COST: Matchmaking for Researchers

Authors: Janet Mifsud, Claire Bellia

Corresponding: Janet Mifsu (janet.mifsud@um.edu.mt)

Keywords: none

Doi: none

Issue: Xjenza Online Vol. 1 Iss. 1 - March 2013

Abstract:
As many researchers are aware, while the EU others a huge variety of funding possibilities, many of the funding mechanisms are tied to projects which require consortia made up of partners from different countries. Many researchers based in Malta, especially younger researchers, query on how one gets invited to participate in such consortia. In addition, the complex funding and administrative procedures involved in many of these EU projects, may put on several local scientists and researchers from applying for such funds. COST, Cooperation in Science and Technology, others a facilitated mechanism which tackles and overcomes these hurdles. Since the early 1970s, COST, European COoperation in Science and Technology, has brought researchers from various countries together to promote transnational coordination of nationally-funded research. This is a unique approach which enables the sharing of research interests across thirty-ve European countries, and has even attracted the participation of many non EU countries such as Australia and Canada. COST not only supports the organization of the networking meetings, but also other activities as described later on. It attracts scientists and experts working not only within academia and industry, but also from NGOs and the public sector. Moreover, COST involves very simple administrative and funding procedures.

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