Private sector sponsorship

In general, the involvement of the private sector in ESF activities is welcomed, subject to certain conditions. In particular, ESF is willing to allow and accept sponsorship of science activities supported by the Foundation and sponsorship of Web Sites of these activities conditional on the sponsors assuring ESF, in writing, that they comply with or are willing to comply with ESF policy guidelines. This is particularly emphasised in relation to good research practice and ethical matters. In addition, all sponsorship arrangements cannot be of an exclusive nature.

Policy guidelines are set out in the ESF Science Policy Briefing series, in particular:

The use of animals in research (PDF 261 KB)
Good research practice (PDF 86 KB)
Genetically modified plants (PDF 316 KB)
Controlled clinical trials (PDF 288 KB)
Human stem cell research (PDF 317 KB)

Generally, the Chair or organiser of the activity (workshop, network or à la carte programme) and his/her institution will be responsible for checking that sponsors comply with ESF policy and for providing the necessary written agreements and documentation.