Hosting scientific structures & networks

We provide tailored secretariat services enabling scientific structures & networks to focus on their activities and impact

ESF-hosted scientific structures and networks develop a strategic approach to their domains in close collaboration with national authorities or European agencies and research entities. They are composed of high-level, independent researchers or research managers who provide targeted expert advice in areas of science, policy, infrastructure, environment and society in Europe.

These structures have the expertise and authority to exercise influence with decision makers and funding agencies. However, to ensure their visibility and relevance on the international scene, they must have an effective organisational structure, enabling them to concentrate on their scientific goals and activities independently and effectively.

ESF can establish and manage the executive office/secretariat of Expert Committees, Institutes and societies, allowing these independent structures to operate following their own governance (individual or institutional membership), terms of reference and funding without the need to create a legal structure.

Our support

Finance : Collection of annual contributions from member organisations; invoicing and recovery; accounting; regular reporting to members and overall governance
Human resources : ESF can provide support for hiring and, when required, direct staff management and contractual arrangements, payroll and social charges management
Legal support : Legal advice; drafting of Memoranda of Understanding and various agreements; support on the establishment of contracts and follow-up
Communication : Support for publications, press releases and media monitoring services; web site support when required; dissemination using ESF’s network and external PR agency support
Science and science policy management : Support in the organisation of events and plenary meetings; drafting of position papers and consensus reports; foresight studies; surveys and analysis
Other services : Bespoke support and services provided to meet your specific requirements

STRUCTURES & NETWORKS HOSTED BY ESF

ESF has a long track record establishing and hosting scientific structures and networks since 1974 across diverse scientific fields including space sciences, radio-astronomy frequencies, nuclear physics, and Open Access.

Click on the logos below to see the scientific organisations that have entrusted their executive office administration to ESF: