Establishing and supporting networks
COST helps to create networks and thus bundles nationally-financed research initiatives in so-called COST Actions. These Actions provide funding for scientific events (e.g. workshops, training schools and conferences), cover relevant travel expenses (Short-Term Scientific Missions, Management Committee meetings etc.) and fund publications. COST does not fund research itself but enables experts (from science and industry) from all over Europe and the World to collaborate. The strong involvement of Young Researchers, Investigators and experts from so-called Inclusiveness Target Countries as well as gender balance are of key concern under COST.
Bottom-up
COST follows a buttom-up approach. COST Actions may cover all scientific fields and take intersectoral and interdisciplinary composition into account.
How can I participate?
COST invites experts to submit project proposals through a continuous Open Call with an annual Collectoin Date per year, usually in autum. Following evaluation of these proposals, approximately 60 new COST Actions are funded.
Experts have also the opportunity to join running COST Actions (Working Groups, Short Term Secientific Missions, Workshops etc.). Furthermore, each member country may nomitate up to two experts as national representatives into the Management Committee of an Action -> find open positions. Please apply via the FFG eCall.
Moreover, experts from all scientific fields are invited to participate as evaluators for COST Action proposals. For more information please refer to the COST Association.