The European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) invites researchers throughout Europe to submit proposals for research networks and use this unique opportunity to exchange knowledge.

About: COST brings together researchers and experts in different countries working on specific topics. It invites proposal for Actions contributing to the scientific, technological, economic, cultural or societal development of Europe. COST stimulates new, innovative, interdisciplinary and broad research networks in Europe. COST activities are carried out by research teams to stregthen the foundations for building scientific excellence in Europe.

COST is organised in nine broad Domains: Biomedicine and Molecular Biosciences; Chemistry and Molecular Sciencies and Technologies; Earth System Science and Environmental Management; Food and Ariculture; Forests, their Products and Services; Individuals, Society, Culture and Health; Information and Communication Technologies; Materials, Physical and Nanoscience; Transport and Urban Development.

The intended coverage of each Domain is explained on their website

Elegibility: Proposals shoud include researchers from a minimum of five COST countries.

Duration: Up to 4 years.

Funding: COST does not fund research itslef, but supports networking activities such as meetings, conferences, short term scientific exchanges and outreach activities. The support will cover the costs of networking activities such as meetings (e.g. travel, subsistence, local organiser support), conferences, workshiops, short-term scientific exchanges, training schools, publications and idssemination activities. COST does not fund the research itself. Financial support in the range of 100.000 € p.a. can be expected.

Application process: COST operates a two-stage application process: firstly a preliminary proposal providing an overview of the proposed Action's goal and its foreseen impact. After assessment, approximately 80 of these preliminary proposals are selectd for the second phase. Successful applicants are then invited to submit a full proposal.

Deadline for expressions of interest at VHIR: February 24, 2014

Official Deadline for proposal registration: March 07, 2014 (TRANS-DOMAIN COST ACTIONS)

Official Deadline for proposal submission: April 11, 2014

Further information: COST - March 2014