EURAB completes first term

Brussels, 09 Jun 2004

The European Research Advisory Board (EURAB) has completed its first term, and will welcome 21 new members when the new term begins on 15 June. The completion of the board's first ever term has prompted Research Commissioner Philippe Busquin, as well as those involved, to reflect on its achievements.

'EURAB has greatly contributed to the higher profile of European research policy on the European Union's agenda,' said Mr Busquin.

'During these three years, I have felt that the diversity of the board, bringing together the 'know' of the academic world and the 'how' in industry to a European 'know-how' has been most beneficial in allowing EURAB to develop ambitious, but realistic and robust recommendations to the Commission,' added Helga Nowotny, chair of EURAB. 'We have been able to develop an excellent working relation with the Commission services based on trust and mutual understanding.'

EURAB brings together 45 experts from 19 countries, who represent both academia and industry. They have worked with full autonomy and independence to advise on issues such as the European Research Area (ERA), the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6), the proposed European Research Council, and the use of the EU's Structural Funds to support research.

On a more sombre note, Mr Busquin paid tribute to Gérard Mégie, a member of EURAB, who passed away on 7 June. Mr Mégie was also the President of the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS).

'A brilliant researcher in aeronomy and a great administrator of research in Europe, Gérard Mégie was a committed European, very involved in the realisation of the European Research Area,' said the Commissioner.

For further information on EURAB, please visit:
http://europa.eu.int/comm/research/eurab /index_en.html

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