Britain and Germany take steps toward ERA
A British and a German research council cemented an agreement on 1 October to increase researcher mobility between the two countries in what is seen as a clear step towards the proposed European Research Area (ERA). The agreement between the UK EPSRC (Engineering and physical sciences research council) and its German counterpart the DFG (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft) means that researchers will be able to retain existing grants following a move between either institution. The heads of the two organisations felt the move demonstrated ways in which research institutions can play an active part in forging the ERA. The move was 'in the spirit of Commissioner Busquin's proposals for a European research area,' said EPSRC chief executive John O' Reilly, while DFG president professor Ernst-Ludwig Winnacker emphasised that research institutes can take the initiative in promoting mobility. 'The concept of a European research area challenges organisations in the various countries to new forms of openness and closer co-operation. The possibility of a transfer of grants is a contribution to removing obstacles to the mobility of researchers within this area,' he said. The agreement will see the initial financing and time limits observed in the same way as the original grants, while equipment funds transfers will be dealt with on an individual basis. The two institutions will be asked for their permission regarding any transfers and they will consult with each other concerning plans for joint exploitation of research. The agreement will run for three years before being reviewed. It can also be reviewed before this with the agreement of both parties.