The EU and Mexico's National Council of Science and Technology have reportedly created a new fund to promote scientific knowledge transfer and joint research projects. The new International Fund of Science and Technology Cooperation (Foncicyt) was formed last week, during a visit by EU commissioner of science and research, Janez Potocnik, to Mexico City.
The initial phase of the project (2008-2010), estimated at €
20 million, has been co-financed with each party contributing 50 percent. This phase will include sustaining competitive economies, combating climate change, securing energy supplies, preserving the environment, ensuring the health and quality of life of citizens and achieving social justice.
The projects will receive an average of €
400,000 over the next two to three years. Research proposals should be partnerships between at least two Mexican research institutions and two European institutions. The first call for research proposals will be in May 2009, and will support the formation of human capital - an issue of importance to Mexico as 60 percent of its 2,100 overseas doctorate students are based in Europe.
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