International projects
Trans-European cooperation and coordination of genome sequencing and functional genomics of human-pathogenic microorganisms
Organisations (1)
Abstract
The death toll caused by infections with pathogenic microorganisms is still highest among human diseases. This worldwide public health threat is even increasing because of new pathovariants spred by global tourism, enhanced resistance to antiinfective drugs, potential bioterrorist attacks, etc. Concurrently, the advent of functional genomics technologies allows the rational, systematic unravelling of pathogenesis-related genes thereby identifying new targets for diagnostics, therapeutics, and prevention. In contrast to human genome research with long-lasting, coordinated national programmes the funding of genome research on human-pathogenic microorganisms ('pathogenomics') is fragmented, but - nevertheless - ready for restructuring. Thus, PathoGenoMics aims at: · cooperation / coordination of national programme (part)s in 11 countries (budget > 50 Mio. ?; > 250 research teams). 5 countries which do not yet/no more have a running activity are affiliated. · creation of an 'internal market' with improved mobility of knowledge, resources, scientists, etc. · joint research and training agenda on pathogenomics as part of a European research policy The consortium consists of senior programme managers of the leading public funding bodies, who will - in interaction with high-level scientists, industry, and other stake-holders - address among others: · Knowledge exchange on programme-oriented funding in- and outside Europe · Inventory of research and training sites · Analysis of cooperation potentials and new challenges · Harmonized innovation strategy to stimulate economic exploitation · Joint administrative/legal framework including funding schemes · Provision of well-trained administrative personnel for executing transnational activities · Joint programme (two funding rounds with synchronised national calls and transnational evaluation) · Addressing major science & society issues
