Bulgarian biomedicine gets a boost
The goal of the 'Enhancing the capacity of biomedical research in Bulgaria' (MMCBG) project was to develop the research and technological potential of the Molecular Medicine Centre (MMC) at the Medical University of Sofia in Bulgaria. The initiative targeted improvements in areas where the MMC had already enjoyed international recognition and collaborated with EU research centres. The project supported the integration of Bulgaria into the European Research Area (ERA). It also enabled local researchers to compete at the international level and contributed to long-term scientific development in the field of molecular medicine. Partners addressed a number of objectives, including the upgrading of existing facilities and the expansion of expertise in molecular genetics and genomic research. Networking with Bulgarian and EU research centres was increased to promote ability in conducting collaborative studies and the dissemination of information and scientific knowledge. Monthly joint seminars were organised and served as a basis for the creation of new research groups in priority areas. The groups included the genetics of epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular disorders. New research groups were also established for biomedical research in sports, pharmacogenetics and genetics of HIV infection. Established research links with other institutes in Bulgaria, working in the field of cell and molecular biology were expanded and strengthened. MMCBG project successes will help raise the profile of Bulgarian biomedical research and enable the country to take a fuller role in the ERA. In this way, Bulgaria will be able to make a greater contribution to the European economy.
