International agreement to provide assistance to young researchers in developing countries
The International Foundation for Science (IFS) and the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) are to provide grants and technical assistance to young scientists in developing countries. The IFS is an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) funded by governmental and other sources. Contributors include the European Commission, the UK, Germany, Sweden, France, Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway and Switzerland. In addition to awarding grants, the initiative will involve organising workshops, sharing expertise and collaborating on research projects. All activities will focus on the fields of agriculture, forestry, water resources, medicinal plants and fisheries. Grants are expected to have an upper limit of 12,000 US dollars (9,800 euro). Isabel Alvarez, head of the FAO's research and technology development service, described the agreement as establishing a strong and effective base for collaboration between her organisation and the IFS, and ensuring maximum harmony and synergy in their work.