Summary

Plant genome research developed into one of the most dynamic discipline of molecular life sciences. Plants are recognized as the basis of a bio-based economy and play a fundamental rule to sustain our environment. European countries bundle their efforts in the filed in national and regional research programs. Some of those have already developed sustainable co-operations with joint research projects. But many of these activities are currently limited to Western Europe. The fundamental idea of this project is to support research networks all over Europe including third countries based by training young investigators and the exchange of knowledge and technological insides. Existing deficits in the access to technologies, resources but also skills and know-how will be supported to become overcome. The envisaged “European Networking Summer School” will organize a yearly summer course pursuing the training aspect, the exchange of ideas and the creation of an active and living network between European scientists, research organizations and research programs. The networking and training activity course combines the latest theoretic knowledge with practical lessons. During the courses target groups of approx. 15- 20 young and interested researchers from all over Europe will brought together. An annual published brochure (ca. 250 pages course book) on the latest developments, given lectures and practical exercises will maximize the knowledge transfer to a wider group of interested scientists. The support of the European Science Foundation for these activities would not only be necessary for its success but would also strengthen the political mark that the networking and training activity will set on a European integration and cooperation.

Duration

Five years, from September 2007 to September 2012.