Scientific integration in Europe
For more than 70 years, IBIR-BAS as been developing its scientific excellence in the field of biology of reproduction in both humans and animals. The EU-funded REPROFORCE project proposed a comprehensive set of measures to increase IBIR-BAS' scientific and technological capacity and integrate it into European Research Area (ERA). IBIR-BAS successfully implemented the action plan described in the REPROFORCE work programme. The project intensified exchange of know-how, recruitment of experienced researchers, acquisition of research equipment, and upgrading of laboratories. Ten methodological training courses and eight scientific events were organised in collaboration with local and international partners. Twenty six mobility actions were implemented. Acquisition of new equipment resulted in the upgrading of four laboratories (proteome analysis lab, cell culture lab, IVF/embryo transfer facility and confocal/light microscopy facility) and an animal facility. Increased scientific exchange and the organisation of meetings and workshops contributed to improved dissemination of information in IBIR-BAS. The overall scientific collaboration for the period 2010–2013 resulted in 17 publications with international partners, 60 publications with national partners and 8 scientific books. Reproductive local network was extended by attraction and involvement of 12 students in development of Bachelor and Master Theses, of 10 researchers from another Research Institutions and Universities for conducting PhD thesis, of 30researchers from another Research Institutions and Universities for collaborative experimental work. The success of REPROFORCE led to an international strategic plan for further development of IBIR-BAS until 2020. With further research diversification and innovation, IBIR-BAS is slated to become an important research centre in human and animal reproduction in ERA by the year 2020.
