Why is it important?
The 'Science in society' initiative aims to stimulate a harmonious integration of scientific and technological endeavour and associated research policies in European society. It will encourage Europe-wide reflection and debate on science and technology and their relation with society and culture. This action line is based on the rationale that the ability of European societies to develop themselves in a positive and sustainable way depends, to a large extent, on their capacity to create and exploit knowledge and to innovate.
'Science in society' will be implemented through the following mix of initiatives:
- Policy-related actions and research supported directly from this theme;
- Cooperation between EU Member States, identifying common goals, and reinforcing national practices, in the spirit of the open method of coordination;
- Promoting, supporting and monitoring the uptake and impact of 'Science in society' issues in other parts of the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7). The theme will also ensure overall coordination of issues related to 'Science in society' both across FP7 and within other relevant European Community activities (e.g. relating to education and culture).
What will be funded?
The initiative undertaken in this field will provide support to:
- A more dynamic governance of the relationship between science and society
- Research on ethics in science and technology;
- The reciprocal influence of science and culture;
- Conditions for an informed debate on ethics and science;
- Strengthening potential, broadening horizons
- Strengthening the role of women in scientific research;
- Supporting formal and informal science education in schools as well as through science centres and museums and other relevant means;
- Reinforcing links between science education and science careers;
- Science and society communication
- Encouraging a European dimension at science events targeting the public;
- Science prizes;
- Trans-national cooperation among National Contact Points (NCPs) for 'Science in society'.
Calls
The European Commission will fund 'Science in society' activities by selecting project proposals submitted following the publication of a 'Call for proposals'. When the first calls of the 'Science in society' Work Programme are published they will be announced on this page.
Budget:
The EU Member States have earmarked a total of € 330 million for funding this theme over the duration of FP7.
Science in Society Portal on Europa
Previous relevant European activities
Last updated on: 2008-04-29