R&D policy

The first full list of finalists from Brussels’ new research agency has plenty of surprises for research establishments.

The Slovenian government is launching a new call for donations from the private sector to help the Western Balkans improve its science base, with an emphasis on laboratory facilities.

Using Europe’s €1,700 billion annual public procurement budget to stimulate innovation is an idea whose time is coming – slowly.

The way is now open to Albania’s full participation in the EU’s Seventh Research Framework Programme.

Researchers and institutions in Germany and the UK dominate in the starting grants for independent research issued by the recently created European Research Council.

The European Commission said it will investigate whether a €96 million aid that France plans to grant Peugeot-Citroën and other partners for the development of a hybrid diesel car is compatible with EC Treaty state aid rules.

Specialist units set up by UK Revenue and Customs Departments to encourage SMEs to apply for R&D tax credits made cash payments totalling £150 million in the past year.

What is the best way for the EU to spend its R&D money? An unusual debate at the European Commission provides insights.

Considering R&D collaboration in China? Look before you leap, say innovation consultants Taco C.R. van Someren and Shuhua van Someren-Wang. Mistakes can cost millions.

Scientists in the two newest EU members may have more reason to cheer their accession than the farmers and labourers who were expected to benefit most.