European researchers in Japan enthusiastic about ERA-Link plan
European researchers in Japan have given a warm welcome to Commission plans to set up a network of European researchers in Japan called ERA-Link/Japan. 'The proposed ERA-Link/Japan will keep European researchers in Japan in touch with each other, informed about European research, and able to inform researchers in Europe about research in Japan, all of which will be instrumental in reinforcing Europe-Japan research cooperation,' explained Janez Potocnik, EU Science and Research Commissioner. Concretely, the ERA-Link/Japan will include tools such as a website with a forum and links to information on European research policies, funding opportunities and job vacancies. A newsletter is also foreseen, along with network meetings and events for members of the network. The network will also be present at career fairs in collaboration with EU Member States. A survey of over 500 European researchers based in Japan revealed high levels of enthusiasm for such a network, with over 90% of those polled saying they would be interested in being kept up to date on the development of the network. Around three quarters described at least one aspect of the proposed network as 'useful' or 'very useful'. The poll also revealed rather low levels of awareness of the EU's research activities; 43% had heard of the European Research Council, 37% knew about the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) and just 23% had heard of the European Research Area. Many European researchers are working in other parts of the world, and the Commission is keen to ensure that their knowledge and networks be put to good use. 'This is why the European Commission persistently advocates the benefits of 'brain circulation', both within Europe and at a global level, rather than concentrating on the more restrictive concepts of 'brain drain' and 'brain gain',' said Hugh Richardson, Head of the Delegation of the European Commission to Japan, presenting the results of the survey in Tokyo on 29 November. 'Such a brain circulation cannot ignore Japan which is one of the leading countries in the world in terms of investment in research (3.53% of GDP - 80.7% from the private sector).' According to the survey, European researchers in Japan are particularly interested in the following information and services: Europe-Japan cooperation opportunities; sources of funding; career opportunities; improved contacts with researchers; and improved contacts with scientific organisations. The European Commission is now working on the design and technical specifications of the new service, which is expected to be operational by mid-2008. The Commission launched a similar network for European researchers in the US in 2005, and surveys for further expansion of the concept to other parts of the world, including China, are planned for 2008.
Countries
Japan