Streamlining of Commission procedures to help researchers
Applying for Commission research funding should be a quicker more transparent process following changes in the Commission's administrative procedure. One of the major difficulties for researchers and scientists had been the uncertainty they faced during periods following applications for funding, which could often last months. Feedback from these personnel to the Commission has indicated that valuable time can be lost while waiting for decisions, particularly if the application for funding is rejected. As from November 29, the Director-General Achilleas Mitsos (of DG Research) will have the power to inform a project whether it has been accepted for funding, rather than waiting for the Commission to decide. 'Commissioner Busquin will have to explain and defend his case in front of the Commission once and after that Mr Mitsos will be able to inform the proposers directly. This can save months of waiting,' said a spokesman from the Research DG.