European CommissionEuropean Commission

Commissioner Geoghegan-Quinn announces plans to simplify research funding – without compromising financial control.

The European Research Area is too fractured and much by inward-looking national priorities, an advisory body warns, urging a fundamental shift in the way research is done.

Interim Director Jack Metthey tells Science|Business he is banishing the red tape that threatens to undermine the European Research Council’s hard-earned reputation for funding excellent research.

ERC head Fotis Kafatos urges basic research for economic growth – and charts a course for expansion.

The French Presidency made headway on the Small Business Act, but other matters, notably patent reform, were run off the rails by the financial crisis, says Science|Business’s Paul Meller

The Commission and the European Patent office are taking action to eradicate underhand tactics for keeping generic drugs off the market.

Ten new projects European research infrastructures were announced this week. But how many will get off the ground?

Should European governments favour open source software when they hold tenders for public contracts? Economists and policy makers appear to think so.

Rather than duplicate efforts, member states should identify priority areas where Europe can compete globally, says the Commission.

The EU has launched a “no holds barred” review of its ICT research and innovation strategy. But critics warn diverting R&D spending to problem areas such as energy and health will hold back ICT’s wider potential.