R&D News


More clarity needed on new EU science advice mechanism

The EU Commission is setting up a new science advice scheme. Before recruiting experts, it should specify the goals and methodology, says Martin Kowarsch, Head of Scientific Assessments, Ethics and Public Policy at Germany’s MCC climate change research institute

Pharma industry hits out at Horizon 2020 cut

Europe’s pharma industry says the €2.2B cut to Horizon 2020 is misguided, while scientists and MEPs declare themselves happy, for the most part, that the cut is less than the €2.7B originally proposed

The SME instrument: tips & tricks for greater success

Since its 2014 launch the SME instrument has attracted applications from across Europe. But the quality is low, with only 12% passing the quality threshold. Bernd Reichert, head of unit at the Executive Agency for SMEs, offers tips for success