Types of projects that can be funded

The Life Science, Genomics and Biotechnology for Health Priority will be largely implemented through funding large integrated projects and networks of excellence. These new FP6 'instruments' are designed to mobilise the critical mass needed to achieve ambitious objectives, and to achieve a structuring and integrating effect on the fabric of European Research. Support for smaller projects is also available, however, using more traditional instruments similar to those employed in FP5.

Brochure on FP6 instruments to implement the thematic priorities (pdf, 488 kb)

Funding is awarded after evaluating project proposals submitted in response to calls that specify a number of research topics. In the first call each research topic is linked to a particular instrument, or to a limited choice of instruments, and it is not possible to secure funding for the more traditional projects in areas that are already covered by topics inviting integrated project or network of excellence proposals.

It is anticipated that integrated projects and networks of excellence will together account for approximately 80% of the 513 M€ allocated to first call proposals in the LifeSciHealth Priority. In addition, 200M€ has been allocated for a pilot Article 169 project, the European and Developing Countries Clinical Trials Partnership (EDCTP), which will be implementing its own call procedures.

Please note that although training is an integral part of the LifeSciHealth Priority, and will be supported through the network of excellence and integrated project instruments, and the EDCTP, the funds for training activities within these projects will be allocated and administered by the project partnerships themselves. Training fellowships are offered directly by the European Commission through the Marie Curie Actions.