7th Framework Programme
The Seventh Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development (FP7) is the EU's main instrument for funding research in Europe and will run from 2007 to 2013.
FP7 supports research in 5 selected priority areas (or programmes) which are: cooperation, ideas, people, capacities, and nuclear research. Health is a major theme of the Cooperation programme, with a total budget of 6 billion Euros over the duration of FP7.
The objective of the health research programme is to improve the health of European citizens, and increase and strengthen the competitiveness and innovative capacities of European health-related industries and businesses. Global health issues, like emerging epidemics, will also be addressed.
Emphasis of the health research programme will be placed on:
- translational research (i.e. translation of basic discoveries into clinical applications);
- the development and validation of new therapies, methods for health promotion and prevention including the promotion of healthy ageing, diagnostic tools and medical technologies, and sustainable and efficient healthcare systems.
Participation of SMEs is encouraged under the health research programme since research-based SMEs are the main economic drivers of innovation in healthcare, biotechnology and medical technologies. The health-related joint technology initiative IMI – “Innovative Medicine Initiative” ( http://imi.europa.eu/index_en.html ), is expected to particularly attract SMEs’ participation .
More detailed information on FP7 and details of Calls for Proposals are available on the Community Research & Development Information Service (Cordis) website (http://cordis.europa.eu/fp7/home_en.html) and on the European Commission website (http://ec.europa.eu/research/fp7/index_en.cfm).