project proposals. One key element of the groups' work will be to set quantified or testable objectives for attaining the aims of the Key Actions. The groups would also play a role in any reorientation necessary during the course of the Programme. Members of the groups will be high-level industrialists, academic researchers, users of research results (for example patient groups), members of public regulatory bodies, and representatives of other fields with an interest in research. These members will be appointed by the Commission on a personal basis, and will not represent their organization or their country. As well as those chosen from responses to this call for proposals, members may also be drawn from nominations from the Member States and from others chosen directly by the Commission. The members of each group will be chosen to ensure a balance between the different interests and between countries. The Commission will also ensure an appropriate balance between men and women on each group. For further information, please see the DG XII Website, at: http://europa.eu.int/comm/dg12/fp5/eag.html To submit applications, please contact: European Commission DG XII - Science, research and development Secretariat for Advisory Groups 200 rue de la Loi (SDME 2/108) B-1049 Brussels