A Special ISBN: 92-79-02302-0

December/2006

A special ISBN: 92-79-02302-0

REPORT

EDITED BY THE INSTITUTE FOR PROSPECTIVE TECHNOLOGICAL STUDIES (IPTS)

THE CENTRAL- AND EASTERN EUROPEAN NETWORK OF ACADEMIES OF SCIENCE

The Central- and Eastern European The Polish Academy of Sciences’ Ochota 3 Network: An Instrument to Assist the Campus: A Competence Centre for Biomedical 3 European Integration Process 36 Research Gilbert Fayl, Felix Unger Jerzy Duszyński, Leszek Kaczmarek, and Marcin Szumowski The Hungarian Academy of Sciences and 11 the World Science Forum Scientific Excellence Indicators of European 11 Attila Meskó Integration: the Example of MANU 40 Jordan Pop-Jordanov and Natasa Markovska

Science in Central and Eastern Europe at 15 the Crossroads: Slovakia's Experience Czech Science in the European Research Area Ján Slezák 47 Václav Paces

Bulgarian Science on the Eve of Accession 20 to the European Union The Latvian R&D Scene Simeon Anguelov and Naum Yakimov 51 Andrejs Siliņš Towards a Knowledge-based Society Using a Network of Institutions 25 The R&D Scene in Montenegro 25 in Central and Eastern Europe Momir Djurovic Ivo Šlaus 55

Technology and Competitiveness in South-East Europe: the View from SASA 31 Časlav Ocić ABOUT THE JRC

The European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC)

The Joint Research Centre (JRC) is a Directorate-General of the European Commission. It comprises seven research Institutes located in five EU Member States (Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Spain). Comprising 2,700 staff, DG JRC plays an active role in helping create a safer, cleaner, healthier and more competitive Europe.

The mission of the JRC is to provide customer-driven scientific and technical support for the conception, development, implementation and monitoring of EU policies. As a service of the European Commission, DG JRC functions as a reference centre of science and technology for the Union. Close to the policy-making process, it serves the common interest of the Member States, while being independent of special interests, whether private or national.

The JRC is allocated an annual budget of ~320 EUR million for direct support to EU institutions from the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7). It earns up to a further 15% from competitive activities.

The main customers of the JRC are the Commission's policy Directorate-Generals, although substantial work is performed for the Member State institutions and authorities, European Parliament and Council, Community and Executive Agencies.

More information can be found at: http://www.jrc.ec.europa.eu

t is a pleasure for me to commend to you this publication on the Central and I Eastern European Network of Academies of Science, with its aim to support the deeper integration of these countries into the European Research Area. I have some experience of research in this region as a student and professor in Slovenia, so I know well its merits and potential.

J a n e z P o t o č n i k Science and Research Commissioner Historians of science are often asked to explain why important scientific breakthroughs were not always fully exploited in the place they were first discovered. The question is particularly vexing when it concerns areas, often outside Europe, that missed out on exploiting their home-grown scientific and technological talents and results, such as those responsible for the first groundbreaking attempts at the compass or the steam engine.

In the context of research in the early 21st century, the potential of Central and Eastern Europe is an opportunity not to be missed. The research potential of this large area holds promise, not just because of the scale of untapped research talent it can offer, but also because of the quality of its researchers, as demonstrated by the contributions they have made to science over time. There are many names one could mention. I will highlight just three, who came from different parts of Central and Eastern Europe, and whose contributions cover different areas of science: Physics and Chemistry Nobel prize-winner Marie Curie, after whom the Commission has named its fellowship programme; John von Neumann, responsible for more breakthroughs in more areas of research (Mathematics, Physics, Economics and Computer Science) than probably any other 20th century scientist; and Nikola Tesla, a key pioneer of electromagnetism and holder of countless patents.

These three scientists have something else in common, apart from their genius: all three left their countries to carry out their research. Whereas Marie Curie moved to France, Tesla and von Neumann moved to the US, a path many European scientists and Central and Eastern Europe scientists in particular, followed in later years. This teaches us an important lesson for the region. Untapped research potential will often flow to where it can be put to best use: in a world of increasingly global flows of goods, capital and human capital, this may be to

another country, or even to another continent. It is said that a mind is a terrible thing to waste. Europe risks finding out the truth of that statement the hard way.

I have asked the JRC to put together this special issue of the IPTS Report, which highlights the important work of the Central and Eastern European Network of Academies of Science. The articles published here not only provide a glimpse into the role of Academies of Science and the potential of research in the region, but also offer useful suggestions and bold ideas, ranging from institutional innovation to examining the interaction between science, technology and innovation, and the ways it can be construed.

Better integrating the research potential of Eastern Europe into the European Research Area is good for the Central and Eastern Europe countries and for Europe as a whole. It is an important part of our objective to develop a knowledge- based society and economy that deliver economic growth and quality of life. The EU's Seventh Framework Programme for research is an important plank in this strategy and will have measures specifically designed to unlock the potential of convergence regions, including those of Central and Eastern Europe.

We know from the past that missed opportunities can cost us dear. Experience is a good teacher, but she charges a lot for her lessons. I hope that we won't need extra study time in the future. The knowledge described in this publication is a good step in the right direction.

J a n e z P o t o č n i k Science and Research Commissioner

2 Note from the Editors

3 The Central- and Eastern European Network: An Instrument to Assist the European Integration Process DECEMBER 2006 The Central- and Eastern European Network provides an instrument for maintaining the focus on key issues and for exchanging experience and best practice among relevant actors in the EDITED BY THE INSTITUTE FOR PROSPECTIVE process of integration with the European scientific establishment. TECHNOLOGICAL STUDIES (IPTS) 11 The Hungarian Academy of Sciences and the World Science Forum PUBLISHED BY THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION The Hungarian Academy of Sciences is an independent body promoting science and culture. Joint Research Centre ISBN: 92-79-02302-0 One of its most prominent recent achievements has been the setting up of a biannual World Luxembourg: Office for Official Publications Science Forum at which a wide range of scientific topics of societal concern are discussed. of the European Communities 15 Science in Central and Eastern Europe at the Crossroads: Slovakia's Experience Catalogue Number: LF-X1-06-222-EN-C LEGAL DEPOSIT: The Slovak Republic’s economy has undergone a radical transformation in recent years, with profound effects on its S&T system. Its recent Competitiveness Strategy can give fresh impetus

EDITORS to its efforts to achieve Lisbon Agenda goals and catch up with its EU partners. Felix Unger 20 Bulgarian Science on the Eve of Accession to the European Union Gilbert Fayl Dimitris Kyriakou As the main body carrying out frontier research in Bulgaria, and given its links with other academies/institutions, the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences is well-placed to play a key role in ASSISTANT EDITOR integration with ERA and building regional networks, and so help revitalise the R&D system. Duncan Gilson 25 Towards a Knowledge-based Society Using a Network of Institutions in Central and WEBSITE Eastern Europe www.jrc.es/iptsreport A networked European Institute of Technology could build on existing local and regional institutions to foster mobility and cohesion in Europe. It would be cost effective and could be PRODUCTION CINDOC-CSIC/LIONBRIDGE developed rapidly with a relatively modest investment, forming a basis for further development. 31 Technology and Competitiveness in South-East Europe: the View from SASA PRINT Graesal The countries of South-East Europe need to identify and develop sources of competitive advantage that can help their economies modernise and grow in the knowledge age.

36 The Polish Academy of Science's Ochota Campus: A Competence Centre for Biomedical LEGAL NOTICES Research The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those Attracting and retaining high quality human capital is essential to any research strategy. The of the European Commission. interdisciplinary Ochota campus is an example of how creating a competence centre can © European Communities, 2006 foster the development of human capital Reproduction for non-commercial purposes is authorised provided the editor is informed in 40 Scientific Excellence Indicators of European Integration: the Example of MANU advance and the source is properly acknowledged. Centres of excellence have a range of societal impacts and can contribute to national Neither the European Commission nor any person sustainable development. The criteria by which they are defined, and the similarities with EU acting on behalf of the Commission is responsible for the use which might be made of this publication. project funding criteria, also make them useful in the integration of new EU members. 47 Czech Science in the European Research Area The Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic has undergone radical changes since the 90s and is pursuing international integration and networking to help develop Czech science.

51 The Latvian R&D Scene Following a thorough restructuring, the Latvian Academy of Sciences has established itself as a natural partner for bilateral and multilateral collaboration, and has found science prizes an effective way of generating interest in science and promoting science-industry ties.

55 The R&D Scene in Montenegro Policy initiatives in Montenegro aim to promote the knowledge society and facilitate convergence with the EU, while reflecting on the common questions on the role of academies of science in small transition economies

From the Editors

We are particularly honoured to edit this special issue, at the request of Commissioner Potočnik, presenting the Central-and-Eastern European Network of Academies of Science (CEEN). Recognising the importance of this initiative of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts, he kindly offered this vehicle in order to make this presentation more effective.

The articles and the Commissioner's preface highlight the need to promote the integration of Central- and-Eastern European research and technological development (RTD) into European RTD. This is more than an exercise in formally completing/anticipating integration as a consequence - or in anticipation of - accession to the EU. It is about Europe as a whole engaging and benefiting from one of the historically most prolific sources of RTD talent, a large pool of a key resource that is untapped, but also increasingly globally mobile.

We hope this volume helps bring these issues, and the activities of the CEEN in this regard, to the forefront.

Felix Unger European Academy of Sciences and Arts

Gilbert Fayl European Academy of Sciences and Arts

Dimitris Kyriakou The Institute for Prospective Technological Studies

The Central- and Eastern European Network: An Instrument to Assist the European Integration Process

Gilbert Fayl, Felix Unger, European Academy of Sciences and Arts

Issue: In 2003 when the date of EU enlargement was established, many of the then candidate countries were trailing behind the rest of the EU. These countries' scientific communities (academies, universities, research institutions, etc.) were facing particular challenges in connection with the process of European integration. The challenges were similar in nature for all of them. The same now applies to current and future candidate countries in East Europe.

Relevance: The science system in the Central and Eastern European countries is at a crossroads in its integration into the European scientific establishment, with the chosen path setting the tone for the foreseeable future. The Central- and Eastern European Network provides an instrument for maintaining the focus on key issues and for exchanging experience and best practice among relevant actors in this process.

The need for the Network almost 200 written inputs to the exercise, just a very few of them have dealt with issues of spe- he potential and opportunities offered to cific importance to the then candidate A few years ago no countries during their process of integration the scientific communities in Central and dedicated single Eastern Europe in the context of EU into the EU. mechanism existed that enlargement and, in turn, by these commu- focused on the potential Tnities to the rest of Europe and the world have not In turn, Europe has always been high on the of the scientific been fully realised. agenda of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts, EASA (F. Unger et al, 2002). Since its estab- communities in Central A few years ago no dedicated single mech- lishment, EASA has been a strong proponent of and Eastern Europe in anism existed that focused on the above issues. European unity (see Box 1). the context of EU Indeed, there was an evident lack of informa- enlargement. tion, and often knowledge and clarity, to In the context of EU enlargement the EASA set address these complex issues adequately. This up the Central- and Eastern European Network as was also demonstrated in the context of the a mechanism to address issues of importance for recent ”European Convention” exercise (Draft the Central and Eastern European countries and Treaty, 2003). While more than 80 “academic promote the exchange of information and best and think-tank” organisations have provided practices.

The views expressed here are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 4 Box 1. Letter to Valery Giscard d'Estaing, President of the Convention on the Future of Europe Excellency, Conc.: draft Constitution's Articles 3.1, 3.2 and 12.5 Regarding the above draft Articles, the European Academy of Sciences and Arts wishes to endorse the views of the European Research Advisory Board (EURAB) transmitted to the members of the Convention on 6 March 2003. The European Academy of Sciences and Arts (with its more than 1200 members - artists, doctors, ecologists, educators, lawyers, philosophers, politicians, scientists, sociologists, theologians, writers, etc. - amongst them several Nobel laureates) wishes to express its concern regarding the formulations of the draft Constitution's Articles 3.1, 3.2 and 12.5. In the opinion of the Academy, these formulations are unsatisfactory for the scientific community in the enlarged EU. The enlarged EU should result in even more possibilities for co-operation in scientific research. This enhanced dynamism will have a positive and direct impact on Europe's competitiveness and its socio- economic and political choices. The Academy has previously issued statements for the European Convention: dated 26 October 2002, 15 November 2002, and 24/25 January 2003, respectively. The Academy's "Heidelberg Cultural Manifesto On the Independence of Science, Art and Religion” focuses on the fundaments of the European civilization: sciences, arts and religion. The Academy feels that science, including humanities, and possibly even art, play an important role in societal change. Excellency, the European Academy of Sciences and Arts invites the Convention to help to establish the best conditions for scientific research and co-operation in the enlarged EU. Salzburg, 2nd May 2003. Yours sincerely, Prof. Dr. Felix Unger President of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts.

It was in the context described above that the The challenge for the Network was to identify EASA began to set up a mechanism that exclu- and address the most relevant common issues sively addresses issues of importance for the although the countries were of varying size and their Central and Eastern European countries and their national research systems were not identical. Neither scientific communities, called Central- and were their Academies' roles identical. Nevertheless, Eastern European Network. The ambitious label is they all faced similar integration challenges that had an expression for EASA's intention that participa- to be addressed by each of their respective scientific tion should be open to the then EU candidate communities. Assisting in this process is the rationale countries as well as countries in their eastern and behind the creation of the Network. south-eastern neighbourhood. In the context of EU The Network as an instrument for enlargement the EASA The Network was established with a two-fold dialogue set up the Central- and mission: (i) to identify issues which are critical for The Network provides a platform for dialogue Eastern European these countries during the European integration among the presidents of national academies of sci- Network as a process; and (ii) to promote information exchange ence from the countries in the region. In order to mechanism to address about national best practices in order to learn ensure an efficient face-to-face information issues of importance for from each other's experience on how best to oper- exchange, the presidents participate in their per- the Central and Eastern ate in the European Research Area (ERA). sonal capacity and do not represent their European countries and academies as such. When appropriate, a nominat- promote the exchange of Operating in a larger scientific area presented ed colleague represents the president. Thus, the information and best challenges for the countries themselves: while Network is a unique instrument to promote the practices. searching for new opportunities for research co- exchange of information of common interest operation in the ERA context, these countries had between “primus inter pares” in Central- and to make every effort to nurture recognised national Southeast Europe. scientific excellence and to maintain previously well-established scientific collaboration within and The Network sets its own agenda. Its reference beyond national borders. document, agreed at the inaugural meeting (Box 2),

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 suggests a set of broad issues to be addressed. The to work in a collegial and non-bureaucratic man- 5 most important ones are essential to enabling: (i) ner. The Network's limited membership ensures it optimal integration of CSE countries' scientific com- is able to operate efficiently. munities into the European scientific establishment, while maintaining “academic” freedom and inde- Why is the Network composed of pendence in the process; and (ii) these countries' Academy presidents? full integration into and enhanced co-operation The academy presidents in the CSE countries with the EU, while maintaining the necessary demo- play a central role in their national research systems. The Network provides a cratic accountability during the transition process. platform for dialogue The presidents participate at the highest level in among the presidents of In order to be able to provide input to wider RTD designing respective national research policies and national academies of policy related issues, as appropriate, the Network oversee research budgets under their academies' science from the formulates joint recommendations and initiates aegis. They are also in a prime position to signal broader discussions beyond its own sphere. key issues to their scientific communities at an countries in the region. appropriately high-level. In creating the Network, an effort was made to avoid any unnecessary duplication of national, The presidents are part of influential national inter-/trans-national and European initiatives, and and international networks. They have hands-on

Box 2. Organisational aspects

From the outset the City of Vienna has supported the Network and national science academies from the region have welcomed it. The Network meets twice a year at the invitation of one of the members; the latter chairs the meeting. Dr. Gilbert Fayl, EASA's Secretary of External Affairs provides the scientific secretariat. The working language is English. The Network has initially been established to have a duration of five years. The Mayor of Vienna hosted the first Network meeting on 10th October 2003. Participants included academy presidents or their representatives from Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Hungary, Latvia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Poland, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Slovak Republic and EASA. Representatives of Vienna City and the Institut für Donauraum und Mitteleuropa participated as observers. Subsequently two meetings have been held annually: Bratislava (2004), Vienna (2004), Brussels (2005), Ljubljana (2005), Budapest (2006) and Prague (2006). The Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts will host the Spring 2007 meeting. The Network has enlarged its membership since it began. The president of the Academy of Sciences and Arts of Montenegro joined it in 2005. A number of observers have also joined the Network. These include a representative of the European Commission (from its Institute of Prospective Technological Studies, JRC, Seville) in 2004 and a representative of World Academy of Art and Science in 2005. Some academies from the countries of the former Soviet Union have recently signalled their interest in joining the Network. As appropriate, experts were invited from European institutions, national administrations and other organisations such as the Association of Local Democracy Agencies. At the meeting in Ljubljana (October 2005), the invited experts were Prof. Jute Zupan, Slovenian Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology, and Dr. Janez Potoč nik, European Commissioner for Science and Research. The meeting was followed by an international symposium on “Natural Sciences in Contemporary Society“. Prof. Jerzy Busek, Member of the European Parliament and former Prime Minister of Poland, attended the meeting in Prague (November 2006). Prof. Busek is the rapporteur in the Parliament for the “7th framework programme of the European Community for research, technological development and demonstration activities (2007-2013)” The Prague meeting was another unique opportunity for the Network members to have a direct dialogue with senior European political leaders.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 6 Box 3. CEEN Ljubljana Declaration Reap the Rewards Ljubljana, 20 October 2005. The Central- and Eastern European Network (CEEN) of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts issued the following declaration at its meeting on 20 October 2005 in Ljubljana1: • Only with adequate funding will the 7th EU RTD Framework Programme become a cornerstone of the Lisbon Agenda. • The scientific potential of Central- and Southeast Europe can offer a significant contribution to the 7th EU RTD Framework Programme. • Investment is needed to reap the rewards of Central- and Southeast European potential. Reasoning The Lisbon Agenda will help ensure the future of the EU. However, it necessitates all EU Member States to make full use of their potential. Central- and Southeast Europe requires targeted policies to further the fruition of these countries into strong partners in the EU. The Lisbon Strategy and the 7th EU RTD Framework Programme • The Lisbon Agenda aims at improving the lives of Europeans by enhancing Europe's competitiveness. • Research and innovation enhance competitiveness. They require adequate funding. • The proposed budget of the 7th EU RTD Framework Programme (FP7) must be considered as an absolute minimum. The Scientific Potential of Central- and Southeast Europe • Central- and Southeast Europe can be important contributors to the successful implementation of the Lisbon Agenda. • The scientific potential of Central- and Southeast Europe is under-utilised. Full participation in the EU RTD Framework Programmes by researchers from Central- and Southeast Europe will result in more opportunities for the EU. • Adequate conditions are necessary in Central- and Southeast Europe to access its under-utilised potential. Promoting and fostering co-operation between science, higher education and business / industry will help activate this potential. Recommendations for Concrete Actions • Imbalances between New and Old Member States still persist. The situation can be effectively addressed by: • ensuring that the distribution of funding is equitable. The Western Balkan region requires particular attention; • common large-scale infrastructure projects of European interest, complementary small and medium sized infrastructure projects, and the update of existing infrastructures; • support to transnational research activities based on the existing ERA-NET concepts, as well as a dedicated fund to support project preparation. • Central- and Southeast Europe is challenged by the complex EU mechanisms. CEEN will welcome efforts undertaken by the EU Commission to: • co-ordinate specific support actions and mechanisms in FP7 with other EU programmes with relevance for research, education, and innovation; • simplify the administration, the funding schemes, the financial and reporting rules of FP7; • actively encourage and involve service providers from Central- and Southeast Europe. • The FP6 investment still needs to come to fruition. Analysis of its participation should be made, prior to fine-tuning FP7. Lessons must be drawn.

1 The European Parliament Rapporteur on FP7, Prof. Jerzy Busek, and the European Commissioner for Science and Research, Dr. Janez Potoč nik, received the Declaration.

experience and insight into national and inter- the exchange of information on research and research national research and research policies and policy of specific relevance to these countries. strategies. Political decision-makers at the highest level seek their advice. Providing a flexible framework for this dialogue and ensuring the availability of relevant As a consequence, dialogue among academy background information thus assists these coun- presidents is a direct and efficient means to facilitate tries in the process of European integration

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 Providing a flexible framework for dialogue and importance. To this end, the independence 7 ensuring the availability of relevant background and scientific authority of national information can assist CEE countries in the process Academies of Science must be preserved; of European integration. their scientific excellence must be nurtured. • Cultural diversity is Europe's unique The Network's experience so far strength. Humanities and cultural aspects must be included in national and European Discussions have focused on key EU related research programmes on an equal level The Network operates at issues such as the RTD Framework Programmes, with natural sciences and economics. presidential level to keep European Research Council, European Institute of • Linguistic diversity is an essential element of Technology, and the Commission's initiative on cultural diversity. But the practical use of it small and to ensure the scientific advice (SINAPSE). minority languages steadily decreases. involvement of actors There is a danger that these languages could participating at the Other important issues dealt with have deteriorate and in the long term maybe van- highest level in designing included national contributions to the establish- ish. National and European efforts are national research ment of a knowledge-based society, cultural needed to avoid this development. policies and overseeing and linguistic diversity, the brain drain from the • Brain drain away from the Central- and research budgets. Central and Eastern European countries, the ini- Eastern European countries is weakening tiative of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences the region's scientific competitiveness. “World Science Forum”, as well as various National and European funds are needed to EASA initiatives (the “Health is Wealth” strate- help excellent scientists to continue gic exercise for European health care in the 21st research in their native countries or to century; a study by the EASA Spanish return there under conditions comparable Delegation on the consequences of EU enlarge- to those abroad.” ment on EU policies; the “Central- and Southeast European Innovation Area” initiative). The “Ljubljana Declaration” (October 2005) Promoting democratic development in the that conveys the following message to political Balkan region was another issue the Network leaders: dealt with. “• Only with adequate funding will the 7th EU RTD Framework Programme become a cor- After each meeting, the Network issued a set nerstone of the Lisbon Agenda. of recommendations or a declaration focusing • The scientific potential of Central- and Providing a flexible on current RTD policy related issues. These have Southeast Europe can offer a significant contri- framework for dialogue th been transmitted to relevant political leaders in bution to the 7 EU RTD Framework and ensuring the the European Parliament and European Programme. availability of relevant Commission and, as appropriate, in the member • Investment is needed to reap the rewards of background states. The presidents of EURAB (the European Central- and Southeast European potential.” information can assist Commission's own scientific advisory body) as CEE countries in the well as of ALLEA, Academia Europaea and The underlying reasoning of this important process of European Euroscience were kept informed about these message is summarised in Box 3. integration. developments. In another declaration on a “European The following are examples of research poli- Institute of Technology“ (November 2005), the cy related statements / recommendations issued Network formulated the following position: by the Network: “• The [members of the] Network recognises that a European Institute of Technology (EIT) In the “Vienna Recommendations” (October could benefit Europe. 2003) the Network highlighted the following: • EIT must receive adequate funds and the “• National contributions to the establishment structure must be flexible to attract world- of a knowledge-based society are of major class individuals.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 8 • EIT must be established as a network tion was supported by 15 Science Academies between excellent research groups and uni- (Box. 5). This was a clear indication for the versity faculties.” Network's timely and useful contribution to the ongoing debate about necessary funds for It should be noted that this is broadly in line research. with the Commission's communication on the EIT (COM(2006) 276 final, 8.6.2006). The way forward After each meeting, the The Network is a complementary means of assist- Network issues a set of The interaction through the Network mech- ing the countries concerned and their scientific anism enabled EASA to issue constructive CSE communities in the European integration process. This recommendations or a related policy statements together with ALLEA, is a key aspect of the Network's mission. declaration focusing on Academia Europaea, Euroscience and ESF. These The Network's operation and choice of sub- current RTD policy have also been transmitted to relevant actors in jects are not restricted by institutional rules. The related issues, which it this policy area. An example of a joint statement informality ensures that the Network is able to circulates among is given in Box 4. operate efficiently and respond to new develop- relevant policymakers ments in a timely manner. in Europe and the At its Budapest meeting the Network raised its member states. voice in support of adequate funds for EU The Network has various unique value added research for the period 2007-2013. The declara- features.

Box 4. Statement on the occasion of the completion of the present stage of the EU enlargement

The European Federation of National Academies of Sciences and Humanities, the European Academy of Sciences and Arts, the Academia Europaea, and Euroscience acknowledge the historic significance of the accession of ten new member states to the European Union,

The new member states and the entire European Union are now facing major challenges as well as great opportunities in the new enlarged European Union. The historic event of May 1st 2004 will promote better understanding between peoples and nations, and contribute to a more prosperous and peaceful Europe.

Our organisations have always treated Europe as one united area. We have always considered the contribution of Central and East European scientists and scholars as an indispensable part of European culture. Now, political realism finally converges with the aspirations of the scientific community.

The European Federation of National Academies of Sciences and Humanities, the European Academy of Sciences and Arts, the Academia Europaea, and Euroscience will continue to express their support for the process of enlargement. We stress that it is in the very best interest of all European citizens.

Amsterdam / Salzburg / London / Strasbourg, May 2004.

On behalf of:

European Federation of National Academies of Sciences and Humanities, ALLEA, Prof. Dr. Pieter J.D. Drenth, President.

European Academy of Sciences and Arts, Prof. Dr. Felix Unger, President

Academia Europaea, Prof. Dr. Jürgen Mittelstrass, President

Euroscience, Prof. Jean-Patrick Connerade, President

In view of the forthcoming European Council on 15/16 June 2006, the Central- and Eastern European Network issued the following declaration on 26 May 2006 in Budapest:

• The Network fully supports the “Declaration of the Forum of the Visegrad Group of Academies of Sciences” formulated on 24-25 April 2006 in Prague. The Network regrets2 that funding allocated for EU research for the period 2007-2013 is considerably below the level requested by the European Commission and recommended by the scientific community. It is inadequate to boost Europe's competitiveness.

• The Network invites the EU leaders to compensate for this within the agreed multi-annual Financial Perspective. Structural Funds must be specifically used to support R&D and innovation related initiatives including research infrastructure. This would be particularly important for the countries represented in the Network. These countries have significant intellectual potential and could offer important contributions to the 7th EU RTD Framework Programme and the Competitiveness and Innovation Framework Programme.

• The Network wishes to restate that a European Institute for Technology must receive adequate funds and its structure must be flexible to attract world-class individuals. The initiative must not be at the expense of other EU funded research activities including social sciences and humanities. The The Network is well Network is looking forward to a more elaborated proposal. placed to make its voice

The Network requests the European Academy of Sciences and Arts to ensure the transmission of heard on broader this document to the Heads of State or Government prior to the forthcoming European Council3. science policy related matters from the The Budapest Declaration is supported by the: European Academy of Sciences and Arts particular perspective Academy of Sciences and Arts of Bosnia and Herzegovina of the countries it Bulgarian Academy of Sciences represents. Its opinion Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic is a constructive Hungarian Academy of Sciences addition to the other Latvian Academy of Sciences Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts scientific advice the EU Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts institutions receive. Polish Academy of Sciences Romanian Academy Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts Slovak Academy of Sciences Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts World Academy of Art and Science

Andrzej B. Legocki Stefan Luby President of the Polish Academy of Sciences President of the Slovak Academy of Sciences

Václav Pač es Sylvester E. Vizi President of the Academy of Sciences President of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic

2 Reference is made to the Network’s previous declarations of 10 Oct. 2003 (Vienna), 23 Apr. 2004 (Bratislava), 29 Oct. 2004 (Vienna), 20 Oct. 2005 (Ljubljana) and 14 Nov. 2005. 3 Subsequently, the document was transmitted to the Austrian Administration (EU Presidency).

It provides an efficient platform for EU related Moreover, the Network is well placed to research and research policy information make its voice heard on broader science exchanges with the participation of the most rele- policy related matters from the particular vant individuals. In this process the focus is on perspective of the countries it represents. Its the interest of the CSE region. opinion is a constructive addition to the other

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 10 scientific advice the EU institutions receive. It about the Network, its work and output is is important to note that the Network does regularly forwarded to relevant individuals. not replace any institutionally established inter- or transnational academic discourse or To summarise, the Network has a clear mis- compete with it. Indeed, it is a useful volun- sion and value added for the countries in the tary complement. In this spirit, information region and their scientific communities.

Keywords Integration of Central- and Southeast Europe, Network, ERA.

Acknowledgements The authors are grateful to Mr. Ulric Fayl von Hentaller for his ongoing contributions to the work of Central About the authors and Eastern European Network and to Prof. György Pethes for his contribution in connection with the Gilbert Fayl Network's establishment. is the Secretary of External Affairs of the European References Academy of Sciences and Arts. Previously he has • Communication from the Commission to the European Council, The European Institute of Technology: worked in science policy at further steps towards its creation, COM(2006)276 final, 8.6.2006. the European Commission. In the 1980s he was a member • European Convention, Draft Treaty establishing a Constitution for Europe, Submitted to the President of of the core team responsible the European Council in Rome on 18 July 2003. for the initiation and • F. Unger, N. Lobkowicz, G Pethes, G. Fayl, European Academy of Sciences and Arts - A Holistic conceptual formulation of the European RTD Framework Network for the Sciences and Humanities: The European Academy of Sciences and Arts, The IPTS Programme. Subsequently Report (70) 2002. he has been S&T and Education Counsellor at the Commission's Delegation to Contact the USA, Head of RTD Gilbert Fayl, European Academy of Sciences and Arts. Programme Evaluation and Head of Relations with E-mail: [email protected] Scientific Advisory Bodies at the Headquarters in Brussels. He has a Ph.D. in physical sciences. Felix Unger is the President of the European Academy of Sciences and Arts. He is a Professor of Surgery and Head of the Department of Cardiac Surgery in Salzburg. Beside his clinical work, he has published 14 books and over 400 articles. His main scientific contribution was the first implantation of an artificial heart in Europe in 1986 and developing trailblazing new technology in cardiac surgery. Out of the clinical work he promotes the interdisciplinarity and transnationality in all fields of sciences setting new future trends. He has received 4 Honorary Doctorates in medical sciences.

Attila Meskó, Hungarian Academy of Sciences

Issue: Analyses of science-society interactions often underscore the importance of addressing problems in an interdisciplinary and systemic manner; the importance of building bridges between cultures and generations, measuring impact and ensuring large- scale dissemination and most importantly, the need for new models of education. Scientists share the responsibility not only of educating future generations but also for developing new, knowledge-based and ethical leadership.

Relevance: Due to the complexity of science today, the relationship between academia, government, the business sector, and other actors in society needs to be recast. This process in turn demands new models for science funding, education, and communication.

s a part of its activities the Hungarian The aim is for this biannual event to enhance the The Hungarian Academy Academy of Sciences (see Box 1) or its mem- quality of the dialogue on the new roles of scien- of Sciences has bers take part in about 120 international tific knowledge and the challenges it faces within organised several today's global Society. The outcome feeds into the organisations including UNESCO, the European and world AInternational Council of Scientific Unions (ICSU), science policy arena in Europe and beyond. conferences. In the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the particular, it has InterAcademy Panel, the Interacademy Council, So far, scientists, politicians, and decision mak- established the World European Science Fund, Academia Europaea etc., ers from more than 100 countries from all over the Science Fourm - and several research programmes of international world have participated in the work of the World organisations e.g. that of the European Union, Science Forum, making it a unique and in all sens- Budepeast, a conference NATO, NSF. es a diverse event. series on science, knowledge and society, Along these lines the Hungarian Academy of Given that the UNESCO has marked the 10th of in conjunction with Sciences has organised several European and world November as ”World Science Day”, the World UNESCO and the ICSU. conferences. In particular, in 1999, in conjunction Science Forum takes place biannually in Budapest with UNESCO and the ICSU, the Hungarian on and around the 10th of November. The first Academy of Sciences organised the first World World Science Forum, held in 2003, focused on Conference on Science (WCS) in Budapest. ”Knowledge and Society”. The second World Science has played an Delegates of the WCS suggested a series of follow-up Science Forum, in 2005, dealt with ”Knowledge, explicitly recognised role conferences. Inspired by the impact of the WCS and Ethics and Responsibility”. The topic of the World with a view to promoting the dialogue on the new Science Forum 2007, which took place 8 to 10 in significant public roles and new challenges of scientific knowledge November 2007, was ”Investing in Knowledge: policy decisions at least within today's global society the HAS, in partnership Investing in the Future”. since the introduction of with UNESCO and the International Council of the atomic bomb, and Scientific Unions (ICSU), has established the "World The topics covered at the first World continues to do so to this Science Forum - Budapest", a world conference Science Forum - Budapest, which dealt with day, for instance, in the series on science, knowledge and society. “Knowledge and Society”, were Knowledge and case of issues such as stem cells. The views expressed here are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 12 Quality of Life; Knowledge, Environment and diversity, increased atmospheric concentrations of Development; Science and Knowledge; Knowledge- greenhouse gases, etc. based Society; Information-based Society and Knowledge; and, the Knowledge-based Economy. The scientific community investigates these issues thoroughly in all their complexity and pro- The second World Science Forum, focused on vides a firm scientific basis for a better “Knowledge, ethics and responsibility”, took place understanding and improved awareness of these in 2005, again in partnership with UNESCO and problems, for the formulation of relevant strategies, The environment is a ICSU. In addition to the plenary sessions, response policies, measures and effective actions prominent example of an 6 thematic sessions and two special sessions were by societies in general and decision-makers, in par- area where the scientific held. These inspired the analysis on the role of ticular. community has been science that follows. called upon to improve Such strategies, in order to be effective, should our understanding and Science has played a role in significant public involve and engage the private sector. This brings us awareness of the policy decisions at least since the introduction of the to the role of business in sustainable growth. The problems and give its atomic bomb, and continues to do so to this day, for purpose of globally responsible businesses is to cre- views on appropriate instance, in the case of issues such as stem cells. ate economic and social progress in a responsible strategies, measures and The interaction between scientists and policy- and sustainable way. In the light of the Millennium actions that can be makers has never been easy, and at times has been Development Goals (MDGs) and the UN Global taken. contentious. Scientists often feel that public policy is Compact, and acting in accordance with a yet to be made without proper understanding of the scien- established Code of Global Business Ethics and tific issues, while public policy professionals and Global Governance, businesses have the capacity decision-makers sometimes tend to dismiss the to lead the way and show responsible leadership in views of scientists as too narrow. But at least since partnership with the multiple stakeholders of society the harnessing of nuclear energy for military pur- towards sustainable development that has a realistic poses, there has been a need to improve this future. dialogue in which the parties sometimes appear to be speaking past each other. For this to happen, the forces of scientific advancement - a main driver for development in The harnessing of nuclear energy has also seen society - must find common ground with the busi- non-military purposes. The debate on nuclear ness world, which has become one of the most power, for instance, is linked to environmental con- influential actors worldwide, with a tremendous siderations. The earth's environment provides all opportunity and a global responsibility to shape a The scientific community basic conditions and resources for our life and for sustainable world for today's and tomorrow's gen- also has a role to play in the life of all living organisms. Our activities have erations. tackling problems serious influences on these conditions: we use nat- affecting developing ural resources and release pollution/waste to These opportunities and responsibilities affect environmental media. We have inherited an envi- not only developed but also developing countries. countries, such as ronment in a particular state, and future generations The latter face enormous problems - poverty, malnutrition, inadequate will inherit an environment which will be different hunger, malnutrition, epidemics, environmental water supplies, as a result of both natural and anthropogenic degradation, dwindling natural resources and acute epidemics, etc. and also processes. We are responsible for these changes, shortages of energy and drinking water. The global in addressing the especially for those, which happen because of our population exceeded 6 billion at the beginning of apparent de facto activities (or through our inaction) and which con- this century, and it is expected to touch the 9 billion exclusion of these tribute to the degradation of natural resources and to mark by 2050. Nearly 90% of them will reside in countries from scientific potentially irreversible changes in the state of the developing countries. activity environment. Our influences on the environment have significantly increased and accelerated for the Science is by its nature international, yet much past century and reached global scale, e.g., the of the world's population is left out of this process, depletion of the ozone layer, loss of biological creating a knowledge gap alongside the income

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 Box 1.The Hungarian Academy of Sciences Functions of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences 13 The Hungarian Academy of Sciences (HAS) was established in 1825 as a private The Hungarian Academy of Sciences serves a threefold function in Hungarian scientific initiative to champion the advancement of science and culture in Hungary. It has and public life, acting as a scientific workshop, a national scientific advisory body, and therefore rightly been regarded as a national institution throughout its 180-year as a public body representing the professional interests of researchers. history. In accordance with its traditions, the Academy continues to play an active role in the life of the state and the nation. The Parliament of the Hungarian Republic The Academy as a scientific workshop passed an act defining the legal status of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in Today the Hungarian Academy of Sciences is a nationwide public body based on the 1994. This declares that the Academy is an independent public body based on the principles of autonomy and self-government. It has some 12,000 members with principle of self-government. It currently has more than eleven thousand members degrees in the sciences. It operates an efficient network of research institutes, which is who participate in the work of more than 120 special committees maintained by active in almost all fields of the natural sciences, social sciences and humanities. Its the Academy's eleven scientific sections. research personnel of about 2500 scholars and scientists make up one-sixth of all The rights and duties of the Academy include supporting the cultivation of sci- researchers working in Hungary, but their output (publications, citations, participation ences, scientific research and the publication of scientific books and periodicals, in international projects etc.) accounts for more than a third of the national total. regular evaluation of scientific results as well as the encouragement of their pub- The Hungarian state sought to apply modern principles to the organisation of scientific lications, dissemination and utilisation, representing, within its sphere of activity in the country when it placed research institutes, founded and owned by the state, responsibilities, Hungarian science in Hungarian public life and international sci- under the supervision of an independent authority (the corps of academicians) instead of entific forums, maintaining relations and organising cooperation with the an executive power (ministry). The act passed in 1994 by the freely elected Hungarian international scientific community. The Academy maintains research institutes Parliament both strengthens the essential autonomy of the network of research institutes and supports research groups affiliated with universities. The Hungarian within the Academy and makes it possible for the 'owner' (the state) and the 'manager' Academy of Sciences has 16 institutes for social sciences and humanities and 26 (the Academy's public body) to assign new tasks and measure achievement. institutes for natural sciences. The number of staff is about 5800 including over In the 1980s, the research institutes and universities worked out a system of co-opera- 2500 researchers. tion for undertaking joint scientific work by the university chairs and the research The General Assembly is the supreme body of the Academy as an independent institutes and enabling employees of the latter to teach at universities. The aim is to public-law association, constituted by ordinary and corresponding members, and develop closer co-operation between the state-owned research centres and the state 200 representatives of non-academician members who are elected by secret bal- university faculties. It is also planned to increase the role of academic institutes in post- lot for a three-year term. They may be re-elected once for an additional three-year graduate training. term. The General Assembly adopts the Statutes, the Bylaws and the annual bud- Traditionally, the Academy operates research teams at universities. A number of jobs get of the Academy, and determines the science policy principles and are assigned to university chairs, while the university guarantees facilities and other programmes affecting the entire work of the Academy. It discusses and approves research conditions. 171 research groups work to the end of 2006 and 79 new groups the biennial report submitted to the Parliament on both the Academy and the gen- will continue from the 1st of January 2007. The new groups have already been chosen eral state of science in Hungary, and the annual report presented to the by a competitive process based on peer reviews and an evaluation session. As the total Government on the Academy's activity. The General Assembly elects the leading budget has not changed, the new groups represent a better concentration of resources officials of the Academy, and also the members of both the Presidium and the on solving scientific problems. (For more information see the English language web- Council of the Academy's Research Units.Today, the Academy is maintained site: www.mta.hu/english). mostly by state subsidy and 30-35% of its budget comes from the income of its The Hungarian Academy of Sciences is, by tradition, the forum of debate for top own activities, which are mainly entrepreneurial activities linked to research, as Hungarian scientific researchers. Its sections organise scientific debates and confer- well as fees and grants earned from external sources, including EU framework ences, as well as inaugural lectures for new members. Both corresponding and programmes. ordinary members must hold inaugural lectures at a public meeting. It also holds lectures by young researchers before a panel of academicians. Furthermore, the Academy Membership of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences regularly hosts interdisciplinary round-table discussions and conferences, the aim of Similarly to the Hungarian academic qualification system, the Hungarian Academy which is to present the latest scientific achievements of public body members, to set of Sciences is a two-tier organisation. Researchers with a Ph.D. form the first tier. The forth questions and topics that may be of public interest, and encourage debate. second tier consists of members who have also met the requirements of the Academy's own qualification system and have earned the title of Doctors of the The role of the Academy as the nation's scientific advisory body Academy. This requires candidates to write a scientific dissertation. The relevant sec- Every two years the Academy reports to Parliament on the situation of science, the tions of the Academy then prepare a report on the candidates' previous research results of scientific research and the state of research in Hungary and every year the activity, appoint referees to give an opinion of the dissertation, and give the candi- Academy reports on its activity to the Government. date the opportunity to defend his dissertation in an open debate. If successful, the The Hungarian Academy of Sciences, as a public body of scientists, works out long-term candidate is awarded the title of Doctor of the Academy. There are about 2600 science policy concepts. In 1996, the government assigned the Academy the task of people with this title today. preparing a long-term survey of the state of Hungarian science at the turn of the millen- The academicians select the new members of the Academy from the Doctors of nium. The scientific elite must take part in the investigation of alternatives concerning the Academy. The election process is transparent and democratic. Scientific opportunities open to the Hungarian State and the Hungarian nation in the 21st century. Sections put forward proposals after thorough discussions and evaluation. This is why we say that the Hungarian Academy of Sciences is an optimal forum for rais- Detailed information on the candidates, including CV, list of publications and other ing long-term questions and working out alternative solutions, where party politics do relevant data appear on the homepage of the academy at least six months before not play a part. In this way it may serve as the nation's scientific advisory body. election. The periodical “Magyar Tudomány” publishes the summaries in its It was with this in mind that we launched the Strategic Studies at the Hungarian December issue. Election itself takes place first in the scientific sections in March. Academy of Sciences programme in the autumn of 1996, so as to allow the Academy The presidium supervises the resulting lists and proposes a final list of candidates to become this new forum for public life. Since then strategic investigations and syn- to the general Assembly in May. In both cases the means is a secret ballot and only theses of selected issues resulted in about 100 books dealing with relevant problems in those who obtain more than 50 percent of votes are considered. First, members science, health issues, industry, agriculture, the environment, energy, etc. are granted corresponding membership, then, based on subsequent scientific achievement, they become ordinary members. The law stipulates that the International activities of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences Academy have 365 members or less altogether and not more than 200 members The Academy signed 79 scientific agreements with academies or other partner organi- under 70 years of age, but those over 70 also retain full membership. Elections are sations in 52 countries. Exchange programmes in the year 2005 included a total of 9250 held with a period of three years. The last election was in May 2004, resulting in 49 days for about 700 researchers (outbound) and a total over 8100 days of about 900 new members. There are currently about 340 members. Doctors and members of research visitors (inbound). the Academy receive regular financial support guaranteed by the Hungarian State. Hungary has the same rights and obligations as EU Member States within Framework About two-thirds of members were elected after 1990 and more than half of the Programmes. In FP 5 six institutes were selected as “centres of excellence” and doctors got their title after that date, i.e. after the changes which made Hungary a Hungary participated in over 800 projects of which HAS accounts for 23% and obtained free democratic state. about 65 million euros of which 28% helped research institutes of the Academy.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 14 gap. Science is essential not only for the develop- science seeks to understand the fundamental char- ment of knowledge, but also as a basis for the acter of interactions between nature and society and development of technologies and national innov- to harness science and technology in the quest to ation systems for economic growth. Moreover, achieve transitions to sustainable development. The decision-making needs to be based on the best problem-driven nature of sustainability science available science and technology, which are implies a new “social contract for science”. Making becoming increasingly important for development. such a “new contract” a reality will require changes Case studies of countries such as India, Brazil, in both the “demand” and the “supply” sides of sci- China, etc. provide useful examples. ence and technology for sustainable development.

As well as searching The role of India, in particular, as an emerging Conclusions for scientific and global innovation hub in science and technology, In closing, the main points we would like to technological solutions together with its growing role in the area of highlight are the following: to the problems of Information and Communication technologies, is • Due to the complexity of science today, the rela- sustainability, science noteworthy. In fact, although considered a devel- tionship between academia, government, the oping country, India is recognised as a developed business sector, and other actors in society needs needs to embrace country as far as the intellectual infrastructure is to be recast. This process in turn demands new sustainability as part of concerned. The situation of capacity building in models for science funding, education, and its ethos. Scientists science in the developing countries reflects the communication; share the responsibility important role of science education and the fun- • To fully benefit from the opportunities of capac- not only of educating damental role of the Universities in fostering ity building, experiences and good practices future generations but capacity building in science. should be exchanged and shared worldwide; also of developing new, • It is essential to foster mutual understanding to knowledge-based and Overall, training a new generation of problem- bridge the cultural gap between science and ethical leadership. solving scientists and turning science into a business, with particular attention paid to inter- demand driven exercise are very important goals. connectedness, interdependence, ethics and The analyses underscore the importance of human values; addressing problems in an interdisciplinary and • The rapidly widening gap in capacity, scientific systemic manner; the importance of building knowledge and achievements in science and bridges between cultures and generations, measur- technology among different countries and ing impact and ensuring large-scale dissemination regions should be eliminated by strengthening and most importantly, the need for new models of South-South and South-North cooperation; education. Scientists share the responsibility not • Intrinsic ecological values need to be recog- only of educating future generations but also of nised, including the greater community of life developing new, knowledge-based and ethical with which we share the planet, and the need to leadership. maintain the evolutionary potential of life itself; • It is never too early to interest children in science Finally, sustainability science - a discipline that - and once enthused, they will become a new About the author has emerged in recent years - has a special impor- generation with a crucially improved under- Attila Meskó tance both for science and education. Sustainability standing of science. has an MA and PhD in Geophysics. He was elected to the Hungarian Academy of Sciences (HAS) in 1995 and has since been Deputy Secretary General Keywords (1999) and Secretary General (2005). His Hungarian Academy of Sciences, World Science Forum, science and society, UNESCO, ICSU research interests include geophysics, environment Contact and sustainability. He has published 19 books and A. Meskó, Secretary General of HAS over 200 papers. e-mail: [email protected]

Ján Slezák, Slovak Academy of Sciences

Issue: Science and technology are increasingly transforming our relationship with the world, changing our perceptions of nature, the environment and ourselves, as well as bringing about changes in society. The adoption of the European Union's Seventh Research Framework Programme, in the context of expanding R&D expenditure, increased international cooperation, the creation of a European Research Area (ERA), and the desire to make better use of scientific knowledge, are helping create a vibrant atmosphere in the S&T community. However, all these factors raise issues that need to be reflected upon and discussed at both national and European levels

Relevance: Slovakia faces a number of challenges in connection with implementation of the Lisbon Strategy through its Competitiveness Strategy for the Slovak Republic until 2010. This strategy, the National Reform Programme, the National Science and Technology Development Programme and other important programmes are intended to enable Slovakia to converge with the most scientifically and economically advanced European countries.

European integration: the challenges gate proportion of expenditures on research and The main brake on for the scientific community development will have reached 1.8 per cent of progress in science and GDP and the share of expenditures from the state research in Slovakia is ver the past decade Slovak research and budget 0.6 per cent. insufficient funding. In science has seen numerous challenges to fact, since 2000 there the process of Slovakia's integration into However, the reality of S&T funding in Slovakia has been a relative the European Union. is that the pledged year-on-year growth in science decline in public funding O and technology spending has not been achieved. In for science and An important brake on progress in science and fact, relative to GDPs since 2000 there has been a technology. research in Slovakia is insufficient funding. At the relative decline in the proportion of spending com- Barcelona Summit in March 2002, the European ing from the national budget. And although the Union confirmed the focus on science and tech- situation in 2005 and 2006 seems to suggest a turn- nology (S&T) and called for a systematic increase in ing point, inadequate funding of S&T in Slovakia is funding with the setting of a target of having a negative impact upon both its current and 3 per cent of GDP for S&T spending in 2010, a future economic and social progress, leading to third of which is envisaged to come from national falling standards in higher education and many Surveys conducted by budgets. This gave a further boost to the agenda set Slovak researchers opting to work abroad. the Slovak Statistical at the Lisbon summit of 2000, which set out to Office and the Ministry make the EU the most competitive and dynamic Surveys conducted by the Slovak Statistical of Education suggest that knowledge-driven economy by 2010. However, Office and the Ministry of Education suggest that given its economic constraints, the Slovak govern- since 1989 the country's research and development since 1989 the country's ment modified the objectives set at the Barcelona base has shrunk considerably, with a drop in the R&D base has shrunk and Lisbon summits such that by 2010 the aggre- number of employees in R&D, as well as a decline considerably.

The views expressed here are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 16 Box 1. Other R&D policy initiatives and programmes The Act on the Organisation of State Support for Research and Development On July 1st, 2005 Act No. 172 / 2005 Coll. on the organisation of state support for research and development entered into force. This Act sets out the conditions under which state support for research and development may be given, the position and the role of the authorities operating in the area of science and technology, including the Research and Development Support Agency (See Box 3), the long-term objectives of the State Science and Technology Policy, the National Science and Technology Development Programme and the information technology support for research and development. The system of science and technology disciplines envisaged in the Act is divided into the following groups: a) natural sciences, b) technical sciences, c) medical sciences, d) agricultural sciences, e) social sciences, f) humanities. The National Science and Technology Development Programme The National Science and Technology Development Programme has been drawn up to cover a period of at least three budgetary years. The draft National Science and Technology Development Programme was prepared by the Ministry of Education, in cooperation with the ministries responsible for other sections of the budget. The State Research and Development Programme The State Research and Development Programme addresses key issues in the area of development and meeting society's needs. The State Research and Development Programme specifies in detail the areas of science and technology in which research and development efforts are to be concentrated or intensified with the aim of increasing the economic and social usefulness of this area and contributing to achieving high level international recognition for Slovak R&D efforts. The State Research and Development Programme is implemented in the form of research and development projects. The State Research and Infrastructure Development Programme The State Research and Infrastructure Development Programme will be performed in the form of the implementation of development projects and is targeted at creating and improving conditions for the implementation of research and development projects, especially by means of modernisation and improvement of the technical infrastructure for R&D.

In the early 1990s the in financial support earmarked for science and tech- industrial research plunged by over 50 per cent. disappearance of the nology. After 1995, the progress of employment in At present the 30 R&D organisations belonging to country's traditional research and development can be seen to be divid- the Union of Industrial Research and Development markets and the drop in ed into two distinct stages: in the early part of the Organisations employ a total of just over 3,500 period (1995-1998), the overall number of employ- people. industrial output led to ees in research and development stabilised, then, in many R&D organisations the later part (1999-2003) there was a notable Expanding and modernising the R&D infrastruc- cutting back their decline in R&D employee numbers. ture, and enabling R&D outputs to be exploited research activities commercially, rank among key issues and chal- drastically. However, in terms of the aggregate number of lenges facing science and technology in Slovakia. employees in research and development, the pro- High-class infrastructure is not only one of the fun- portion of employees with first degrees, science damental conditions for participation in degrees or post-graduate qualifications has risen. international projects, but is also a crucial factor in The increase in this proportion may be explained by the establishment of centres of excellence and other a strategy underway at the micro-level whereby pro- top-class facilities. It was found that the proportion Slovakia has participated ductive research scientists are retained at the of outdated technical equipment is as high as 66.1 successfully in expense of less qualified ancillary staff. per cent (classed as equipment 8 years old or more). multilateral international Under current law on state support for research and S&T cooperation One significant positive outcome is that during science, the infrastructure for science and research the transformation of Slovak industry's R&D base is is expected to be supported through the so-called projects, particularly in that all the organisations affected maintained their developmental programmes for science and devel- the context of the EU's original sectoral orientation in research and development infrastructure. Also, the action plan for 6th Framework opment. In the early 1990s, as a result of the science, research, and innovation proposed that Programme. However, disappearance of the country's traditional markets infrastructure be supported through the so-called this has not led to and a sharp drop in output from domestic industry, national centres of excellence. significant changes in individual R&D organisations were forced to cut conditions at Slovakia's their research activities drastically. Compared to Slovakia's participation in multilateral interna- research institutions. 1990, the overall total number of employees in tional co-operation in science and technology is

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 generally considered successful, especially that in research capacities, financial resources and 17 the EU's framework programmes for research and research infrastructure. technological development. The results of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) achieved an increase Furthermore, the Academy is fostering co-opera- The Slovak Academy of in the number of Slovak participants over the period tion with potential users of R&D outputs through: Sciences, as Slovakia's from 2003 to 2005; however, this participation did • stronger contacts with industry at all levels, rang- leading body in scientific not bring about the hoped for changes in conditions ing from small and medium-sized research, is backing a 1 at research institutions . businesses/enterprises up to big firms, programme of research • new forms of co-operation, aiming at participa- through its institutions The "Competitiveness Strategy for the Slovak tion in the innovation process, particularly in that is consistent with the Republic until 2010", approved by the government pivotal industrial branches (e.g. car manufactur- priorities of both of the Slovak Republic in February 2005, aims to ing, chemicals, and agrofoods sectors). Slovakia and the EU. implement the goals of the Lisbon Strategy at national level appears to offer a fresh hope for the The funding granted through the EU framework future of Slovak science and research2. programmes represent significant off-budgetary sources. Support for research and development by Key policy issues from the perspective of the private sector in the Slovak Republic is still Slovakia is still lacking a the Slovak Academy of Sciences somewhat limited. Above all, what is still lacking is stable segment of small- The Slovak Academy of Sciences (SAS), the most a stable segment of small- or medium-sized enter- or medium-sized prestigious centre fostering basic research in tech- prises that perceive R&D and innovation as playing enterprises that perceive nology, natural sciences, social sciences and the a role in their long-term prosperity. There is also a R&D and innovation as humanities in Slovakia, is backing a programme of lack of incentives and other support from the state. research and development at its institutes that is Foreign investors tend to follow their own invest- playing a role in their congruent with the priorities of Slovakia and the ment strategies and only sporadically address long-term prosperity. European Union. The research areas covered domestic institutions engaged in research and With the exception of the include the broad categories of health and food, development. Perhaps the exception is the car car industry, foreign nanotechnology, biotechnology, information and industry, which is currently being extensively devel- investors tend not to communication technologies, materials and pro- oped in various parts of Slovakia and for which a engage with domestic duction technologies, energy, environment, and project has already been designed bringing together R&D capabilities. research focusing on population safety and security. domestic R&D institutions and educational facili- The social sciences and humanities play an indis- ties. Through its programme, the Academy actively pensable role in studies on the functioning of Slovak participates through its advocating, endorsing and society, focusing particularly on its economy, politi- monitoring statements of intent and decisions cal system, and culture. adopted by decision-makers relating to support for research and development in Slovakia, encompass- The space in which scientific research takes ing all its aspects, including institutions, personnel, place in Slovakia shapes the Academy's coopera- and infrastructure. The Academy also aims to tion with institutions in the education sector, as well remain active in promoting the recognition of as in the state, business, entrepreneurship, and non- importance of research and development in strate- profit sectors. This cooperation is targeted at the gic and conceptual documents relating to Slovakia. effective utilisation and development of scientific In collaboration with other partners, the Academy

Box 2. Sectoral Structure of Research and Development in Slovakia For statistical purposes, legal entities (whose registered office is in the Slovak Republic) and resident natural persons carrying out research and development are classified as belonging to the following R&D sectors: a) the state sector, which consists of the Slovak Academy of Sciences and legal entities conducting research and development which have been established by central government bodies, b) universities, including public universities, state universities and private universities and legal entities established by them to conduct research and development, c) the non-profit sector, which consists of civil associations, non-profit organisations, business associations, and natural persons (other than entrepreneurs) conducting research and development, d) the business sector, including entrepreneurs that conduct research and development within their business activities.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 18 aims to encourage rapid incorporation of Slovakia Sustainable economic growth is the chief target into the European Research Area, as well as progress of the Competitiveness Strategy and thus also of the of co-operation within EU, and with other countries. National Reform Programme. As with the Competitiveness Strategy, the National Reform Significant science policy related devel- Programme is based on two pillars: opments in the Slovak Republic: the • Completing structural reforms and maintaining National Reform Programme (NRP) and their results, the Competitiveness Strategy • Developing the knowledge economy. As regards the Lisbon process, the Slovak Republic has in a way got ahead of events at The National Reform Programme focuses, above European level. Following extensive consultations all, on the development of the five areas that are In 2004, after extensive and discussions with representatives of almost all best able to promote the development of the cre- consultations and key areas of Slovak society, on February 2005 the ative potential of the Slovak economy. Together they discussions the Slovak Slovak government adopted the Competitiveness form a whole in which each of them is equally government adopted a Strategy of the Slovak Republic until 2010, which is important: Competitiveness Strategy considered to be the national implementation of the • Education of the Slovak Republic Lisbon Strategy. This strategy forms the basis of • Employment until 2010, which Slovakia's efforts to encourage economic develop- • Information society embodies the national ment over the period up to 2010, and its principles • Research, development, and innovation implementation of the are being progressively incorporated into in all the • The business environment Lisbon Strategy. government's other documents and initiatives for the period so that they will be fully compatible with In the Competitiveness Strategy a clear vision of it and aid its achievement. The Competitiveness the target situation to be achieved by 2010 was for- Strategy therefore also informs the National Reform mulated for each of the areas. Simultaneously, it also Over the past fifteen Programme. defined chief basic targets corresponding to that years the Slovak vision and the main policies and steps by which the Basic framework and goals of the targets could be achieved. Considerable emphasis economy has undergone National Reform Programme ensuing was put on the fact that the targets and policies for a fundamental from the Competitiveness strategy individual areas should be harmonised and coordi- transformation resulting Over the past fifteen years the Slovak economy has nated. The visions, targets, and main policies were from the transition from undergone a fundamental transformation. The most reflected in the National Reform Programme. a centrally planned to a important changes were the transition from a cen- market economy, trally planned to a market economy, Slovakia's In short, it could be said that the National Slovakia's becoming a becoming a member of the EU, and the implemen- Reform Programme focuses on the integrated member of the EU, and tation of deep structural reforms. Thanks to these guidelines to enhance the innovative potential of the implementation of changes, the Slovak economy has reached a new the Slovak economy, develop the knowledge deep structural reforms. phase of development bringing with it new oppor- economy, and create employment for Slovak cit- tunities, but also new problems and challenges. izens. This is the key challenge for Slovak Slovakia is currently in a very good position to economic policy over the coming decade. The rapidly achieve higher standards of living converg- integrated guidelines, the target of which is to ing with advanced EU countries through fast but introduce structural reforms, are promoted in the sustainable economic growth. programme indirectly, through the continuation

Box 3. The Slovak Research and Development Support Agency The Research and Development Support Agency, which has its head office in Bratislava, is an organisation funded from the national budget through the Ministry of Education. The purpose of the Agency is to provide support for research and development in the form of project funding. The Agency provides funds for: a) research and development projects in particular science and technology disciplines , b) projects under the Agency's programmes, c) projects under the international scientific-technical cooperation agreements and projects within the international programmes and initiatives in the area of research and development, including the cost of their preparation.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 of the reform policies currently underway with a strategy for Slovakia” programme, a strategy to 19 view to bringing them to successful implementa- strengthen the competitiveness of Slovakia by tion. 2010. In this document the “Science, research and innovation” chapter is one of the 4 strategic In line with the overall Concluding remarks priorities. However, this plan is modest in terms direction set by the Over the last decade society and the economy of of the level of R&D financing up to now; the Competitiveness Strategy Slovakia have gone through a period of rapid devel- increase of the Slovak R&D expenditure by 2010 for the Slovak Republic opment, mainly as a consequence of the complex is assumed to be 1.8% of GDP. A further weak- until 2010, the National changes involved in the transformation from a cen- ness, which is limiting much the exploitation of Reform Programme sets trally planned economy to a market economy and at the recognised Slovak human and knowledge out the guidelines for the same time it has embarked upon a process of inte- potential in many fields of science and technolo- enhancing the innovative gration into the EU. gy is the poor Slovak R&D technical infrastructure. One of the ways how to overcome potential of the Slovak The most critical phenomenon affecting R&D this deficit is a promising recent vital effort of the economy, developing the in Slovakia is the low level of expenditure (both Slovak R&D organisations to use the EU knowledge economy and public and private) on science and innovation. In Structural Funds as a source for infrastructures boosting job creation. 2005 the Slovak government adopted the “Lisbon investments.

Keywords Slovak Republic, Lisbon Strategy, Framework Programme, European Research Area

Notes 1. According to February 2006 data from European Commission, there were 278 Slovak citizens involved in 226 projects approved under FP6, which represents participation rate of around the average among new EU member states. By research areas Slovak participation in FP6 was distributed across all thematic and horizontal programmes, but the higher participation numbers were reached in 3 priority thematic programmes: nanotechnologies (31), sustainable development (27), and IST (26), and in the research and About the author Prof. Dr. Ján Slezák, innovation horizontal programme (38). M.D, Ph.D., D.Sc. has been 2. There is more about Slovakia's competitiveness strategy on the Slovakian Ministry of Finance website the first vice-president of Slovak Academy of at: http://www.finance.gov.sk/EN/Default.aspx?CatID=115 Sciences for last 8 years, where he is responsible for References economic issues, scientific education and legislation. • Statistics of Slovak Republic 2002-2005 (Slovak Statistical Office, Bratislava) Up until June 1998 he was • Natural Reform Prognosis of the Slovak Republic for years 2006-2008 (Ministry of finance of the Slovak Director and Chairman of government, Bratislava) the Institute for Heart Research, SAS, for 10 years. • Science Policy of the SAS for June 2005 - June 2009 He is a Professor in the • Slovak Act No.172/2005 Coll. on state support organisation for research and development Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava. His major Contact research interests are Ján Slezák, Slovak Academy of Sciences Physiology, Cardiology, e-mail: [email protected] Anatomy and Embryology. He is involved in and/or responsible for national cardiovascular research projects, and research into experimental and/or molecular cardiology, and has an extensive publication record.

Simeon Anguelov and Naum Yakimov, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences

Issue: Since the events of 1989 started the radical transition in Central and Eastern Europe, a debate has been underway on the pros and cons of the possible roles in the new landscape of the Science Academies, which are rather specific hybrids of learned societies and national research centres. Experience has shown that after a series of important reforms, they have the potential to become a driving force in the process of integrating the national innovation systems of these countries into the European Research Area.

Relevance: The process of establishing relations and networks with the aid of the Framework programmes and the identification by the European Commission of Centres of Excellence in Bulgaria laid the groundwork for policy preparation and decision-making on the future use of the European Structural Funds to strengthen the research infrastructure, build networks of expertise in South East Europe in vital fields of regional importance, and, last but not least, to transform the scientific research system in Bulgaria.

The Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and The Role of the Centres of Excellence in integration with ERA structuring the European Research Area Bulgaria’s integration with the European art way between a learned society and a Research Area (ERA) is a process which was national multidisciplinary research centre, launched several years ago when the framework the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (see Box programme of the European Commission was 1) is Bulgaria’s key player in international sci- opened up to Bulgaria. This created the necessary Pentific cooperation, and has ties with many partner conditions for reorientation of the most active organisations as well as representing Bulgaria at Bulgarian researchers towards the leading scientific numerous international institutions and organisa- institutions in the European Union as partners in Part way between tions. It is therefore responsible for a large share of advanced research. At the same time this new a learned society the task of preparing Bulgaria for active participa- framework of cooperation made it possible to iden- and a national tion in European Research Area (ERA). In what tify the most vital, competitive, and viable sectors of multidisciplinary follows, we shall look at three aspects of the huge Bulgarian science. It led to the certifying of some research centre, the task to be tackled by the Academy in the years Centres of excellence in Bulgaria, the great majority Bulgarian Academy of ahead: 1) strengthening the national Centres of of them (eight out of eleven) being units of the Sciences is Bulgaria’s Excellence by intelligent use, among other things, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS). key player in of European funds for regional development; 2) active participation in the transformation of the sci- The role of the Centres of excellence (defined international scientific ence research system in Bulgaria; and, 3) largely by “their capacity to produce knowledge cooperation, and is promoting the creation of co-operative networks that can be used for industrial purposes”) in global playing a key role in throughout ERA, but more specifically, in South- R&D activities has been thrown into relief, for preparing the country East Europe. instance, by recent analytical work (Meyer-Kramer, for participation in the European Research Area. The views expressed here are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 2000), which characterises the 1990s as a period of respective fields of activity. In the past some of them 21 continuing internationalisation, accompanied by had extensive relations with local industries. For var- concentration, focusing and strategic emphasis. ious reasons, the majority of them were not engaged International International enterprises that are leading performers in the industrial co-operation which existed before enterprises are of R&D are pursuing the strategy of a presence with 1989, and are still seeking new relationships with no longer satisfied R&D and product development at precisely those modern small-scale and larger enterprises. with locations which locations where the best conditions prevail, world- ‘just about keep up’ with wide, for innovation and the generation of A useful and helpful action by the European com- the global technology knowledge in their product segment or field of tech- mission aimed at identifying and supporting centres race; they deliberately nology. They are no longer satisfied with locations of this kind in what were initially pre-accession which ‘just about keep up’ with the global technol- countries has been underway since 2000. Its goal seek out unique centres ogy race; they deliberately seek out unique centres has been to put the capabilities of these pre-acces- of excellence. of excellence. This process is responsible, at least sion countries at the service of the social and partially, for the increased heterogeneity of the dis- economic needs of their region, in conformity with tribution of the scientific and research activities the interest of the Union as a whole. A Centre of throughout the European regions. excellence was defined as “an existing working unit, either independent or functioning within a locally Centres of this kind are rare not only in Bulgaria established research organisation of one of the coun- but in all the countries of Central and Eastern tries concerned, having its own specific research A valuable action by the European (CEE) region. If they exist on a modest agenda and preferably distinct organisational and European Commission scale, they may also not have a considerable impact administrative boundaries.” identifying and on the local economy, because the production units supporting centres of of the big multinationals with whom they are work- It is reasonable to admit that these Centres are ing are usually located elsewhere. However, in this now the best candidates for support from the excellence in what were vast region there are a good number of research insti- European Fund for regional development. As men- initially pre-accession tutes with excellent track records not only in basic tioned above, eight out of the eleven Bulgarian countries has been research, but also in applications relating to their centres of excellence belong to the Bulgarian underway since 2000.

Box 1. The Bulgarian Academy of Sciences: a brief presentation Bulgaria is due to become a member of the European Union on 1 January 2007. This is a big challenge to all the subsystems of the Bulgarian State and society, including the innovation system and its basic component - scientific research. The main organisation in Bulgaria carrying out both frontier and applied research is the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS). Like many other Academies of Sciences in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, the BAS is the community of academicians, corresponding members and foreign members together with a set of autonomous research units supported by a number of auxiliary units. Having only 16% of the Bulgarian human resources involved in scientific research, this entity (playing both the role of learned society and that of national multidisciplinary research centre, like the C.N.R.S. in France or CNR in Italy) accounts for more than 60 per cent of Bulgarian scientific publications (i.e. authored or co-authored by Bulgarian scientists) held in library collections around the world. Scientific research at the Academy has been oriented towards serving national priorities so as to facilitate closer integration with the European scientific establishment. These national research priorities are energy sources and effective energy utilisation, studies on man and living nature, information, communications and management, national history and culture, new materials and technologies. The Academy is internationally recognised and plays an active role in international scientific cooperation. It maintains relations with many partner organisations and represents Bulgaria at numerous international institutions and organisations. The Bulgarian Academy is currently involved in bilateral partnerships with more than 45 foreign academies, national research institutions and universities, and is an active member of 27 governmental and non- governmental organisations. In all its bilateral agreements high priority is given to joint research projects, of which there were around 500 in 2006. Additionally, research scientists from the Academy’s institutes are involved in about 300 joint institute-to-institute projects, including 117 EU projects and in more than 40 NATO projects. Annually about 2,500 scientists and scholars from the Academy’s research institutes travel abroad to do research in joint projects, to participate in conferences and symposia, or to study abroad. The number of joint publications with foreign partners which have appeared in international scientific journals or been delivered at conferences has totalled about 1,000 a year since the early 2000s.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 22 Academy of Sciences, and they are or could Michael Gibbons (Gibbons, 1994) introduced become nuclei or clusters of advanced economic the idea of the so-called second mode of producing activity comprising frontier research and transfor- knowledge, i.e. a non-academic one. According to mation of the knowledge acquired into products him, experts are obliged to extend their knowledge and goods with high added value. Not only the to widely disparate areas, and to try to integrate selection of Centres of excellence in the pre-acces- what they ‘know’ now with what others want to ‘do’ sion CEE countries, but the very principle of project in the future. This process leads to an increasing selection of the Framework programmes, having an need for reliable scientific expertise on more and In recent decades there essentially "bottom-up" structure, stimulated the dif- more complex issues confronting society. has been a transition ficult process of national S&T priority setting, thus from scientific research demonstrating the crucial role of international The transition to the ‘new mode 2’ or ‘post-aca- structured along the cooperation and assistance by the European Union demic’ regime takes place relatively smoothly in lines of traditional in the sensitive field of policy making based on those cases where the institutions educating profes- disciplines towards strong selection. sional researchers (mainly universities and other trans-disciplinary higher-education establishments) keep their units and interdisciplinary Challenges for setting national priorities working in basic science disciplines at the highest organisation of Research in Research and Development possible level. Only by having strong foundations in and Development. The last twenty or thirty years have witnessed a academic science can a country keep pace with the transition, at least in the scientifically more transition to the post-academic modes of knowl- advanced countries, from scientific research struc- edge production. On this view, “The research tured along the lines of traditional disciplines to a apparatus of every “lonely seeker after truth” is inte- more trans-disciplinary and interdisciplinary organ- grated in fact, into an elaborate social apparatus, isation of Research and Development. Some which contrives to be so transparent that it remains scholars describe this process as a transition from invisible at first sight to the user. And this is exactly academic to post-academic science. the problem of those who try to make ‘good science’ in countries with less developed or destroyed Academic science- as the creation of objective infrastructures” (Gibbons, 1999). fundamental knowledge about the world- is a col- lective game, but driven by very individualistic Good scientists in the countries with fragile R&D players following the so-called CUDOS rules systems, such as the South-East European countries, (i.e. Communality, Universality, Disinterestedness, are highly vulnerable. They are under a double Originality and Scepticism) (Merton, 1973). Like moral pressure. On the one hand, they need to keep knights in the middle ages, academic scientists are pace with developments in their own narrow acad- “lonely seekers after the truth” (Ziman, 2000) try- emic fields, make valuable contributions to their Scientists are under ing to convince sceptical peers that their findings evolution and receive the recognition of their peers, pressure both to keep are original and worthwhile. However, in their and on the other hand, they have to respond to soci- pace with developments quest for new and original results, individual aca- ety’s demands for solutions to ever more complex in their own narrow demics establish collaborations with colleagues practical problems. academic fields and to sharing the same fundamental curiosity. However, nowadays teamwork, networking and other modes A very common response to such a schizo- respond to society’s of cooperation between researchers in different phrenic situation is to hide one’s head in the sand demands for solutions fields are not mere tributes to some new political and try to ignore reality and carry on as if the ‘good to ever more complex fashion. They are the social consequences of the old days’ of Ivory Towers still existed. This also hap- practical problems. accumulation of knowledge and techniques. pens in certain other countries where the main Science has progressed to a level where the ques- publication activities continue to be in the tradition- tions it raises cannot be answered by individuals ally strong disciplines like mathematics, physics and working independently and within the confines of chemistry, with smaller contributions to the life sci- their disciplines. What is more, these problems are ences and trans-disciplinary environmental studies. often beyond the capabilities even of national However, the complex character of the Bulgarian R&D systems working alone. Academy of Sciences as a multidisciplinary

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 research centre permitted the development of the Promoting cohesion, that is, upgrading the scientif- 23 new branch of the cognitive sciences by tapping ic capacities of the less privileged areas within the into natural and social sciences and the humanities Union, but also in would-be member-states, is one before any university in the country. This potential of the pillars of European policy. Failure to set priorities to change the mode of reorienting and reorganising may result in the research should be used much more intensively in The strengthening of the national innovation sys- chronic under-funding the years to come. tems requires, among other things, closer and more of all disciplines, extensive co-operation within and among the collapse of the Generally speaking, it is not easy for either the European regions, in general, and with and within knowledge-producing scientific community or governments to solve the South-East Europe in particular, as a guarantee of system, and the gradual crucial problem of a small and fragile country securing relevant regional expertise, and creating a disengagement of (i.e. to decide which basic disciplines should be breeding ground for new talents and ideas. “Why government and society. privileged out of the whole multitude, and to what should scientists not look for partners, wherever extent) if and only if performance criteria within a they are, irrespective of their geographical loca- model of science organised along the lines of acad- tion?” This is a question that often arises when one emic disciplines are applied1. In the face of such a is considering regional scientific cooperation, e.g. dilemma, the result could be a chronic under-fund- among the countries of Central, Eastern or South- ing of all disciplines, collapse of the East Europe (Anguelov, 2002), and it is quite a knowledge-producing system, and the gradual dis- reasonable question, within the traditional frame- engagement of government and society. The work of how academic science is conducted. If we solution, not always easy to follow solely on a agree without problems that there is a need for inter- Reducing disparities national level, is to make choices and ‘concentrate national co-operation- mostly with the developed between the scientific on a limited number of fields with proven strength countries of the EU- in order to rebuild the national capabilities of different in science with at least some potential for applica- scientific infrastructures that support academic sci- countries and can help tion in industry, and sufficient future potential ence in Central and Southeast Europe, can we argue safeguard the stability (Ziman, 2000); in other words, a continuous and objectively for the usefulness of a regional dimen- of the system as a systematic evaluation and revaluation of the Centres sion, or should we support the idea simply because whole. of excellence or competence of the country. The it might be ‘politically-correct’? aim of the BAS is to be mostly a set of dynamically interacting Centres of excellence in specific scientif- The world today is an arena in which economic domains that are important for the country’s ic, social and environmental issues are complex and economy. intertwined. No national government or international organisation could tackle them without The Role of International Cooperation appropriate scientific expertise. But the participation in Restructuring the National Innovation of scientists in the creation of such expertise Systems involves skills that are quite different from those Having highlighted the role Centres of excel- they need to carry out good academic science lence can play in the transformation of national (Roqueplo, 1997). The CUDOS model alluded to Scientific cooperation innovation systems, it is worth considering their role above drives academics to become experts in nar- among regional in regional and international cooperation. row fields, because specialisation is the only academic institutions, strategy leading to original breakthroughs. For that working on collaborative An even geographical distribution of research reason alone, individual scientists are rarely able to projects in fields of activities and achievements across the European act as effective advisors on how to deal with com- regional interest, can and Research Area is neither realistic nor necessarily plex, more wide-ranging questions that require should contribute to fruitful. There will always be a tendency for imbal- urgent solutions. At the same time, they are the only ances and widening gaps in the highly competitive ‘actors’ in society capable of tapping into the pool of acquiring the problem- game of science2. However, reasonable limits objective knowledge looking for that part of it solving experience that is should be placed on the disparities, as there may be which is needed to build up expertise on a given needed to provide a point beyond which they might become danger- problem3. They do this within panels of scientists, regionally relevant ous for the stability of the system as a whole. gathered from various specialised fields, which may expertise.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 24 come up with sound proposals as a result of thor- to acquiring the problem-solving experience that is ough discussions and sometimes commissioning needed to provide regionally relevant expertise. additional research. Thus, their work as experts rep- Some elaborations on the same theme are proposed resents yet another social role, similar to their role in in other papers of the series. These consider, among adapting the results of basic science for military or other things, the development of a regional economic goals. In these cases, the scientists are Technological institute as a network of the most working as problem-solvers, pooling a large variety prominent university and research institutions of competences in order to achieve concrete results. throughout the region (Slaus, 2006).

If the role of applied science in developing the Of course, sub-regional collaboration should be economy in regions like South Eastern Europe has run in parallel with, and through, the traditionally not yet been translated into clear and concrete poli- strong and fruitful collaboration schemes with big cies, the building of expertise on a regional scale is scientific countries of the EU and the world at large. obviously essential, e.g. in health care, environmen- Both strengthening the national innovation system tal problems, weather forecasting and the prevention in Bulgaria and its networking with the neighbours About the authors of local natural catastrophes, clean and sustainable and the partners throughout Europe should catalyse Simeon Anguelov, energy production, efficient transportation systems, the general transformation of the scientific research PhD and Associate Professor, is currently Secretary for etc. Scientific cooperation among regional academ- imposed by globalisation, exponential accumula- international co-operation in ic institutions, working on collaborative projects in tion of knowledge, and complication of the the Office of the President of fields of regional interest, can and should contribute relations between science and society. Bulgarian Academy of Sciences. He has been a senior research fellow since Keywords 1980, and has been an Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, European Research Area, science and society, Central and Eastern Europe associate professor in Solid State Chemistry in the Notes Chemistry High School in Strasbourg (1990-91), 1. Michael Gibbons has formulated the so-called Gibbons rule, that ‘there is no known performance Ambassador of Bulgaria to indicator which the Physics community cannot turn to its advantage before the next funding cycle!” France and UNESCO (1991- 2. The eminent sociologist of science, Robert K. Merton called this the Matthew effect in his seminal paper 1998), and a consultant to the UNESCO Venice Office from 1968. The Gospel according to St. Matthew said: ‘For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he for Science- UNESCO UVO shall have abundance, but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath’ (1999-2004). He is the 3. As economists often put it: the objective knowledge is a public good, but not a free one; only highly- author/co-author of more than 80 research articles. trained scientists could make a proper use of it Naum Yakimoff, PhD, DSc, Professor, is References currently Scientific Secretary General of the Bulgarian • F. Mayer-Kramer, "Internationalisation of Industrial R & D: Implications for STI efforts and Policies in Academy of Sciences. He is Europe”. Papers of EUROPOLIS Symposium, Maastricht, 2000 a professor in the physiology • Merton , R., The Sociology of Science, University of Chicago Press, Chicago 1973 of vision, and is the • Ziman, J., Real Science: what it is, and what it means, Cambridge University Press 2000 author/co-author of more than 100 research articles in • Gibbons, M., NATURE, vol.402, p.C82, 1999 and M. Gibbons et al., The new Production of the fields of psycho- Knowledge, Sage Publications, London 1994 physiology and • Gibbons, M., NATURE, vol.402, p.C82, 1999 and M.Gibbons et al., The new Production of Knowledge, psychophysics of vision and visual perception, Sage Publications, London 1994 neurosciences and science • Tichy, G., in “Science and Society: charting the future“, Proceedings of a Conference, organised by the policies. He lectures on Estonian Academy of Sciences (3-4 December 1998, Tallinn) cognitive sciences in New Bulgarian University in Sofia, • Anguelov, S., Euroscience News, Number twenty 2002, p. 10 and has also been a guest • Roqueplo, P., Entre savoir et décision, l’expertise scientifique, Editions INRA, Paris 1997 lecturer at the University of • Ivo Slaus article in this special IPTS report, 2006 Nijmegen, University of Dusseldorf, Catholic University of Louvain and Contact University of Leipzig. Simeon Anguelov, Naum Yakimoff, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences

Ivo Šlaus, Croatian Academy of Sciences and Arts

Issue: Discussions on the establishment of a European Institute of Technology (EIT) are looking at the different forms an EIT could take. Particularly promising is the vision of the EIT as a network of leading scientific personalities, groups and centres in Europe involving business, industry, agriculture, the environment and policy- and decision-making from the outset.

Relevance: Building the EIT in the form of a network will allow it to foster mobility and cohesion in Europe and so contribute to the emergence and consolidation of the knowledge society. A networked EIT could build on existing local and regional institutions, it could be developed within 2-3 years with a relatively modest investment, forming a basis which would be relatively easy to modify and improve.

Introduction detailed understanding of this issue, and in particu- The knowledge society is lar of the impact of different GNER&D structures, is a society in which he European Union has declared that its needed to guide public and private research expen- knowledge permeates goal is to become the most competitive ditures efficiently. and dominates all and dynamic knowledge-based economy activities and spheres of by 2010 and by 2025 a sustainable knowl- The knowledge society is a society in which life. This implies Tedge society. Why should Europe strive to become knowledge permeates and dominates all activities constant change and the and spheres of life. Knowledge includes existing a knowledge society and how can this goal be need for people, ideas achieved? science, humanities and technology, ongoing and and capacity building. planned research and development, innovations, In a rapidly changing, globalised world when ideas, and also language, literature and art, as many of the world’s natural resources are being well as education. The totality of all of these is exhausted and we are faced with various kinds of understood and contextualised only within a spe- dangers and threats, only knowledge is inex- cific cultural system, implying constant change haustible. Knowledge is essential if we are to and the development of each culture, since confront the threats and dangers our societies face. knowledge constantly changes. Conducting We are therefore witnessing a power shift, where research and preserving existing knowledge is the the dominance of wealth and military strength is role of institutions. Unlike other resources knowl- giving way to the dominance of knowledge (Toffler, edge resides in people. Therefore, people are the 1990). There is much literature on the positive essential resource in the knowledge society impact of GNER&D (gross national expenditure for (Šlaus, 2005). Building the knowledge society research and development) on economic growth requires people, ideas and capacity building, it (measured in terms of GDP growth), and research is requires education and research (this may be ongoing into the strength of this link. A more curiosity driven frontier research, mission oriented

The views expressed here are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 26 research in all scientific disciplines, interdiscipli- which means the EU-15 accounts for 37.3 per cent nary research or problem focused research). of the total EU-US figure and the US for 62.7 per cent (Šlaus, 2005 and King, 2004). Similar results How close is Europe to achieving this goal? are obtained if one analyses the number of Nobel The following indicators represent a useful assess- prizes. For instance, over the period 1938-84 the ment of how close we are to the goal of building countries of the EU-15 accounted for 33.3% of the knowledge society: (1) education, particularly Nobel laureates in physics, a percentage which fell higher education, its spread and quality; (2) inten- to 7.4% in the period 1985-98. This should be sity and quality of R&D, and most importantly; (3) compared with the 76% from the USA and even the strength of the interconnections between the 18.5% from other countries. Similarly, for Nobel three poles: research - education – innovation, and laureates in economics the percentage of the intertwining of knowledge, economy and gov- Europeans is steadily decreasing (Psacharopoulos, ernance (this is often referred to as a triple helix). 1999). The Humboldt University in Berlin had eight Nobel laureates during the period 1900-1909, six Europe was the birthplace of the university. Yet in 1910-1919, ten in 1920-1939, five in 1940- today European universities do not dominate the 1956, and none afterwards (Economsist, 2005). Europe lags behind the list of the world’s leading 200 or 500 universities. 1 US on a variety of On the contrary , only 21% of the EU’s working The “triple helix” of the intertwining of knowl- population has attained higher education com- edge-economy-governance is weak in all countries human capital indicators. pared to 38% in the USA, 36% in Japan, and 43% worldwide. The fact that the fraction of industrial Other regions are also in Canada. With an average gross enrolment ratio expenditure in research and development (R&D) is surging ahead in terms of of 52%, Europe lags behind Canada (59%) and fur- much larger in some countries does not necessari- the numbers of graduates ther still behind the USA (81%) and South Korea ly mean that the intertwining is stronger or they are producing. (82%) (Šlaus, 2005)2. China is witnessing the adequate. For instance, in 2005 the fraction of biggest explosion of the number of students in his- industrial expenditure on R&D in Sweden dropped tory. In 1980 only 2-3% of school-leavers went to significantly when some large enterprises decided university, in 2003 this had risen to 17%. The num- to outsource their research. ber of doctoral students in China leaped from 14,500 in 1998 to 48,700 in 2003. The knowledge society cannot be a set of islands in the sea of mediocrity - everybody has to GNER&D in the EU is 1.99% of the EU’s GDP, be permanently educated. Quality of education has placing it below that of the USA (2.76%) and Japan to be maintained at a very high level and has to be (3.12%), mainly thanks to much higher investment constantly improved. The system of education has in R&D from industry. However, GNER&D intensi- to be interlinked with employment. Employment ty alone is an inadequate indicator. It has been should guarantee income, insurance, health pro- pointed out that output indicators are a better mea- tection, and also provide permanent education. sure for assessing the allocation in R&D and the quality and potential of R&D (Šlaus and Šlaus, The knowledge society and 1980). Thus, we could cite the fact that the number demographic change of all published scientific papers Europe is compa- On current demographic trends, Europe’s share rable to the USA, for instance during the period of the global workforce will decrease in both 1997-2001 authors in the EU-15 published 1.35 absolute and percentage terms. What is more, million scientific publications compared with 1.27 there is already a gross mismatch between the million published by authors in the USA. required skills and the willingness and possibilities Nevertheless, the citations analysis again favours of job-seekers, and the mismatch will keep increas- US scientists: 10.85 million citations compared ing. Migration encompasses all social strata. In 8.63 million citations, respectively, during the same 1985, 105 million graduates lived outside the period. The top 1% of the cited scientific papers country of their birth, while in 2000 that number shows a gross imbalance. The E-15 contributes increased to 175 million. Currently the USA has a 14,099 as compared with 22,723 from US authors, shortfall of 126,000 nurses and it is estimated that

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 27 Box 1: While in 1995 the European workforce represented 14% of the world’s working-age population, in less than 20 years from now it will fall to barely 9%. Various estimates suggest that the countries of the EU-15 would have to accept between 68 and 150 million new immigrants to make up for their demographic losses. If we take the figure of 100 million, then it implies that immigrants would account for at least one fifth of the workforce. The US and China will be almost self-sufficient lacking only 17 and 10 million, respectively. However, India will have a surplus of 47 million9). Obviously massive migrations of people and jobs are likely.

On current demographic by the year 2030 it will have a shortage of 200,000 education have to be intertwined. Sixth, education trends, Europe’s share doctors and 800,000 nurses. The lack of informa- has to enable each one of us to become more tion-communication technology (ICT) specialists in acquainted with a multitude of different cultures, to of the global workforce Germany is well-known. In Austria 42% of enter- appreciate the importance of cooperation, creativi- will decrease in both prises face a skill shortage. These data show the ty, freedom and democracy. absolute and percentage failures of today’s educational system, but also terms. What is more, demonstrate the ingenuity and the capability of the Any activity involves some routine and even there is a widening free market, citizens and governments in providing drudgery. Job satisfaction is provided not just by gap between some solutions, although these are not necessarily rewards but also by the creative components in the skills needed and sufficient. The share of the population over the age work itself. A person’s first job is often their first those on offer. of 65 in Europe is increasing. It is expected that source of income and it provides some degree of over 110 million people will be over the age of 65 economic freedom, which is essential to be able to in 2030, an increase of 40 million. start a family as it provides the economic basis on which to have children. There are numerous non- In the contemporary world people will change financial rewards associated with education, and their profession many times throughout their lives, these are extensively discussed (Haveman and and as a result of automation, fewer people are Wolfe, 1984; and Belfield, 2003) in the literature needed in agriculture and manufacturing. The jobs starting with the Haveman and Wolfe paper and that only humans can now do are: creativity, fail- culminating recently in The Economist’s Converging ures and recoveries. New ideas are at the root of Europe Review on talents and higher education new jobs and of the job-led growth. A specific (Economist, 2006a, 2006b). Each of these topics problem is youth unemployment, which stands at deserves extensive discussion, but we keep this con- 11% in the USA, 28% in France and 37% in tribution focused on European Institute of Croatia (Jacobs, 2005). Technology emphasising only that preserving and developing global talent market requires distributed The current demographic picture and the chang- networks of research/ education centres. ing features of work, employment and education require important changes to our current system of European Institute of Technology education. There are six main characteristics our The European Research Area and European system of education should have. First, it is neces- Higher Education Area could be significantly sary that the European system of education enables strengthened by a European Institute of creative employment at each level. Second, it is Technology (EIT). Institutions of higher education desirable that young people take up their first job no intertwining knowledge with industry and more later than at the age of 23. Third, it is necessary that generally with business and the economy, are a the education is life-long and that a significant part convenient engine for building the knowledge of society is permanently educated, i.e. including society. Though such institutions will educate a primary, secondary and tertiary education and life- very small number of persons, they can serve as a long education. Fourth, it is desirable that several seed and will be an excellent role-model inspiring periods of postgraduate studies punctuate the per- and stimulating self-teaching. The top research manent education system. Fifth, it is artificial to universities in the world are models of such insti- separate education from employment in a person’s tutions. They have been developed in Europe (e.g. life - they overlap and therefore, employment and ETH in Switzerland), and in the USA more than a

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 28 century ago. Outstanding examples are MIT and oriented research, but also the place where Caltech. Can these institutions be a role-model for numerous new high technologies have been Europe today? developed, notably the world wide web, could be involved in this network, and similarly the Copying a model which is a century old is hard- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) ly a good prescription. In addition: where should a in Heidelberg. European Institute of Technology be located - in one country or in many European countries? Since The network is formed as a combination of The European Research - as has been shown by numerous historians - all approaches satisfying the following criteria: Area and European cultures have contributed to science, it is desirable • high quality of individual researchers and of a Higher Education Area that such outstanding institutions of higher educa- specific small groups of researchers already could be significantly tion be in several European countries. This gives involved in research, technological develop- strengthened by a rise to two problems. First, can very high quality be ment and education; European Institute of guaranteed, and second, do we have enough • intertwining research-economy-governance; Technology (EIT). resources (not just financial resources)? • the network should have at least five nodes, In Japan, the National Institute for Advanced each in a different European country; and Industrial Science and Technology was recently cre- • it is desirable that topics of research, techno- ated, based on outstanding research/higher logical development and education are not education centres throughout the country. We pro- restricted to scientific disciplines, but problem pose a similar model. solving oriented, and thereby complementary to the existing structure of most of the univer- A Network sities. Our proposal would be to establish a network of leading scientific personalities, groups and cen- The network would be subject to constant tres in Europe, which will from the start involve pruning; no node would be considered to be per- business, industry, agriculture and aquaculture, manent: new nodes could be added, and even the environment and policy- and decision-mak- some of the “founding centres” could cease to be ing. This would be the ideal way to decrease and nodes of the network. Besides standard indepen- finally eliminate brain-drain and “brain-waste”. dent quality assurance, quality is also assessed by An attempt was already made in early 2000 the success of education: e.g. the number and proposing the South-East European Institute of quality of applicants, and the employment that A network has Technology (SEEIT), designed to be a network of graduates are capable of getting. the advantage that the centres and individuals aimed at: (1) values – freedom, nanosciences and nanotechnologies including A network also has the advantage that the val- tolerance and e-science; (2) marine research; (3) sustainable ues – freedom, tolerance and compassion are development; and, (4) life sciences. There is no accrued more readily if the system of education compassion are accrued reason why such a network should be geographi- assures and guarantees mobility of those who more readily if the cally defined, and limited to those four areas. educate and those who are educated. An EIT system of education During the last few years several important devel- located in a single country would not allow the assures and guarantees opments have taken place. For instance, the mobility and exposure to different cultures that a mobility of those who Mediterranean institute for life sciences in Split - network does. educate and those who MedILS, Croatia and International Postgraduate are educated. School Jožef Stefan in Ljubljana, Slovenia have Education transfers and develops knowl- been established and come into operation. It is edge and values, and the university system that desirable to consider both of them in the proposed existed in Europe throughout 13th - 16th cen- network. In addition, it would be better to extend turies, where for instance, at the University of the original SEEIT proposal to include people and Paris most of the students and professors were centres outside of South East Europe, specifically foreigners, and where students would start in Central Europe. It would be excellent if CERN, their education in Prague, continue in an eminent centre for curiosity driven and mission Bologna, then go to Oxford, and finally would

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 29 Box 2: SEED includes all fellows of WAAS who are interested in contributing to implementing projects addressing economic growth and employment, health, genetics and the environment, development, intertwining knowledge-economy-governance, security and building the culture of peace and knowledge. SEED also includes two categories of non-fellow: associates, and junior associates (not older than 35). SEED includes eminent scientists and also leaders in policy and decision making and in business. Many activities of SEED are connected with the Balkan Political Club, an association of political and intellectual leaders from South East European countries. complete it in Heidelberg - is the best model Union and the role of academia, industry and for providing as much wisdom as possible governments in Central and South Eastern through the education limited to a given num- Europe in contributing to these objectives. ber of years. The network EIT we are proposing includes this approach from the start. Namely, A network with nodes in several countries - all staff of the EIT would have to spend at least ranging from those that are already highly devel- 40% of their time in other nodes of the net- oped to those currently in the process of adapting work, and the node is often a combination of to recent or forthcoming EU membership and with researchers/staff from different countries, and a much lower GDP/capita - would have a socio- all students have to attend lectures and do economic impact that is less localised than an EIT research in at least three different nodes. As the in a single country and will have different spill-over network develops successfully, it is envisioned effects in various countries where its nodes are that mobility and cohesion will increase. located. Nowadays English is the working language at almost all international science conferences, it The main drawbacks of networking A network with nodes is therefore logical to make English the work- are coordination and interconnection. in several countries ing language throughout the EIT nodes. Coordination should not be an insurmountable at varying levels of However, since individual nodes will be locat- problem with modern ICTs. In addition, net- development would have ed in countries where English is not the mother works of leading personalities to be involved in a socio-economic impact tongue, staff and students of the EIT network this network EIT already exist and are them- that is more broadly will enjoy the benefits of exposure to several selves quite efficient and interconnected. One spread and different other European languages and cultures. is Central and Eastern European Network spill-over effects (CEEN) and another is South East European The project intertwines the capacity building Division (SEED) of the World Academy of Art in each country. for research and education, emphasising "on-the- and Science (WAAS). job" training in: • the technologies and structures with near and Conclusion long-term commercial potential ; This task - establishing the European Institute • the state of art in the fields which will lead to of Technology as a network of centres – is a fea- the potential development in advanced tech- sible task that can be achieved fairly quickly, i.e. nologies; within 2-3 years. It can be easily extended to • the economic, environmental and social incorporate other centres of excellence, and sim- issues related to current and future develop- ilarly, if any of the centres do not perform ment; adequately, it can be substituted with a better • the analysis of drivers and barriers to the one. This structure has mobility built in to it from implementation of sustainable development; the outset since both students and professors • the technology-policy interface and the role move from one centre to another. Each of the of policy (past, present and future), particu- centres is of high quality with constant evalua- larly in Central and Eastern European tion to ensure this remains so. In addition, a countries; networked EIT could be set up quickly with rela- • the analyses of technologies and policies with tively modest financial support. The quality and regard to the key objectives of the European the rate of growth of the EIT network would then

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 30 gradually require larger financial support, but A network EIT will contribute toward achieving also attract funding from many other sources. social cohesion in Europe and particularly in The establishment of an EIT network does not Central and Eastern European countries if its nodes preclude the possibility of establishing any other are in these countries. It will invigorate research in EIT either as individual institute (an interesting all institutions and it will integrate currently frag- proposal was recently made by F. Gannon mented research potentials in some of these (Gannon, 2006) or as another network. countries.

Keywords Knowledge society, European Institute of Technology, Network

Notes 1. Academic ranking of world universities: http://ed.sjtu.edu.cn/ranking.htm 2. Key Figures, www.cordis.lu/indicators/publications.htm; ISI web of science (on line) Thomson Scientific, http://scientific.thomson.com/product/wos

References • Toffler, A., Power Shift: Knowledge, Wealth and Violence at the edge of the 21st century, Bantam Dell Publ, New York, 1990 • Key Figures, www.cordis.lu/indicators/publications.htm; ISI web of science (on line) Thomson Scientific, http://scientific.thomson.com/product/wos • Šlaus, I., Building knowledge society – why and how, talk as guest speaker at General Assembly, World Academy of Art and Science, Zagreb, Croatia, Nov 17-20, 2005 www.cba.com.hr/waas • Šlaus, I., and Šlaus, A. Quantitative and Qualitative Indicators, Models of the R&D Systems and Science Technology Policy, Scientia Yugoslavica 6, 1980, pp. 145-154. • King, D.A. The scientific impact of nations, Nature, 430, July 15, 2004, p 311 • Psacharopoulos, G., The IPTS REPORT: Scientific Training in Europe Year 2000: problems and solutions, Issue 37, September 1999,(http://www.jrc.es/home/report/english/articles/vol37/EHC1E376.htm) • The Economist, Survey: Higher Education, September 8, 2005 • Jacobs, G., Employment in a global knowledge society, talk as guest speaker at, General Assembly, About the author World Academy of Art and Science, Zagreb, Croatia, Nov 17-20, 2005 www.cba.com.hr/waas Ivo Šlaus is a Fellow of the Croatian Academy • Haveman R.H., and Wolf, B. L., Schooling and Economic Well-Being: The Role of Non-Market Effects, of Sciences and Arts Journal of Human Resources 19, 1984, p378. (since 1977, foreign • Belfield, C. R., Estimating the Role of Return to Education Investment, 2003, secretary 1992- 1997). www.ncspe.org/pulications.files/bbbs.pdf and references therein He is a Founding Fellow of Academia Europaea (1988), • The Economist, Global Special Report: Talent, Converging Europe Review: Talents and Higher a Member of Academia Education, 2006 Scientiarum et Artium • The Economist, International Higher Education, 2006 Europaea (1991); a Fellow of the World Academy of • Gannon, F. invited talk, European Science: A Modern Interpretation of Basic and Applied Research, Art and Science (1994), and Vienna, January 2006 chairman of its South East European Division (2005). Acknowledgements He has also been a Professor of Physics The author is grateful to A. Zidanšek, H. Schopper, J. Lažnjak, R. Blinc, J. PopJordanov, K. Pisk, S. R.Boškovic Institute Anguelov, B. Kamenar, A. Vlavianos-Arvanitis and O. Giarini for their comments and suggestions. (1967-98), UCLA, Los Angeles, USA (1964 - 2003), Contact Duke University, Ivo Šlaus, R. Boskovic Institute, Croatia Durham, USA (1980) and a e-mail: [email protected] Member of the Croatian Parliament (2000-2003).

Technology and Competitiveness in South-East Europe: the View from SASA

Časlav Ocić, Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts

Issue: The interactive model of the innovation process, which stresses the central role of numerous interactions between science, technology and innovation in every phase, combines two different types of interactions. One type refers to processes that take place in a company or group of companies cooperating closely in a network structure. Another type of interaction refers to the relations of individual companies and the scientific and technological system within which their innovative activities take place.

Relevance: For the countries of South-East Europe (SEE), one of the essential elements of the change in the competitive profile of their economic agents is the establishment of an interactive relationship between the national innovation system and the acquisition, maintenance and development of competitive advantage. A necessary prerequisite of this is the full compatibility of statistical data on scientific and research resources, allocations and results, and on economic indicators such as those based on the national accounts.

Background Framework The question today for The key change that is taking place in the glob- the countries of South- ince the fall of the Ottoman Empire all the al economy comprises a shift in the foundations of East Europe is what nations of South-East Europe (SEE) have turned competitive advantage underpinning both individ- comparative advantages towards a European, or more precisely, ual companies and economies as a whole. their economies have in Western, cultural model based on scientific the knowledge economy Sand technological progress. The question today is This is especially important for the countries and what impact what comparative advantages the SEE economies of South-East Europe where individual actors, knowledge intensive have in the new model of capitalism based on economic sectors and economies as a whole industries will have on knowledge and information, and what (if any) the have traditionally been considerably less com- economic entities impact of knowledge intensive industries will be on petitive than in more developed countries. the SEE countries in terms of the international com- Raising, sustaining and improving the competi- competing in world petitiveness of their economies. These questions tiveness of economic agents on all levels is the markets. raise issues concerning science policy, and the long key component of successful economic develop- term strategies adopted for the development, ment, which is a prerequisite for raising living modernisation, and integration of the SEE economies standards in the region, as well as a basic pillar of and societies at European and global level. (These South-East European countries' ambitions for are issues in which the Serbian Academy of Science integration with the EU and the wider global and Arts (SASA) can play important role, see Box 1.) economy.

The views expressed here are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 32 Box 1. The Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts The Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts (SASA) is a 160-year-old institution, which today has approximately 150 members. It comprises eight divisions, four in the field of sciences and medicine and four in the humanities and arts. Besides its role in developing national and general culture, SASA runs a scientific programme, led by academy members and involving about a thousand non-academy scientists. Detailed reports on the results of about 160 scientific projects in this programme are published yearly in SASA’s Bulletin of scientific research, which is available on request from SASA, and can be downloaded from its web site (www.sanu.ac.yu). The main goals of Serbian science, and the efforts of Serbia’s Academy, focus on developments associated with the so-called transition programme. Bearing in mind the recent history of the country, which left its science, economy and civil society badly damaged and confused, it clearly faces serious challenges. For this reason the first goal of the Academy after the democratic reforms in the country (in the early 2000s), was to re-establish broken or frozen contacts with academies of science outside the country. Over the next few years this goal was practically achieved. Today SASA has normal relations with practically all European academies and has over 50 bilateral projects underway in the fields of science and culture. At the same time SASA has become a member of all the relevant associations of academies at the European and regional level. Given the socio-economic and cultural diversity of Europe and in view of the gradualist approach of EU enlargement, it seemed reasonable to consider creating an umbrella organisation to bring together the body of academies of the region of South-East Europe (SEE), whose countries share many common problems in the process of converging with Europe. For this reason the representatives of the national Academies of Sciences and Arts of Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo-Metohia Province, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Montenegro, Romania, Serbia and Turkey met on November 19, 2001 in Venice, at the invitation of the Giorgio Cini Foundation and Group of Policy Advisors to the President of the European Commission, to create the Inter-Academy Council for South- East Europe (IAC for the SEE) and adopt the so-called Venice Declaration. A series of subsequent meetings defined the programme and organisation structure of the IAC (see www.iacsee.cg.ac.yu). Besides its activities in organising projects in the fields of general science and culture, SASA is particularly interested in developing joint projects of specific interest for countries in the South-East Europe region, such as developing elements of modern society, preserving the rich cultural heritage and biodiversity of the region, fighting endemic diseases etc.

Prof. Stevan Koićki, Vice President of the Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts e-mail: [email protected]

The use of IT and the The technology revolution and the information basis of value creation. Value creation today fun- Internet for business, technology paradigm (Dosi, 1984; 1988; 2000), damentally rests on the development and use of education and along with the complexity of activities in science, intangible asset(s), in which knowledge, compe- entertainment in the SEE knowledge and information as the central core, tence and intellectual property rights are central. countries is low. have changed the foundations of business activi- However, other components of intangibles, such as ties on a global scale and led to the new economic reputation, trademark and brand, relations with and social context commonly referred to as the consumers, are also extremely important. knowledge-based society, information society, dig- ital economy, network economy, or simply the In the countries of South-East Europe the “E-conomy”. emphasis is still mostly on classic, tangible assets and the sources of competitive advantage associat- The level of information technology (IT) take-up ed with them. The conventional sources of and Internet usage in the countries of South-Eastern competitive advantage (i.e. advantages in terms of Europe is low compared to advanced economies, labour, capital, land) are still dominant, and remain both in terms of the level of development of IT the focus of the academic community and the infrastructure itself and the use of IT in business, implementers of economic policy. education and entertainment. The flow of information, market expansion and The reduced cost of sending information multiplication of alliances for the purpose of around the world, the increase of the number and exploiting the potentials complementaries have accessibility of markets, liberalisation of interna- displaced traditional sources of competitive advan- tional business and deregulation of financial flows tages in the processes of economic development. have pushed traditional sources of competitive dif- In the countries of South-East Europe, one ferentiation into the background and shifted the means of enabling the level of scientific and tech-

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 nological development to be raised relatively about the loss of former competitive advantage, 33 quickly might be to intensify intra-company trans- developing and improving new sources of com- fers of knowledge and technology between the petitive advantage is a precondition for an branches located in developed countries and those economy as a whole to survive and advance its in South-East Europe. This is also an efficient way competitive position in the global system of pro- for companies in South-East Europe to obtain sci- duction. High levels of R&D spending are a entific information and solutions that are often prerequisite for an effective innovation process, unavailable on the free market for scientific knowl- although spending alone does not guarantee suc- Attracting transnational edge and information. In the transformation of the cess, especially if there is no adequate interaction companies into the economy and innovation system, special signifi- with all the other essential elements of the region is potentially an cance is placed on economic, cultural and innovation chain. Imperfect competition is a scientific cooperation among players from the characteristic of an economy dominated by effective tool for countries of South-Eastern Europe with economic knowledge, and initial advantages acquired by achieving transfers of subjects in their immediate and external environ- timely application and exploitation of knowledge knowledge and ment, including cooperation with the currently can become permanent and irreversible. The technology. dominant subjects of innovative and technological knowledge economy disrupts the traditional eco- activities on the global level, namely transnational nomic relationships between consumption, companies. While in the past the main forms of production and investments. technology cooperation and transfer between the countries of South-East Europe and developed It is especially important for the countries of countries consisted of imports of equipment, pur- South-East Europe to identify branches of the econ- chases of licenses and investments in joint omy and segments in which they can be ventures, more recently foreign direct investments, competitive not just on the local, national, and strategic alliances and networks, and subcontract- macroeconomic levels, but also globally. ing have all become more common. This is Competitiveness on the international level requires something which deserves proper study. companies in South-East Europe to turn their local positions and advantages into global ones, to go Technology is a resource of the utmost impor- from being national players to international ones, tance for many organisations. Organisations to standardise and reinforce domestic advantages manage their technology resources in such a way by global strategies which will fully take into Developing new as to maximise the competitive advantage they account and employ primarily relevant local sources of competitive obtain from them. This requires the integration of resources. This would necessitate changes at all advantage has technology into the company’s strategy. Another levels, including: become a precondition key task of modern managers is the development • Changes in the institutional framework and for economic and exploitation of companies’ innovative capac- instruments, competitiveness, and ities. Science, technology and innovation • Changes in state economic policy, (Lundvall, 2003) play a key role in increasing pro- • Strengthening of intermediary institutions, R&D has a role to ductivity, developing new products and services • Changes in the educational system, play in this process. and creating and building competitive advantage. • Changes in the national innovation system, There is no economy that can be competitive in • Changes to the business entities themselves: all the branches and segments of the economy. their concept of functioning and development, International exchange enables every country to employment policy, corporate culture. provide all the products and services it needs but does not produce itself, and to raise the level of Technology and innovation management domestic competitive branches and the product- in the countries of South-Eastern Europe also ivity growth rate by specialisation in the branches encompasses investigation of a series of specific of industry and their segments in which competi- areas: R&D management; new product develop- tive aspects of an economy are concentrated. As ment management; operations and production international economic relations shift and the management; technology strategy; technology dynamism of international competitiveness bring cooperation (technology alliances and network

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 34 management); process commercialisation; and gen- type of interaction concerns the relations of indi- eral areas: complexity; risk; learning; creativity and vidual companies and the scientific and knowledge. Many of the problems in the commer- technological system within which their innov- cialisation of the results of scientific and ation activities take place. technological endeavour in the countries of South- East Europe are tied not only to, and especially not It is also necessary to identify key components exclusively to, material and financial resources but, of innovation systems operating in the individual to a great extent, and often decisively, to problemat- countries of South-Eastern Europe on the macro, It is necessary to replace ic processes of managing the various aspects of meso and micro level and their compatibility with the linear model of scientific and technological activity. modern trends worldwide. The necessary pre- innovation that has requisite for this is the complete compatibility of prevailed in South-East For a long time the linear model of the innov- statistical data on scientific and research Europe with a more ation chain has prevailed in the scientific and resources, allocations and results (Frascati nuanced model research activities of the countries of South-East Handbook, OECD, 1993), both internally and involving feedback and Europe. This model views innovation of starting with other countries, along with the statistics on bidirectional interaction with an initial research phase (discovery, invention, the gross domestic product (using SNA, the UN between the stages of the innovation, diffusion) followed by development, System of National Accounts) and international innovation process. production and marketing of new technology, exchanges. development of new products, manufacturing and possibly commercialisation. This linear flow logi- When examining the competitive character- cally took place from the research activity to istics of the economies of South-Eastern European commercialisation, and the institutional scientific countries, and comparing them with one another and research sector on various organisational lev- and the economies of more advanced countries, els was the main generator of scientific and the framework proposed by Porter in the research results which were basically treated as a Competitive advantage of Nations (Porter, 1990) public good. provides a useful structure, along with the methodologies of The Global Competitiveness What is at stake here is an essential transfor- Report (World Economic Forum; mation of the national innovation system from a http://www.weforum.org/) and The World system dominated by a single segment of scientif- Competitiveness Yearbook (http://www.imd.ch/). ic and research activity into a diversified sector system of innovations in which international In Porter’s model a state is most likely to suc- cooperation of a different type becomes especial- ceed in the branches of the economy or their ly important. When it comes to the countries of segments where diamonds are the most South-East Europe there are many topics of favourable, which is an expression he uses to regional significance that may be treated in this denote determinants of a system that mutually way: the transformation of the scientific and support each other in the achievement of the Technology is a key research system itself, economic cooperation and most favourable results for the system as a driver of competitiveness, the issues of protection of the whole. A flaw in any of the determinants will competitiveness, making environment, culture and cultural heritage. limit the potential of the whole branch of an it imperative that the SEE In the development of the new system of scien- economy to make progress and improve. At the tific research emphasis should be placed on the heart of the concept of competitive advantage countries deepen the interactive model of the innovation process, which lies innovation and change, including the interactions between stresses the central role of numerous interactions change and creation of new forms of competitive their national innovation between science, technology and the innovation advantage. On this view the objective of the systems and the process process in every phase. The interactive model operation and development of a company is not of developing combines two different types of interactions. One just to achieve maximum total income and profit competitive positions for type of interaction concerns processes that take in existing circumstances and with existing limi- their firms in world place in a company or group of companies that tations, but also to create, that is, achieve markets. closely cooperate in a network structure. Another competitive advantage by changing these cir-

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 cumstances and limitations. Competitive advan- competitiveness. This is extremely significant for 35 tage is the result of creativity in business the countries of South-East Europe, where one of operation, that is, an expression of the ability to the essential elements of the change in the com- engage business intelligence in the broad sense. petitive profile of their economic agents is the establishment of an interactive relationship The key element of this approach is technology, between the national innovation system and the and a national innovative system is the basis for the acquisition, maintenance and development of achievement of success in terms of international competitive advantage.

Keywords Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts, comparative advantage, innovation, knowledge economy

References & Bibliography • Dosi, G., Technological Paradigms and Technological Trajectories. The Determinants and Directions of Technical Change and Transformation of the Economy, in: Freeman, C. (ed.) Long Waves in the World Economy, Frances Pinter Publishers, London, 1984 • Dosi, G., The nature of the innovation process, in: Dosi et al. (eds), 1988 • Dosi, G. et al. (eds) Technical Change and Economic Theory, Pinter Publishers, London, 1988 • Dosi, G., Nelson, R. Winter, S. (eds) The Nature and Dynamics of Organizational Capabilities, Oxford University Press, 2000 • Porter, M. E., The Competitive Advantage of Nations, The Free Press, A Division of Macmillan, Inc., 1990 • Porter, M.E., Clusters and the New Economics of Competition, Harvard Business Review, November- December, 1998 • Lundvall, B-Å., Why the New Economy is Learning Economy, DRUID Working Papers 04-01, Copenhagen Business School, Department of Industrial Economics and Strategy/Aalborg University, Department of Business Studies, 2004 • Nielsen P.& B.-Å. Lundvall., Innovation, Learning Organizations and Industrial Relations, DRUID Working Papers 03-07, Copenhagen Business School, Department of Industrial Economics and Strategy/Aalborg University, Department of Business Studies, 2003 • Ernst D.& B.-Å. Lundvall., Information Technology in The Learning Economy - Challenges for Developing Countries, DRUID Working Papers 97-12, DRUID, Copenhagen Business School, Department of Industrial Economics and Strategy/Aalborg University, Department of Business Studies, 1997 • Lundvall, B.-A. & Johnson, B. & Andersen, E. S. & Dalum, B., National systems of production, innovation About the author Časlav Ocić is a and competence building, Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 31(2), pages 213-231, February 2002 corresponding member of the Serbian Academy of Contact Sciences and Arts (SASA). He has a degree in Časlav Ocić. Serbian Academy of Sciences and Arts Economics from Belgrade e-mail: [email protected] University and a PhD in Development Economics from Williams College, MA, USA. He has participated in over 60 research projects and coordinated more than 40. He has written ten books, and numerous chapters and articles in journals on economics-related topics.

Jerzy Duszyński, Leszek Kaczmarek, and Marcin Szumowski, Polish Academy of Sciences

Issue: Human capital is the cornerstone for the development of research programmes and for driving medium-to-long run growth. The interdisciplinary Ochota campus is an example of an initiative recognising this pivotal role of human capital.

Relevance: A primary goal of polices and research-fostering initiatives is to attract and retain high quality human capital. This makes specific programmes to attract human capital highly desirable and beneficial.

After 50 years of Introduction competitive at the European level. Combining the politically-driven pursuit of both basic and applied knowledge, the restrictions and 15 years n a knowledge-based economy success Ochota Research Campus in Warsaw can serve as depends on human capital. This notion was the primary example in Poland (See Box 1). of economic transition, recognised in the Lisbon strategy and it should competitive science in be the major target for driving economic devel- The total workforce on the Ochota Campus Central and Eastern Iopment through innovation in the new member now exceeds 5000, with nearly 2000 research sci- European Countries such states of the European Union (EU). Thus, the strate- entists, approximately 1000 post-doctoral as Poland can only be gy of Research and Development (R&D) funding in researchers and 9000 students. Approximately half nurtured by investing in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) of all researchers and PhD students work in the strategic research fields needs to focus on developing Centres of field of biosciences. The campus’s current annual and areas with the Knowledge based on concentrating human capital turnover is more than 50 million and its assets are highest human potential. and scientific potential. estimated to be worth over 150 million. These values can be considered quite small compared Scientific research pursues new knowledge and with some of their Western European counterparts, generates innovation (applied science). These but the real value of the Ochota Campus lies in its two areas are inherently linked, and drive econom- interdisciplinary expertise and human potential. ic development in both direct and indirect ways. The Ochota Campus is The publication and citation record shows that After 50 years of politically-driven restrictions the scientists from the Ochota Campus form a home to five leading and 15 years of economic transition, in Poland (as unique concentration of top researchers in the life Polish Academy of well as other CEE countries) competitive science can sciences in Poland. The Ochota Campus accounts Sciences (PAS) institutes only be nourished by investing in strategic research for about a third of Poland’s participation in the first in biosciences, together fields and areas with the highest human potential. thematic priority (Life sciences, genomics and with the Medical biotechnology for health) of the EU Sixth University of Warsaw Such competence centres can be found in all Framework Programme. Currently 25 funded pro- and 5 faculties of the new member states. They act as nuclei for fur- jects are underway with several more to be added Warsaw University. ther development, but are already highly following the evaluation of proposals submitted in

The views expressed here are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

Box 1. The Ochota Research Campus more suitable for applied research and industry-driven projects. The Nencki Institute plays a major integrative role in the The Ochota1 Campus encompasses 14 scientific institutions Polish life sciences community, hosting the headquarters of located within one square kilometre. Five leading Polish the Polish Neuroscience Society and Polish Biochemical Academy of Sciences (PAS) institutes in biosciences are located Society. there, along with the Medical University of Warsaw and its clinical hospital, the largest in the country, as well as 5 faculties of The Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), PAS, found- Warsaw University, the Heavy Ion Laboratory and the ed in 1957, specialises in advanced molecular biology and in Interdisciplinary Centre for Mathematical and Computational state-of-the-art computer modelling and bioinformatics. Modelling. Specific areas of research interest include: gene sequencing and mapping, regulation of gene expression and protein The PAS institutes located on the Ochota Campus include The biosynthesis as well as post-translational modification, muta- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology (www.nencki.gov.pl), genesis and DNA repair, protein kinases, protein the Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (www.ibb.waw.pl), structure-function relationships, antiviral and anticancer M. Mossakowski Medical Research Centre (www.cmdik.pan.pl), nucleotides, and polyprenoid structure. The Institute currently the Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering employs over 260 people of whom over 180 are involved in (www.ibib.waw.pl), and the International Institute of Molecular research. Its scope of operations remains focused on basic and Cell Biology in Warsaw (www.iimcb.gov.pl). research, but several teams are working towards facilitating The International Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology transfer of the accumulated knowledge into the higher educa- (IIMCB) was set up in 1997 and represents a special case as it is tion system and applied research. This has led to a formal the only research institute in Poland set up as a result of a spe- agreement with Warsaw University and creation of the Warsaw cial act of parliament. Quickly emerging as one of the top School of Molecular Biology (nearly 100 PhD students) and a research institutes in its field in Poland, despite its small size division of the Institute at the University of Gdansk. The (currently employing approximately 90 staff of whom over two Institute received the status of Centre of Excellence in thirds are research scientists), the IIMCB covers a wide range of Molecular Biotechnology (CEMB) within the 5FP and collabo- cutting edge research in cancer and cell biology, neurobiology, rates closely with French scientists within the framework of the protein structural biology and bioinformatics/computer model- Polish-French Centre of Plant Biotechnology. ling. The International Advisory Board, recruitment of all faculty The Medical Research Centre (MRC), PAS, founded in 1967 members through international competition, and lack of tenure employs 150 researchers from a total of 320 employees of the employment, make the IIMCB unique among Polish scientific Institute. Its work is focused on fundamental and clinical institutions. Since the beginning of its active operations in research in physiology and neurophysiology, neuroimmunolo- 1999, and its subsequent success and growing international gy, neurochemistry, neuropathology, neurology, neurosurgery, recognition, the IIMCB can be viewed as a model case for form- experimental transplantology, endocrinology and cellular biolo- ing modern research institutions based on internationally gy at the ultrastructural (immunocytochemical and recognised principles and infrastructure as well as scientific histochemical) level. The Institute has a PhD programme in bio- potential of well established existing organisations. The IIMCB logical and medical studies with the main goal of educating is currently involved in 8 FP6 projects, an involvement which physicians/scientists and highly qualified researchers in the accounts for 2.2 million euros in the combined budgets of field of medical biology. Since 1997 the Institute operates the these projects. most modern animal house facility in this part of Europe 3000 To a large extent, the IIMCB can be considered a spin-off from m2, used for breeding and experimental research on small and the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology (NIEB), PAS the large animals (rodents, rabbits, cats, dogs). The MRC animal oldest non-university centre in Poland with long-standing tra- house collaborates with many leading breeding centres in the dition of excellence in biological research. The Nencki Institute, US and Europe. founded in 1918, currently employs over 210 full-time staff (of The research work and the most important scientific achieve- whom 120 are research scientists) and trains over 100 PhD stu- ments of the Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical dents. The high quality of its externally funded research, Engineering (IBBE), PAS, are in two areas: i) bio-measurements excellent publication record, and strong international links and computer data processing for improved medical diagnosis place the Nencki Institute among the leading biological insti- and ii) support and substitution of lost functions of the organism. tutions in the CEE countries. The research goals of Nencki are The Institute, founded in 1975 employs over 150 staff of whom 70 to arrive at the molecular, cellular and organism-based explan- are involved in research. The Institute has participated in 6 EU- ations of excitability, movement, development, memory, funded research projects in FP5 and FP6 and collaborates on a learning, behaviour, aging and apoptotic death. Neurobiology number of scientific projects have been realized based on and biochemistry represent two main research areas of the research agreements with foreign companies such as Baxter Institute. The Nencki Institute is the only research centre in Novum (Sweden), Bayer (Germany), Novo Nordisk (Denmark). Poland in which neurobiology is studied from the molecular to the organism level. Research projects in this field span behav- Research focus of the Ochota Campus PAS institutes presented ioural, physiological, biochemical and molecular mechanisms above clearly outlines the leading areas of expertise in biomed- of brain activity and plasticity in physiology, pathology, and ical research, such as neurobiology, structural biology and during the aging process. The Nencki Institute has been bioinformatics. A strong clinical neurology programme, stimulat- involved in several research projects within the 5th and 6th ed by high-quality basic research, exists at the Medical University Framework Programmes of the EU (currently running 6 pro- of Warsaw Clinical Hospital located on the Campus. jects) and has the status of a Centre of Excellence in Bioinformatics and modelling groups at IBB and IIMCB closely Neurobiology. Two national competence centres in Brain and interact and are complemented by a strong programme at the New Therapy Methods as well as Bioimaging Centre use Warsaw University Interdisciplinary Centre for Mathematical and investments from structural funds in developing facilities Computational Modelling (ICM) (www.icm.edu.pl).

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 38 the final call for proposals. Active participation of Canada, France, Germany, etc. Many of them are Ochota Campus institutions in FP6 is stimulated by currently willing and eager to come back, provided its seven EU Centres of Excellence. Five of these are that appropriate conditions are offered. Much of the value of the in the fields of biosciences: CoE in Neurobiology Unfortunately, specific programmes addressing Ochota Campus lies in BRAINS (Bringing Research Advances in those needs have yet to be implemented in Poland. its interdisciplinary Neurobiology to Society, NIEB), CEMBM (Centre of The IIMCB serves as a good -although still far too expertise and human Excellence in Molecular Biomedicine, IIMCB), small- example how successful such a strategy potential. The CEMB (Centre of Excellence in Molecular might be. Therefore, efforts are being made to use publication and citation Biotechnology, IBB), MAMBA (Centre of Excellence EU Structural Funds augmented by national fund- record shows that the for Multi-scale Biomolecular Modelling, ing and EU research infrastructure programmes to Bioinformatics and Applications, ICM, Warsaw improve the situation. Networking is another scientists from the University and IBB), and CEMERA (Centre of important element of creating a competitive and Ochota Campus form a Complex Environmental Monitoring and dynamic environment supporting innovative unique concentration of Environmental Risk Assessment, Faculties of Biology research. Following the initiative of the PAS insti- top researchers in the life and Chemistry, Warsaw University). In recognition tutes, a national Research Network in Molecular sciences in Poland. of its integrative role in this region, the Nencki and Cell Biology with the participation of top Institute was selected by the European Commission Polish research and academic institutions has been as the host for the recent meeting of 18 EU Centres created. One of the main goals of the newly formed of Excellence in Bio-medical Sciences from the research network is to create an environment for The primary goal of New Member States (November 2005). accelerated development and support for talented development and young researchers. As its coordinator, the Nencki The activities of the EU-funded FP5 Centre of Institute recently applied for national funding to investments on Campus Excellence projects on Campus have resulted in the support the network’s activities in the coming year. should be to attract and establishment of six national Centres of Competitive distribution of postdoctoral fellow- retain top quality Competence and the Advanced Technology Centre ships and laboratory start-ups are the primary researchers in the in Biotechnology, applied Informatics and objectives of the proposed programme. Campus’s core fields of Biomedicine (BIM) in 2004. This trend represents a competence. However, shift towards applied science and focus on innov- The initiatives of the Ochota Campus institutions there is a dearth of ation driven research. The activities of BIM and the are timely and well matched with the proposed specific programmes in 6 national Centres of Competence, investments in researcher mobility programmes in the upcoming 7th Poland to attract back R&D facilities, equipment and infrastructure with Framework Programme as well as the early initia- scientists who are the use of structural funds in 2005-2006 are expect- tives of the European Research Council (ERC). In its working abroad ed to reach approximately 15 million. Several recent press statement the Scientific Council of the start-up companies are scattered throughout the ERC recognised “inadequate opportunities for Campus and new ones continue to form. researchers to achieve independence and adequate support at an early stage as research leaders in their The directors of the PAS institutes and the lead- own right. In view of this gap and the consequent ers of Ochota Campus Universities are fully aware difficulty in retaining and attracting to Europe top Networking is an of the critical role of human capital. The interdisci- research talent for the next generation, the Council important element of plinary Ochota Campus recognises and fosters the has decided that a first funding stream should be creating a competitive role of human capital in the implementation of its focused on establishing and supporting excellent and dynamic research programmes and the development of its early stage independent investigators.”2 environment supporting infrastructures. innovative research. Future developments Thus, following the The primary goal of development and invest- Considerable progress has been made in inte- initiative of the PAS ments on Campus should be to attract and retain grating activities and interdisciplinary research institutes, a national top quality researchers in the Campus’s core fields initiatives on the Ochota Campus since the early Research Network in of competence. In one decade (1980-1990) 1990s. Nevertheless, these actions are still frag- Molecular and Cell approximately 700 Ochota Campus scientists emi- mented and lack sufficient involvement from many Biology was created. grated to the United States, the United Kingdom, important stakeholders, such as relevant industries

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 or regional and local governments. Following small funding agencies at all levels. It is estimated that 39 investments in infrastructure with the aid of struc- strategic resource allocations (in addition to normal tural funds, creating positions and start-up recurring funding at the institutional level) via the laboratories for foreign and returning Polish scien- ESFRI programme, Structural Funds, national funds By 2020 Campus Ochota tists will be the main focus, paving the way for and industry funding of 200-300 million will be aspires to develop into investments in core competence infrastructure. required to finance the planned developments. an internationally recognised EU scientific By 2020 Campus Ochota aspires to develop into The cornerstone of making this vision a reality is research Centre with an an internationally recognised EU scientific research further development of the existing research infra- international steering Centre with an international steering committee, structure as well as establishing new facilities with committee, engaging in over 3000 independent scientists and over 1500 a Pan-European dimension. One such proposal is collaborative research PhD students. The Campus will engage in collabora- to create a European Institute in Neurobiology that with many satellite tive research with many satellite institutions linked would capitalise on high quality research and train- institutions linked through national and international networks. It will ing in this field. Among the main strengths of the through national and become one of the largest interdisciplinary bio- educational activities of the Ochota Campus are its international networks. science centres with the highest concentration of M.Sc. and Ph.D. programmes, which train an scientific potential in the CEE countries. The increasing number of excellent young researchers Campus will focus on developing its other core seeking to start independent scientific careers on The infrastructure such a competencies such as its internationally recognised Campus (typically following post-doctoral fellow- centre needs can only be expertise in neurobiology, bioinformatics and struc- ships abroad). The proposed European Institute in tural biology. The European research community Neurobiology would also present an attractive supported by balanced will be able to benefit from the national biobanks option for leading scientists working abroad, who funding from multiple and associated patient history databases of neu- are seeking an opportunity to return to Poland to international and national rodegenerative and age-related diseases, hereditary continue their scientific careers. sources, including an cancer, and rare diseases. The region will benefit increasing percentage from unique diagnostic capabilities such as genetic Concluding remarks from the private sector. screening, and biomedical imaging and microscopy Leaders of the Polish Academy of Sciences and labs using the latest technologies e.g., confocal, its institutes located on the Ochota Campus are electron, AFM microscopy, fMRI, PET, etc. convinced that only by focusing investments in strategic areas characterised by the highest scientif- Such infrastructure can only be supported by ic achievements and growing scientific potential, balanced funding from multiple international and Poland and other CEEN countries can contribute to national sources, including an increasing percent- building a European knowledge-based economy About the authors age from the private sector. In order to achieve and more prosperous society. The Ochota Campus Jerzy Duszyński sustainability, development of the Ochota Campus serves as a primary example how to put these ideas is the director of the Nencki Institute of Experimental requires a multi-stakeholder approach, with active into reality by sharing resources and joining forces Biology, Polish Academy of involvement of the scientific community, industry, at the level of researchers as well as policy makers Sciences, and the Polish local governments and administration as well as and politicians. delegate to the ESFRI Roadmap Working Group for Biological and Medical Sciences. Keywords Leszek Kaczmarek, Ochota Research Campus, biotechnology competence centre, Polish Academy of Sciences is the Chair of the Division of Biological Sciences at the Polish Academy Notes of Sciences. 1. Ochota is one of the central districts of Warsaw, Poland (www.ochotacampus.pl) Marcin Szumowski, is Head of International 2. Press Statement of the Scientific Council of the European Research Council following its meeting from Cooperation and Project January 24-25, 2006. Management at the Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Polish Academy Contact of Sciences. Jerzy Duszyński, Leszek Kaczmarek, Marcin Szumowski, Polish Academy of Sciences

Jordan Pop-Jordanov and Natasa Markovska, ICEIM-MANU

Issue: The pursuit of international research competitiveness is a proper response to the various societal pressures on human capacity and resources, including the brain- drain phenomenon. It contributes invaluably to fostering the human capital of the country, which constitutes its most formidable asset and resource in efforts towards sustainable development.

Relevance: In standard sustainable development indicators the S&T sector is poorly represented – additional S&T indicator(s) to measure the country’s capacity for internationally competitive research are needed. Such indicator(s) can begin by taking into account the number of centres of excellence, the number of researchers involved in international research projects and the amount of international investment in research attracted.

Introduction world faces today, the national academies of sciences created the InterAcademy Council (IAC), n this article the role of centres of excellence aimed at mobilising the world’s best scientists to A recent report by the in the process of European integration of provide expert knowledge and advice to national InterAcademy Council aspiring EU entrants is considered, analysing governments, as well as to international bodies, points to the need for and comparing the criteria for becoming such as the United Nations (UN) and World Bank. Isuch a centre and the European criteria for In its recent report, dedicated to worldwide centres of excellence, as a key to promoting selecting research projects. Moreover, centres of capacities building in science and technology, the successful science and excellence are considered from a wider per- IAC points to the need for centres of excellence, spective, indicating their possible societal as a key to promoting successful science and tech- technology in both the impacts and contribution to national sustainable nology, in both developed and developing developed and the development. The general findings regarding countries. According to the IAC, these centres in developing countries. centres of excellence are elaborated through the essence are “research programmes, within a example of the Research Centre for Energy, research institute, a university, or operating inde- Informatics and Materials of the Macedonian pendently, typically in one geographical location, Academy of Sciences and Arts (ICEIM-MANU), and deemed by merit-review to be of the highest particularly focusing on the compliance with international quality in personnel, infrastructure, the EU’s key thematic areas, as well as on meet- and research output.” Furthermore - “such centres ing high level research standards (See Boxes 2 should have institutional autonomy, sustainable and 3) financial support, knowledgeable and capable leadership, international input, focused research Conditions for Scientific Excellence agendas that include interdisciplinary themes, In response to the need for sound scientific applied research as well as basic research, tech- knowledge when addressing the critical issues the nology transfer, peer review as a systemic

The views expressed here are the authors’ and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 Table 1: EC evaluation criteria for research projects 41 Scientific evaluation Regional evaluation No Criterion Threshold Weight Threshold Weight 1 Relevance 4/5 1 2 S&T excellence 4/5 1 3 Potential impact 4/5 1 4 Quality of the consortium 3/5 0.5 3/5 0.5 5 Quality of the management no 0.25 3/5 0.75 6 Mobilisation of resources no 0.25 3/5 0.75 element, merit-based hiring and promotion poli- research results and achievements as the sole cies, and mechanisms for nurturing the new criterion for promotion. generation of S&T talents” (IAC, 2004). • Mechanisms for nurturing the new generation of S&T talent The conditions for scientific excellence Prospects for belonging to research groups that defined by the IAC (Ci) are the following: are recognised by, and well connected to, the • Institutional autonomy and sustainable finan- worldwide S&T community, thus ensuring the cial support opportunity to attain self-fulfilment - scientific, Freedom of intellectual pursuit without dog- social and financial. matic or political pressure, as well as administration in a flexible and non-bureau- Centres of excellence do not necessarily need Centres of excellence do cratic manner, complemented by regular and to have a large workforce and resources. Usually not necessarily need to adequate financial resources. they are small-sized units which could in a sense have a large workforce • Knowledgeable and capable leadership be considered to be the “SMEs” of S&T. Providing and resources. Usually Leadership by a person recognised by peers inter- for intellectual merit, creativeness and originality, they are small-sized nationally and who, besides having scientific as well as access to resources, such “scientific units which could in a expertise, possesses effective management skills. SMEs” could be empowered with research com- sense be considered to • International input petitiveness and capacity to play a decisive role in be the “SMEs” of S&T Mechanisms for ensuring quality through inter- the journey toward sustainable development. national projects and cooperation and dissemination of research results in internation- Scientific Excellence and EU RTD ally recognised publications. Selection Criteria • Focused research agendas that include inter- Having defined the conditions for becoming a disciplinary themes centre of excellence, the next question is how these Research efforts increasingly involving mul- conditions could be fulfilled. Participation in inter- tiple disciplines and require both theoretical nationally funded research projects is the most and applied skills. effective approach. The rationales behind this are • Both applied and basic research elaborated on in the example of the projects within Research programmes devoted to strategic the EU’s RTD framework programmes specifying research with prioritisation of subjects, properly the relations between evaluation criteria and the balanced with some long-term curiosity-driven conditions for scientific excellence. research. • Technology transfer As shown in Table 1, all the proposals to the Activities that cover applications and technology EU’s RTD framework programmes have to under- transfer as well as research. go two types of evaluation - scientific and • Peer review as a systemic element regional. The scientific panel of evaluators com- Rigorous and competent review of activities, prises outstanding scientists and experts from the both internal and external. relevant scientific field, while the regional panel • Merit-based hiring and promotion policies of evaluators is made up of experts drawn from Recruitment of the best S&T talents, with the region targeted by the proposed project.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 42 Appropriate weightings and thresholds are ject proposal should at least reach the threshold assigned to the set of issues intended to be a com- according to each criterion and in both evalua- mon basis for both evaluation types (which tions. Only positively evaluated project proposals The evaluation includes the relevance of the proposal, its S&T are ranked according to the total score and com- criteria applied excellence, potential impact, the quality of the pete further for funding. to the internationally consortium, the quality of the management and funded research projects mobilisation of resources). Hence, the criterion of Evaluating the extent to which a proposed pro- appear to be equivalent S&T excellence is applied only during the scien- ject addresses the objectives of the work to the conditions for tific evaluation (weight 1) and the project must programme from the corresponding Call, the criter- achieving scientific achieve the score of at least 4 in order to pass ion of relevance is connected to C4 and C5 excellence. according this criterion. The same holds for the (Focused research agendas that include interdisci- criteria of “Relevance” and “Potential impact”, plinary themes and Both applied and basic with the difference that they are applied only dur- research). Indeed, the objectives from the work pro- ing the regional evaluation. The other three grammes predominantly concern addressing the criteria are applied during both evaluations with key societal issues through interdisciplinary weights and thresholds indicated in the table research driven by priorities, as well as putting the below. In order to be positively evaluated a pro- concepts of basic sciences, to maximum possible

Box 1. Current Internationally Funded Research Projects of ICEIM-MANU Energy

No Project Title Project Leaders* Funding European Renewables for Isolated Systems – Energy N. Hatziargyriou 1 Commission Supply and Waste Water Treatment (RISE) J. Pop-Jordanov FP6 Production Process for Industrial Fabrication W. Soppe European 2 of Low Price Amorphous-Microcrystalline M. Ristov Commission Silicon Solar Cells (LPAMS) FP6 Regional Solar Thermal Programme – W.Weiss Austrian 3 Improvement of Technology and Production J. Pop-Jordanov Government Generation, Compilation and Evaluation 4 of Atomic and Molecular Data for Fusion R. Janev IAEA Plasma Diagnostics

Environment

5 Capacity Building for Improving the Quality J. Pop-Jordanov GEF/UNDP of Greenhouse Gas Inventories 6 Upgrading GHG Analyses T. Bosevski GEF/UNDP Establishment of a Continuous Water European 7 Quality Moni-to-ring System in Doirani W. Soppe Commission Lake (submitted)M. Ristov FP6

Bioinformatics

8 Bioinformatics and Neurofeedback J. Pop-Jordanov Sarafov Donation European 9 Electric Neuronal Oscillations and Cognition J. Pop-Jordanov Commission (ENOC) N. Pop-Jordanova COST

Science and Sustainability

Development of Researchers Mobility Policy European 10 Guidelines for the Region of Western Balkans D. Sanopoulos Commission (WEB-MOB)J. Pop-Jordanov FP6

* First/second name: international/national coordinator

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 Box 2. ICEIM Internationally Funded Research 43 The general findings on the role of the centres of excellence in the process of European integration can be shown through the example of the Research Centre for Energy, Informatics and Materials of the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts (ICEIM-MANU). ICEIM-MANU was established in 1994 with the mission of initiating and coordinating national research programmes and performing high-level research in selected fields, both applied and basic. Since then, a whole range of scientific activity has been carried out through over forty research projects, out of which twenty nine were international (funded by the EC, UN Agencies, USAID and some European governments). Specifically, the applied research of the Centre has been devoted to energy strategies, energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, as well as the environmental impacts of various energy technologies, including greenhouse gases emissions and climate change. The results contributed to some strategic documents, adopted by the government, which shape the national policy in energy and the environment sectors. The basic research of ICEIM-MANU has been focused on fundamental energy processes, incorporating topics from fusion physics, particle collisions and solar cell materials, as well as application of quantum approaches to brain processes. Most recent is the interest in the fundamental problems concerned with the genuine concept of sustainability, including negentropic and holistic indicators. At the moment, the permanent research staff of ICEIM-MANU includes four academicians, one senior scientist, two junior scientists and two research assistants, as well as three postgraduate students – volunteers. Together with over twenty collaborators from other local scientific institutions, they are particularly committed to international cooperation, partnerships and networking. This has resulted in a number of internationally funded research projects (currently ten: three EU FP6 projects, one EU COST Action (proposed and chaired by ICEIM-MANU), two projects financed by EU member governments, as well as two projects financed by UNDP/GEF, one by IAEA and one by foreign donation). As the list shows (Box 1), these projects cover four fields - energy, environment, bioinformatics and science and sustainability. Although the relation to sustainable development, particularly to its social dimension, is explicitly stated only in the last group, the other projects also incorporate various concepts from sustainable development, such as sustainable energy (renewables and energy efficiency) related to the economic dimension; climate change mitigation and water quality as components of the environmental dimension; and mental resources and capacities with corresponding mind indicators which could be attributed to the social dimension. These four fields (research interests) of ICEIM-MANU are in full compliance with European thematic research areas. In addition, the international cooperation and the internationally funded research projects are guarantee that the Centre meets high level research standards. Being realised under these conditions, the research preformed at ICEIM-MANU correlates with the actual R&D needs of SEE countries in transition in their efforts toward sustainable development (Pop-Jordanov, 2000, and Blinc, 2004). EU-FP6 EU-FP7 - Life sciences - Health - Information society - Food, agriculture and biotechnology - Nanotechnologies and materials - Information and communication technologies - Aeronautics and space - Nanoscience, nanotechnology, materials and new production technology - Food quality and safety - Energy - Sustainable development - Environment (including climate change) (including energy, transport, environment) - Transport (including aeronautics) - Citizens and governance - Socio-economic sciences and humanities - Security and space research

extent, in function of applied research. (The themat- review of the research activity, as well as merit- To be considered ic priorities of both FP6 and FP7 are listed in Box 1). based hiring and promotion. (C7 and C8, peer internationally review and merit-based hiring). competitive, research If the research project shows large focusing should produce results potential, originality and innovative approaches, it The potential impact of the project is judged that are applicable in will be given a high score when the S&T excellence according to the demonstrated added value in that they contribute criterion is evaluated. High quality personnel, or carrying out the work at national and European either to shaping so-called S&T talents, are a prerequisite to achiev- level, including the capability of the exploitation ing “high scores” in all three categories. Certainly, and/or dissemination plans to ensure optimal use national policies or can maintaining that kind of personnel implies peer of the project results. As such, this criterion is be employedin industry.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 44 directly connected to C3 and C6 (international International Research Competitiveness input and technology transfer). and Sustainable Development Considered from a wider perspective, centres European research projects involve a number of excellence could have additional societal of institutions and the quality of the consortium is impact and make a contribution to national sus- evaluated according to the extent to which the tainable development. In order to describe the participants collectively are well-suited and com- relationship between the international research mitted to the research tasks, and also to the level competitiveness and sustainable development, of involvement of SMEs, as a means of ensuring emphasis needs to be given to the topics and to the results will have practical application. In order the results of research. to be suitable as a group, each of the participating institutions has to put forward knowledgeable and In recent years, the number of EU and other skilled personnel, international input, as well as international research funds with sustainable activities that cover not only research but also development listed among their priorities has applications (C3 and C8, international input and grown steadily. This has therefore meant there is merit-based hiring). financial support for well-founded research pro- Internationally jects which deal with one or more of the aspects competitive research Quality of the management, among others, of sustainability. Being a response to this kind of thus makes an addresses the leadership of the participating insti- prioritisation, internationally competitive tutions. It is essential to assign this responsibility invaluable contribution research plays an important role in preserving to a person who possesses effective management and maintaining the environment and natural to the country’s human skills while at the same time being widely recog- resources for future generations, as well as in capital, and is nised by peers (C2, knowledgeable and capable supporting consumption patterns that are in line undoubtedly its most leadership). with the goals of health and prosperity over the formidable asset and long term. Again, the EU’s RTD framework pro- resource in the effort to Mobilisation of resources refers to the extent grammes could serve as a good example. As achieve sustainable to which the project foresees the resources indicated in Box 1, sustainable development is development. (financing, equipment, personnel) necessary for one of the thematic priorities of the EU’s FP6 success (critical mass). The proper financial plan under which the underlined issues are energy, definitely contributes to ensuring a sustainable transport and the environment. Moreover, in the financial support and the autonomy of the insti- priority list of the forthcoming EU FP7, the con- tution (C1, institutional autonomy) as well as cerns on sustainable development are not only providing adequate working conditions and maintained but even increased, since out of it salaries, particularly for young scientists three separate priorities have emerged (energy, (C9, mechanisms for nurturing the new genera- environment and transport). In addition, sustain- tion of S&T talent). able development is implicitly involved in most other priorities. Consequently, as shown in the example of the European research projects, the evaluation To be considered as internationally competi- criteria applied to the internationally funded tive, research should produce applicable results. research projects appear to be equivalent to the In this respect, its results should contribute conditions for achieving scientific excellence. either to shaping national policies in various Therefore, any scientific institution (including sectors, thus providing for knowledge-based small scale ones) capable of performing policy-making, or be employed in industry in research attractive to international funding order to enable developing, promoting and and/or participating in the international research transferring advanced technologies and know- partnerships, to a great extent may develop and how. In other words, the international meet the high standards required for centres competitiveness of research is a prerequisite of excellence and be highly competitive in the for establishing and sustaining “S&T-policy- “S&T market”. making” and the “S&T-industry partnership” and

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 ensures knowledge and know-how are an appropriate response to the various pressures 45 mobilised on the journey towards sustainability. from society on human capacity and resources, including the brain-drain phenomenon. By join- Finally, considered in the context of the recent- ing international research teams, S&T-competent ly introduced indicators for sustainable nationals, particularly young scientists, are pro- development (Pop-Jordanov, 2004) the achieve- vided a stimulating atmosphere in which to work, ment of international research competitiveness is in terms of both their professional satisfaction and

Box 3. The Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts (MANU) The Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts (MANU) was established on 23nd February 1967 as the highest independent scientific and artistic institution in the republic. At present, MANU has 38 full members, 31 foreign members and one honorary member, all elected for life. The basic activities of the Academy are undertaken under the auspices of its five departments: the Department of Linguistic and Literary Sciences, the Department of Social Sciences, the Department of Mathematical and Technical Sciences, the Department of Biological and Medical Sciences and the Department of Arts, as well as in five research centres: the Research Centre for Energy, Informatics and Materials (ICEIM), the Research Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (RCGEB), the Lexicographical Centre (LC), the Centre for Strategic Research (CSR) and the Centre for Areal Linguistics (CAL). The two research centres of MANU, the RCGEB and ICEIM are included as centres of excellence, i.e. centres of high scientific quality within the framework of the SEE-ERA.NET project, whose aim is the integration of the member-countries of the EU and the countries of South East Europe, with special emphasis on the countries of what is known as the Western Balkans, into the European Research Area (ERA). In the course of the virtually forty years of its existence, several hundred scientific and artistic projects have been realised, funded either from state or international resources or, to a lesser extent, from commercial ones. Thus in 2005 work was carried out on 63 projects of which 11 received international funding. The spectrum of the scientific research and the artistic interest of the members of the Academy is indeed a broad one - from the ancient past to the most current problems of the present day. The majority of the Academy's scientific and artistic projects are funded from its budget. These are mainly concerned with all the fields that the various departments of the Academy cover: linguistics, the historical and economic sciences and the humanities, the natural, technical and medical sciences and literature and the fine arts. Over the last four decades the Academy has organised more than a hundred scientific conferences, symposia and other meetings, as well as a great number of launches and promotions. They cover the activities of all its scientific departments and research centres. The Academy holds regular exhibitions at its Art Gallery. It has organised more than 70 exhibitions of various artists, members of the Academy or members of other academies. It has also presented the work of the founders of the contemporary visual arts in the country. In addition, the Academy has exhibited the works of a number of foreign artists and members of Balkan and European academies. Its publishing activity plays a very important part in the work of the Academy. More than 400 titles have been published since the foundation of the Academy. The majority of these are monographs, research project reports and the proceedings from scientific conferences and symposia, re-issued older editions, anniversary editions and joint editions with other academies. In addition, the scientific journal Prilozi – Contributions (the departmental periodicals) have been issued twice a year. Since 2001 the international journal Balkan Journal of Medical Genetics has been published by MANU and its Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Centre. More details on conferences and events organised by the Academy, as well as a selective list of the Academy’s publications, can be found at www.manu.edu.mk. The Academy collaborates with 18 European national Academies. The related corresponding agreements on inter-academy scientific and artistic collaboration encompass cooperation on the level of joint research projects, participation in scientific conferences and symposia and artistic events and presentations, study visits, as well as an exchange of research experience, publications and other information. MANU is a full member of the Inter Academy Panel on International Issues (IAP), the Association of European Academies (ALLEA), the Union Académique Internationale, and the Mediterranean Academy. MANU also collaborates with the European Academy of Sciences and Arts, under whose initiative the Central- and Eastern European Network has been established. MANU is also a founding member of the Inter-Academy Council for South-East Europe (SEEA). About the authors Prof. Momir H. Polenakovic, DSc., is an academician and the Vice-president of the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, and a Professor of Medicine at the Faculty of Medicine of the “Sts Cyril and Methodius” University at Skopje. Prof. Cvetan Grozdanov, DSc., is an academician and the president of the Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts, and a Professor of Art History at the Faculty of Philosophy of the “Sts Cyril and Methodius” University at Skopje.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 46 remuneration, as well as incentives to build up research are needed. Such indicator(s) should their careers in their home country. Internationally particularly account for the number of centres of competitive research thus makes an invaluable excellence, the number of researchers involved contribution to the country’s human capital, in international research projects and the amount which without a shadow of doubt, constitutes its of attracted international investment in research. most formidable asset and resource in the effort to achieve sustainable development. Conclusion The common denominator of all EU thematic An essential tool to monitor the progress along research areas is interdisciplinary strategic objec- this line are the indicators for sustainable devel- tives whose fulfilment requires scientific excel- opment. Still, in the present sets of these lence. Moreover, there is a close correlation indicators the S&T sector is poorly represented. between EU RTD selection criteria and World For instance, in the illustrative set of indicators Academies’ criteria for centres of excellence. for sustainable development in the US, the issue Also, internationally recognised indigenous “scientific and technological advancement” is research is essential for competitive economic characterised with only one indicator, namely: and social development. As contributors to these “Investment in R&D as a percentage of GDP” (US commitments, the centres of excellence, as shown National Research Council, 1999). Therefore, on the example of MANU-ICEIM, can lead the additional S&T indicator(s) to measure the coun- way towards the country’s eventual European About the authors try’s capacity for internationally competitive integration. Prof. Dr. Jordan Pop-Jordanov, is the Director of ICEIM- Keywords MANU. He is the author of over two hundred European integration; centres of excellence; research evaluation criteria; sustainable development. publications mostly in the fields of Engineering Notes Physics, Electrical Engineering, Sustainability 1. Negentropy is the loss of an entropy in a system caused by its having more entropy flowing in than out. Science and Brain Electricity. He has also held References the positions of Chairman of the Scientific Council of • InterAcademy Council (IAC), Inventing a Better Future, Amsterdam, 2004, p.105. BK Institute of Nuclear • Pop-Jordanov, J., Markovska, N., Pop-Jordanova, N., Simoska, S., Occupational Entropy and Mind Sciences “Vinca”, Dean of the Faculty of Electrical Indicators for Sustainable Energy Development, International Journal of Green Energy, Vol.1, No.3, Engineering, University of 2004, p.327-335. Belgrade • US National Research Council, Board on Sustainable Development, Our Common Journey, National and President of the Macedonian Academy of Academy Press, 1999, p. 237. Sciences and Arts. • Pop-Jordanov, J., R&D Networks as Negentropic Tools for Sustainability, in: Strategies of the Dr. Natasa Markovska, International Scientific Cooperation in SSE, Oxford-Tokyo-Washington, IOS Press, 2000, p.148-153. is a scientific collaborator at • Blinc, R., Zidansek, A., Slaus, I., Sustainable Development after Johannesburg and Iraq: The Global ICEIM-MANU. Her main research interests are Situation and the Cases of Slovenia and Croatia, ENERGY, Special Issue, 2004. energy strategies, energy efficiency and renewables, Contacts environmental impacts of Jordan Pop-Jordanov, Natasa Markovska, Macedonian Academy of Sciences and Arts (ICEIM-MANU) energy technologies, including greenhouse gases e-mail: [email protected] emissions and mitigation. She is the Chair of the National Committee on Climate Change and National Focal Point of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

Václav Paces, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic

Major changes after 1989 successor to the former Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences3 (after the separation of Czechoslovakia n the wake of the political changes in 1989, into two independent states). The Academy of the entire scene for research in the Czech Sciences is a continuation of a longstanding tradi- Republic changed rapidly. First, the govern- tion begun in 1784 with the Royal Czech Learned mental Council for Research and Society. IDevelopment was established. This council is chaired by a deputy to the prime minister and In the wake of a highly critical assessment of its consists of representatives of the country’s major performance, in the early nineties the Academy research institutions and ad hoc members cut its workforce by 50 per cent. Periodic evalua- appointed by the chairman. Its main remit is to tions of Academy institutes by international propose budgets for research covering all the committees of experts since 1993 have been per- main institutions and ministries to the govern- formed every 5 to 6 years, and basic funding of the ment. It is also responsible for defining the institutes is based on this evaluation. national research strategy. At present the Academy is structured as a net- The second important step forward was the work of 52 research institutes, staffed by roughly establishment by the Academy of Sciences of the 6,500 employees. The institutes are clustered into Czech Republic (AS CR) of the country’s first grant three science divisions, namely, the Division for agency. This agency is open to all scientists regard- Mathematics, Physical and Earth Sciences, less of their affiliation. This was followed by the Division for Life and Chemical Sciences, and establishment of the state grant agency1. This Division for the Humanities and Social Sciences. agency is today the country’s major research funding body, distributing money in the form of The supreme body of the Academy is the competitive grants for curiosity-driven research by Academy Assembly. It comprises the directors of a peer-review system. A number of ministries also the individual Academy institutes, elected scien- distribute competitive grants for mission oriented tists (one delegate for 50 scientists), and delegates research, strategic applied research and, in specif- of the Czech government, universities, and indus- ic cases, for the development of new technologies. trial and commercial sector. The Assembly membership totals 243. It holds two regular ses- The Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports2 sions annually but it can meet more often if supports various programmes for large interdisci- required. The Assembly votes on all important plinary projects. It also represents Czech science matters relating to the Academy’s aims. It elects the internationally. Academy President, members of the Academy Council, and the Scientific Council. The President Transformation of the Academy of and members of the Academy Council are elected Sciences of the Czech Republic for a four-year period, and they can be consecu- The Academy of Sciences of the Czech tively re-elected only once. The Academy Council Republic (AS CR) is a non-university research insti- is the executive body of the Academy. Its 16 mem- tution that was established in 1993 as the bers are responsible for all major duties. The

The views expressed here are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 48 Scientific Council is composed of scientists from The years 2006 and 2007 will see fundamental Academy institutes, universities, and other changes in the statute of the Academy of Sciences research institutes. It formulates major policies for in the Czech Republic. Until now, the Academy the Academys scientific development. The institutes were state institutes. As of 1 January Chairman of the Scientific Council is also a mem- 2007, the institutes will become “public research ber of the Academy Council. institutes.” They will have even more authority (and responsibility) over their assets, financial The basic units of the Academy are the research management, scientific programmes, cooperation, institutes. They are independent legal entities with etc. They will be allowed to start companies and to full responsibility for their own scientific programme. invest money they may generate by their research.

The primary mission of the Academy and its Let us note here that the former Czechoslovak institutes is basic research. However, to accelerate Academy of Sciences was run by a group of so- technology transfer, the Academy has set up a called academicians. They were originally elected Technology Centre. Individual institutes also coop- according to their scientific achievements. Later, erate with the industrial/commercial sector. however, especially after 1968, this membership Specific governmental programmes aimed at vari- was politically compromised. The status of acade- ous problems are tackled with the support of micians was therefore cancelled and the Czech corresponding ministries. The Academy partici- Learned Society4 was created in 1994, where the pates in these programmes wherever it is able. In membership is based strictly on merit. The Czech addition, the Academy institutes collaborate with Learned Society is an independent body of elected individual regions of the Czech Republic. The scholars that is financed but not otherwise influ- Academy of Sciences recently signed an agree- enced by the Academy. It represents the Czech ment with Eastern Bohemia representatives to Republic internationally as the most important and collaborate on historical topics and in solving spe- prestigious non-governmental scientific body. cific environmental problems of the region. International collaboration The Academy Institutes are active in education The developments described above were mainly through collaboration with universities. accompanied by an intensive increase in collabo- They organise special courses and are involved in ration with foreign partners. This collaboration many PhD programmes. takes place primarily at the individual rather than the institutional level. Many former formal cooper- Individual institutes collaborate on many inter- ation agreements were replaced by factual national projects. Collaboration in particular topic-oriented collaborative projects. This trend within the framework of the European Union is was strengthened when the Czech Republic expanding. Through the long-term exchange pro- became an associate member of the EU, and when grammes and international “Centres of it became a full member of the EU in 2004. Excellence,” Academy institutes are open to scientists from all over the world. Czech scientists have been relatively successful in the European Framework Programmes (FP). For The Academy is funded directly from the state example, Academy of Sciences research teams are budget. For this reason, it is financially independent involved in 98 projects in FP 6 (Table I), in four of any Ministry. However, research itself must be Centres of Excellence, and they participate in six supported through competitive grants from so- EURATOM programmes. The Czech Republic or called purpose-oriented funds. This support comes the Academy is a member of the All European from various domestic grant agencies and from Academies (ALLEA), the European Centre for international collaborative grants. Especially impor- Nuclear Research (CERN), European Molecular tant are the funds distributed by the EU, such as Biology Organisation (EMBO), Southern European financial resources from the Framework pro- Observatory (ESO), the European Science grammes. Foundation (ESF), the International Association for

Tool Number of Projects IP (Integrated Projects) 33 STREP (Specific Targeted Research Projects) 23 NoE (Network of Excellence) 12 Marie Curie 11 INTAS 7 SSA (Specific Support Actions) 9 CA (Coordinated Actions) 3 the Promotion of Co-operation with Scientists from type laboratory built around the terawatt Prague the Newly Independent States of the Former Soviet Asterix Laser System (PALS) that was originally Union (INTAS), and several other associations. It developed at the Max Planck Gesellschaft (MPG) in also participates in international scientific pro- Garching, Germany, and finally installed in a new grammes run by UNESCO, NATO, COST, laser hall in Prague. The reassembled and upgraded CONTACT, and many others. facility was launched in June 2000. It is used for studies of laser beam interaction with matter, and in Academy institutes collaborate directly with particular for generation of hot and dense plasma. partner institutes from EU countries in more than An important new part of the PALS facility is the 400 joint projects. At present Czech scientific insti- high versatility twin target chamber equipped with tutions are cooperating on the construction of the state-of-the-art diagnostics. Since the very begin- Large Hadron Collider at CERN, and are involved ning, the PALS Centre has offered a substantial in ATLAS (A Toroidal LHC Apparatus), ALICE (A portion of its beam time to European researchers Large Ion Collider Experiment), TOTEM (TOTal under the EU’s Large Scale Facilities programme. Elastic Measurement) and COMPASS (Common Muon Proton Apparatus for Structure and Another traditionally strong area of participa- Spectroscopy) programmes. tion is in medically oriented projects. For example, the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the Several examples of the Czech Republic’s par- Academy participates in the GIANT (Gene ticipation in large European research programmes Therapy: an Integrated Approach for Neoplasticity are given below. Treatment) project. Its participation is aimed at developing new polymer vectors for specifically At the end of 1999, a "Contract of Association oriented gene transfer to neoplastic tissues. These between the European Atomic Energy Community polymers are based on water soluble bio-degrad- (EURATOM) and the Institute of Plasma Physics of able co-polymers of polyethylenoxide or N-(2- the Academy" was signed. The main goal is inte- hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide and DNA or gration of the Czech Republic into the European proteins. These structures are then transported to fusion research programmes. This agreement cre- tumours via specific antigens. The hydrophilic part ated the Association EURATOM - IPP.CR which of the complexes is degraded in vivo and the coordinates Czech research in the field of nuclear active compounds are released. The GIANT con- fusion and international collaboration with 20 sortium consists of nine European laboratories and associations. The main centre and coordinator is five companies involved in anti-cancer drug the Institute of Plasma Physics with its tokamak research and development. CASTOR. Installation of the new tokamak COM- PASS is in development. Another example of successful project is NoE ALTERnet (A Long-Term Biodiversity, Ecosystem Another example is the PALS Joint Centre, estab- and Awareness Research Network GOCE-CT- lished by the Institute of Physics and Institute of 2003-505298). This project is coordinated by the Plasma Physics of the Academy in 1998. It is a user- Centre for Ecology and Hydrology (Lancaster

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 50 Environment Centre, UK) and the consortium con- vis-à-vis the ERC and the 7th Framework pro- sists of 24 laboratories from 17 European gramme is available on the Cordis website5. countries. The Czech Republic is represented by An analysis conducted some time ago on the the Institute of Hydrobiology of the Biological implementation of research results gained in the FP5 Centre of the Academy in Ceske Budejovice. The and FP6 projects showed that only seven per cent of main goal of this project is to create a European Czech participants foresaw practical applications of network of centres that will coordinate monitoring the results. It may be helpful to follow in more detail of ecosystems in selected sites all over Europe. An how successful the individual projects are in terms important part of this project is the creation of of their applications, and of their benefits to science. European database of biodiversity. The Czech par- ticipant is preparing the first ALTERnet Summer Summary School on biodiversity in water systems. To summarise, the main points raised here include: The position of the Czech Republic • Czech research is performed in private insti- regarding European research programmes tutes, public institutions such as the Academy European scientific integration comes at a good of Sciences, in public Universities, and in state time as collaboration with US institutions is institutes operated by several ministries. becoming more difficult. This integration, howev- • The Academy of Sciences is the major institu- er, is not without its problems. The Czech Republic tion devoted to pure science and does not have the resources for large and expen- curiosity-driven research. sive research facilities, and this is why many in the • The Czech Learned Society was launched in Czech Republic consider building a European 1994. It is a society of scholars elected on the infrastructure of research facilities with expensive basis of their scientific achievements. instruments to be of crucial importance. The aim of • The state supports research by competitive such research centres would preferably be to pro- grants provided by several independent grant vide specialised expertise and be accessible to all agencies. researchers with good projects - a priority of the 7th • Integration of Czech scientists in the European Framework Programme. Support for individual framework programmes has been relatively projects should be also provided by the European successful. Research Council (ERC), as independent of the • The Czech Republic supports the European Framework Programme as possible, and the only Research Council that would distribute money condition for funding should be excellence. More for all kinds of projects based solely on their information about the Czech Republic’s position quality.

Keywords About the author Czech Republic, Academy of Sciences, European Research Area Prof. Paces is the President of the Notes Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic. Before 1. The address of the state grant agency’s website is: www.gacr.cz elected to this post in 2. The address of the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports website is: www.msmt.cz 2005, he directed the 3. The address of the Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences website is: www.avcr.cz Institute of Molecular Genetics of AS CR (1999- 4. The address of the Czech Learned Society website is: www.learned.cz 2005). His research group 5. The address of the Cordis website is: www.cordis.europa.eu was one of the first to completely sequence a Contacts genome, namely DNA of a Václav Paces bacterial virus. In addition, Academy of Sciences he discovered a specific Narodni 3 enzyme involved in the CZ-11720 catabolism of the plant Czech Republic hormone cytokinine. E-mail: [email protected]

Andrejs Siliņš, Latvian Academy of Sciences

ver the past 16 years Latvia’s science has been relatively successful in the call for proposals undergone a series of changes which have and is involved in 6 ERA-NET projects: 5 of them led to the development of a new system of are Coordination Action (CA) projects, and one - science funding and administration. Almost the Specific Support Action (SSA). The Latvian Oall the country’s research institutions, which for- Council of Science manages these activities; how- merly operated under the umbrella of the Latvian ever, the Latvian side is coordinating none of Academy of Sciences (LAS), have been integrated them. These projects cover areas, which are pri- into the universities. Consequently, the majority of oritised in Latvia, like materials science, genome active researchers now belong to Latvia’s two research, the ageing population, and innovation biggest state universities. policies. The priority areas (9) for basic and applied research for the years 2006–2009, as Latvia’s RTD community has established effi- approved by the Cabinet of Ministers of the cient international research collaborations Republic of Latvia are: agrobiotechnology; bio- through FP5 and FP6 projects and consortia efforts medicine and pharmacy; energy; informatics; to design project proposals. Advanced Latvian studies of Latvian history, language and culture, researchers and students have taken advantage of materials science; forestry and wood technology; current opportunities to access and use EU medical science; environmental research. research infrastructure while performing FP5 and FP6 projects. Also, driven by contributions from Latvia is actively involved in the ERA-NET individual high-level researchers and their scien- BONUS project (project no. 510204) for Baltic Sea tific groups and colleagues, as well as the leading Science – Network of Funding Agencies. BONUS research institutes in the Member states, bottom- supposes to proceed with step-by-step pooling of up processes in which the public administration is national resources targeted to research on Baltic not involved have also played a significant role. Sea problems to create a joint programme and The reason for this is the amount of funding or financial strength for the research community as a more specifically the ratio between government whole in this multidisciplinary field. funding and private sources. In most cases the resources attracted exceed the amounts received On the government level, there are only a few through grants by the Latvian Council of Science examples of collaborative action across borders, or ministries. In this context it is evident that for a e. g. bilateral co-operation with Germany, country like Latvia it is very important to direct France and Poland should be mentioned, but in national resources and plans so as to maximise these cases Latvia is contributing very small the synergies with the future FP7, the European resources and there is little evidence of strong Research Area (ERA), the Innovation Area, Higher national programmes with a collaborative Education Area and ERA-NET, based on methods approach, apart from Latvia’s participation in the of open co-ordination and efforts to promote the EUREKA and COST programmes, which are col- development of a knowledge based-economy. laborative programmes covering various fields of technology development for industry and coord- In the framework of the FP6 ERA-NET project, ination of basic research. As of January 2006, which was designed to coordinate national Latvian scientists have joined 10 COST pro- research programmes within the EU, Latvia has gramme actions.

The views expressed here are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 52 The LAS with the existing potential of its sharing mechanism. Regardless of the small- members elected for their excellence in science scale funding bilateral exchanges and joint pro- is also contributing to research cooperation. Half jects receive they are nevertheless attractive, as of all the LAS’s agreements and memoranda of perhaps, from little acorns mighty oaks may understanding on scientific cooperation have grow. Alongside maintaining regular exchange of been signed with academies of sciences in 14 information and experience with partner acad- EU Member countries. These are Austria, the UK, emies, the LAS can help individual scholars per- France, Germany, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, form work in the archives and libraries, and Lithuania, Poland, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, small groups of researchers to carry out smaller Slovenia, Hungary and Italy. In addition to the joint projects. agreements signed with Bulgarian, Norwegian, Russian Academies of Sciences and, most European and national research policy recently, with the Montenegrin Academy of related issues and regional activities Sciences, there are also several cooperation The government of Latvia has given the Latvian agreements with non-EU countries’ academies of Academy of Sciences the task of representing the sciences, for instance, in Belarus, the Ukraine country at several international institutions: and Israel. The LAS effectively runs bilateral • EU Scientific and Technical Research exchange programmes with the majority of the Committee, CREST. above-mentioned academies applying a cost- • Joint Research Centre Board of Governors.

Box 1. Latvian Science Awards Since 2003 the Latvian Academy of Science (LAS) has highlighted the most significant achievements of the Year in Latvian science. These awards have been well received by the public and the mass media. In 2005, the top ten achievements were: • Development of new quantum computing algorithms allowing for much faster solution of problems too difficult for the traditional computers and requiring larger storage capacity. (corr.mem.LAS Andris Ambainis, full mem.LAS Rusins-Martins Freivalds) • Introduction into medical practice of two previously developed original immunopreparations - Rigvir and Larifâns - applicable for cancer immunotherapy and treatment of secondary immunodeficiency. (Hon. mem. of LAS Aina Muceniece and Dr.med. Guna Feldmane.) • Development of new quantum computing algorithms allowing for much faster solution of problems too difficult for the traditional computers and requiring larger storage capacity. (corr.mem.LAS Andris Ambainis, full mem.LAS Rusins-Martins Freivalds) • Elaboration of the scientific research programme of Letonics (Latvian studies) with results of the last decade of research brought together in the first congress of Letonics held in October 2005 in Daugavpils and Riga. • Development of the non-contact asynchronous double-fed generator for wind power equipment without speed-reducer allowing for a substantial increase in the utilisation of wind power. (Dr.habil.sc.ing. Nikolajs Levins, Dr.habil.sc.ing. Vjaceslavs Pugacevs, Corr. mem. LAS Leonids Ribickis) • Development of new technologies for the production of ecological, healthy products from Japanese quinces and large cranberries. (Dr.biol. Edîte Kaufmane, Mg.sc. Dalija Seglina) • Elaboration of the holographic inscription method of immersion enabling inscription of holographic grids with a very small (50 nm) period. (Dr.phys. Janis Teteris) • Discovery of the link between the polymorphism of interleucine-1 gene and the inflammatory markers in coronary heart disease, thereby significantly adding to existing knowledge of the causes of this disease and helping proper therapies to be selected for patient treatment. (Biomedical Research and Study Centre of the University of Latvia, P. Stradins Clinical Hospital.) • Introduction of the medieval annals “Hermanni de Wartberge Chronicon Livoniae” - source of written history on the developments of the 14th century in the Baltics - into the body of scientific sources. (Translated from Latin; foreword and commentary written by full mem.LAS Evalds Mugurevics) • Accomplishment of the first investigation and review of the history and influence of the Latvian and German (incl. Baltic German) literature in Latvia: “German literature and Latvia. 1890-1945” (in Latvian). (Compiler and scientific editor full mem. LAS Benedikts Kalnacs, group of authors: Benedikts Kalnacs, Dr.philol. Inguna Daukste-Silasproge, Dr.philol. Mara Grudule, Dr.philol. Zanda Gutmane, Jana Verdina) • Scientific review of the introduction and cultural history of decorative rhododendrons as well as descriptions of the varieties of outdoor rhododendrons bred in Latvia. (full mem. LAS Rihards Kondratovics.) See the Web page of Latvian Academy of Sciences at http://www.lza.lv

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 After Latvia joined the EU, the LAS was given observer into the Nordic Research Board 53 the opportunity to become involved in the activ- (NordForsk), established in January 2005. ities of EASAC (European Academies Scientific Advisory Council), providing independent advice Along with a number activities on the inter- about the scientific aspects of public policy issues national scale, there has been a great deal of to those who make or influence policy for the activity lately on the national level. Latvia’s joining European Union. It should be noted that in 2005 the EU has resulted in an increase in the number a number of EASAC reports (some of the latest of government’s documents that acknowledge the titles include Infectious Diseases - Importance of need to support innovation, RTD and higher edu- coordinated activity in Europe and A User’s cation in natural sciences and engineering. There Guide to biodiversity indicators) have been dis- is a need for crisis-management measures in R&D tributed to specialists and experts of the field, as and higher education, which are recognised as key well as to the corresponding parliamentary com- factors for progress, competitiveness and wealth missions. creation. A step-by-step increase in funding has been proposed by the Law on Scientific Activity Latvia has a good representation in such and by the National Lisbon Programme of Latvia. organisations as Academia Europaea and The first supposes an annual increase of no less Academia Scientiarum et Artium Europaea than 0.15% of GDP in the state funding for scien- through individual membership of outstanding tific activity until expenditure reaches 1% of GDP. Latvian scientists, who are either full or corresponding members of the LAS. The following list of documents indicates significant progress towards positive changes: Besides representing Latvian science in world- • The Law on Scientific Activity. 2005. wide non-governmental international organisa- (http://www.ttc.lv/) tions, like the ICSU (International Council for • The National Lisbon Programme of Latvia Science), and the UAI (International Union of for 2005-2008. (http://www.em.gov.lv/em/ Academies of Humanities and Social Sciences), images/modules/items/item_file_11635_2.pdf) the LAS is a member of ALLEA (European • National Programme. Support of modern- Federation of National Academies of Sciences isation of the infrastructure of the national and Humanities). During 2003-2005 the LAS was science institutions (ERAF). Approved by the involved in the activities of the ALLEA Working Commission for Evaluation of National group on research activities. Programmes and Projects of the Ministry of Science and Education, 2004 Almost all LAS cooperation agreement part- • The Latvian Innovation System: Strategy and ners are ALLEA member academies. The bilateral Action Plan 2005-2010. Riga, November 2004. agreements also stipulate exchange of information (http://www.liaa.gov.lv/eng/LIDA/Publications and sharing of experience on evaluation of sci- /doc=1785) ence and funding procedures. The initial regional • The Single Strategy of National Economy. cooperation of the three Baltic (Estonia, Latvia, Ministry of Economics of the Republic of Lithuania) academies, started at the beginning of Latvia. Riga, 2004 1990s has been expanded to regular joint meetings of Nordic and Baltic academies. Within these Greater private investment in the RTD sector is meetings, the Baltic Conferences on Intellectual necessary in Latvia, but there is still little chance of Cooperation have been organised, thus renewing getting serious input on the national scale, because a tradition dating back to the 1930s. the Latvian economy is still in a state of transition and recovery and has a relatively short history of Yet another example of the first step of region- private enterprise, and companies in turn tend to al science-related cooperation is that involving pursue rather short-term plans. To move ahead joint representation of the national research-fund- though, Latvia’s RTD community, which enjoys ing bodies of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania as an international recognition, has to work with

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 54 transnational companies in Europe and worldwide standing foreign scientists with close links to on applied and semi-fundamental research pro- Latvian science. Thus, the Latvian Academy of jects so as to attract additional resources1. Sciences assembles Latvia’s most highly qualified scientific experts. The position and role of the Latvian Academy of Sciences For Latvia’s scientists, whether members of During the last decade the Latvian Academy of the LAS or not, the Latvian Academy of Sciences Sciences (LAS) has established a place for itself in is traditionally the venue for discussions on sig- the organisational system of Latvia’s science. nificant science issues. The discussions take According to the Law on Scientific Activity (in place at the meetings of the Academy and its force from 19 May 2005) it is recognised as a sep- divisions, at conferences, as well as through the arate legal entity under public law. The Latvian various commissions and working groups. The Academy of Sciences functions in accordance LAS has recently been focusing not only on spe- with its Charter, approved by the Saeima cific scientific questions, but also on the issue of (Parliament of the Republic of Latvia) and the the science, technology, and innovation system Statutes; it performs a mission of a classical- as a whole, thus placing the focus on the prob- European academy of sciences. Since 1994 it no lems of applied science. A good example of this longer has any scientific research institutes. was a meeting on “Problems Concerning the Nevertheless, it continues to cooperate with its Protection of Latvian Intellectual Property” held former institutes and Latvia’s higher educational in February 2005. One may certainly wish that establishments. It is worth noting that several the conclusions made by the Academy of small, but active research units are under the Sciences at such meetings were supported by the umbrella of the LAS, for instance, the Centre for Saeima and the Cabinet of Ministers of the Science and Technology Studies and the Baltic Republic of Latvia, as happened with the Latvian Centre for Strategic Studies. And, traditionally the Studies programme. Terminology Commission has been attached to the LAS (since 1946). In addition to analysing the situation of science, the Academy is making expertise and The Academy includes full and corresponding evaluation of major contributions given by members—196 distinguished Latvian scientists. Latvia's scientists. Among other awards in sci- Altogether 52 prominent figures from the sphere ence, Latvia's top award for scientists is the Grand of culture and education have been elected hon- Medal of the LAS. The results of scientists orary members of the Academy. The LAS has achieved during the past year have also been elected 92 renowned foreign scientists, many of marked by several other LAS awards some of whom are of Latvian origin. As a result, the LAS which now have the backing of major Latvian unites both Latvia’s intellectual potential and out- companies. About the author Andrejs Siliņš, Dr. habil. phys., Vice Keywords president of the Latvian Academy of Sciences and Latvian Academy of Science, Research, Innovation System, science awards professor at the University of Latvia (UL). He has been director of the Institute of Notes Solid State Physics, UL 1. We can already observe very good examples of this strategy among pharmaceutical and material (1984–1992), and Secretary General of the LAS sciences institutes, with, for example, the Institute of Materials and Structures at the Riga Technical (1992–2001). A. Siliņš has University working closely with AEROBUSS structures. been a member of the Latvian Council of Science Contacts (LCS) since 1990 and held Andrejs Siliņš, Latvian Academy of Sciences the post of the chairman of E-mail: [email protected] the LCS 1991–1993 and 1998–1999.

The R&D Scene in Montenegro

Momir Djurovic, Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts

Science and Montenegro international cooperation; increasing post-graduate education of junior researchers with emphasis he break-up of Yugoslavia and the military on Ph.D. students; providing scientific publica- conflicts that followed in the last decade tions and participation in conferences, of twenty century had dramatic conse- workshops, international projects, etc. quences for human resources in TMontenegro. These included a substantial brain The orientation is to support basic scientific drain and “brain waste”, as many professionals research, but also applied research. The Ministry of either left the country or gave up their profes- Education and Science has two main programmes: sions to seek better paid jobs elsewhere. the Human Resource Development Programme and the Scientific Research Programme. The main The general situation in the R&D sector in priorities of the Scientific Research Programme Montenegro presents several challenges. There is an include biotechnology, marine biology, urgent need to prevent the growing technological tourism, energy efficiency, telecommunications, gap in relation to the EU through more appropriate computerisation, environmental protection, materi- policy, both national and international. It is also als-related technologies, and health care. important to raise public awareness of the knowledge-based society, and the role of innovation and Montenegro’s existing scientific infrastructure technological progress for economic growth and has a number of weaknesses. There are wide dif- development. ferences in the development of different research units; a lack of adequate premises for laboratories A new Law on Scientific Research Activities and libraries; poor funding of research projects; a was adopted in Montenegro in 2005 by the lack of interest in studies where experimental Montenegrin Parliament. This followed on from a research is required; and equipment is nonexistent, new Law on Higher Education, in line with the old or inadequate. Regarding Internet there are cur- Bologna process objectives, which was adopted rently 16,100 hosts per 100,000 inhabitants and in October 2003. The new Law on Scientific- 100 PCs per 1,000 inhabitants. The libraries and Research Activities envisages the preparation of the information and communication technology an R&D strategy. The main objectives of R&D pol- services need to be rationalised to provide more icy should include more stability in financing the effective services, since existing technical equip- existing research potential, paying special atten- ment and computerisation do not meet tion to research at the Montenegrin Academy of international standards. The lack of periodical sci- Sciences and Arts and at higher education institu- entific journals is evident. tions (universities); professional assessment of research groups; modernisation of research equip- Compared to the EU, Montenegro is lagging ment and other infrastructure; increasing behind in terms of its investments in R&D, thus

The views expressed here are the author’s and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Commission.

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 56 investment in knowledge has to be increased CARDS) has generally been good and they have drastically. In Montenegro, the number of scien- supported institutional and capacity building at tists in R&D is reported to be low. R&D personnel Higher Education Institutions on a regional level. by scientific fields shows the largest concentration in the field of social sciences and humanities Many other objectives have also been carried (almost 50% of the total), the second most repre- forward, as defined by the EU-Balkan countries sented category being engineering and Action Plan on Science & Technology adopted at technology (21%) (see Table 2). It is estimated that the Ministerial Conference in Thessaloniki on June the number of patents is about 10-15 per year, 26-27, 2003. basically in the field of technical sciences. Around 95% of published monographs are in Economics, R&D expenditure as a ratio to GDP in Law, and National History, while less than 5% of Montenegro as well as in most other transition catalogued publications are engineering or natur- countries is generally very much lower than the EU al science fields. average. For the moment, possibilities for the modernisation and renewal of R&D infrastructure Although scientific institutions are not eligible are severely constrained due to the poor financial to compete for many sources of EU scientific funds, situation of research institutions. international cooperation in R&D in Montenegro has been increasing in recent years, with numerous In Montenegro, most R&D funds are public bilateral, regional and multilateral projects in vari- (more than 80%) and approximately 15% of this is ous fields. Active participation has been apparent dedicated to international cooperation and other to in the most important EU projects in the R&D area. bilateral projects. The Montenegrin economy is in In 2004/2005, researchers from Montenegro partic- transition and one should expect that in due time ipated in FP6 (SSA), in UNESCO/ROSTE projects, more private funds will be devoted to R&D. The as well as in some other multilateral projects government has as yet not provided legal mecha- (UNDP, CERN, NATO, IAEA, COST, INTEREG). The nisms (tax incentives and similar) to attract the experience with EC funded projects (TEMPUS, private funds into the R&D sector.

Table 1: R&D Expenditure in Euros 1996 – 20031

Year Allocated for Science % of Budget 1996 367,916.67 0.80% 1997 350,666.67 0.42% 1998 752,083.33 0.75% 1999 1,145,000.00 0.74% 2000 1,381,264.71 0.60% 2001 1,862,767.15 0.83% 2002 1,170,319.16 0.70% 2003 1,436,763.18 0.32% 2004 1,341,792.41 0.30%

Table 2: Montenegro: R&D personnel by scientific fields, 2004

% of Other Junior University total institutions researchers Ph.D. M.Sc. Ph.D. M.Sc. Natural sciences 12.6 59 36 17 52 56 Engineering and technology 21.5 97 48 43 94 83 Agricultural sciences 6.3 29 19 14 20 29 Medical sciences 10.3 28 22 28 56 38 Social science & humanities 49.3 138 130 102 274 209 Total 100.0 351 255 204 495 415

Books Brochures General 3 - Philosophy, Psychology 1 - Religion, Theology 1 - Social science 38 9 Mathematics, natural science 2 - Applied science, medicine, techniques 4 2 Arts 9 1 Literature 38 2 Geography, biography, history 17 1 Total 113 15

(Source: Monstat)

Montenegrin Academy of Sciences also runs the funds allocated to scholarships for and Arts students, young scientists, etc. The paramount science and art institution in Montenegro is the Montenegrin Academy of International cooperation has been increasing Sciences and Arts (MASA). It is organised along in recent years, with numerous bilateral, regional similar lines to many national European acade- and international projects in various fields. The mies. It has divisions for natural sciences, arts and MASA has signed more than 20 bilateral agree- social sciences and humanities. There are two ments with national academies of Sciences. It is research centres, Njegos (for literature and lan- member of a number of major international sci- guage) and ENECO (for energy and ecology). ence-related organisations and is active on the Prestigious scientists and artists are elected once international scene. It runs a number of interna- every three years to be the members of the tional (bilateral) projects and has hosted important Academy. The Academy runs a diverse range of international scientific meetings. The MASA scientific activities both on the national and inter- exchanges scientists on a bilateral basis with national scene. Beyond research on certain topics academies with which it has signed cooperation the Academy often plays the role of coordinator agreements. Quite a few international confer- for large interdisciplinary projects in Montenegro. ences have been organised by the MASA (each Some very important state projects are also run by year three big conferences are run by the MASA the academy. It organises conferences, work- and many more one day meetings are run, too). shops, and scientific lectures. It reports on many Only two international conferences are run regu- current problems such as those in economy, ener- larly every second year, in particular on gy, ecology, the efficient use of natural resources, Renewable energy and its applications and a etc. It has its own publishing output (periodicals, Linguistic symposium. The participants at the con- monographs and official publications) and pub- ferences come from many countries and many of lishes in both Serbian and English. It runs the them on the basis of cooperation with other library and archive which have an exchange pro- national academies. The MASA has organised a gramme with more than 200 institutions around meeting of presidents of SEE national academies the world. and has coordinated activities among national academies of SEE in 2004 and 2005. The Academy is mainly financed by the state budget. There are some donations and bequests, The MASA has recognised the key position of too, as well as income from a variety of funds. It R&D in a competitive knowledge-based econo-

© IPTS - JRC - Seville, December 2006 58 my. It has also observed several weak elements in how the Academy can best benefit Montenegro. the Montenegrin R&D system. And it has also It is obvious that its broader involvement in cur- developed new initiatives to stimulate the scientif- rent areas of scientific research and development, ic and technological competences of the research as well as in cultural programmes, is essential. In community in Montenegro. that sense, at present, it is evaluating previous MASA activities and analysing possible new Most of the transition countries have undergone involvements. Analysis of activities of other substantial institutional reforms in recent years, national academies is also being conducted so as which have also directly affected the R&D sector. to learn from the best experience worldwide. This New laws have been prepared and adopted in most is being carried out by the MASA and it is expect- of them, most frequently separately for the two ed that it will produce changes allowing the broad areas- Science and Technology, and Higher MASA more responsibility over R&D in Education – along with a number of institutional Montenegro. changes. A number of policy documents have also been prepared on the subject of R&D, containing The general question that remains, since the general objectives of R&D policies and the main Montenegro is small country, is the role and con- priority tasks. For the moment, however, in many stitutional form of national academies in small countries there is still a lack of a realistic long-term countries. Would they be just associations of dis- national strategy on R&D, although a few countries tinguished scientists and artists or would they be are in the process of preparing one. “working” institutions? In the MASA we are trying permanently to explore new mechanisms to share The open question in the transition period for scientific knowledge and to facilitate its use by the Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts is and with stakeholders in society.

Keywords Montenegro, scientific infrastructure, R&D, Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts

Notes 1. The data presented in Table 1 vary significantly over the period shown for a number of reasons: inflation was Montenegro was high in 1995-96 and the data shown for the later period includes only the money for projects, not costs of personnel in R&DR&D institutions.

Contact Momir Djurovic, Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts e-mail: [email protected]

About the author Momir Djurovic has a PhD from Imperial College. He has been a professor of electrical engineering and president of the Montenegrin Academy of Sciences and Arts since 2002. He has published 12 books and more than 220 scientific papers and has acted as a consultant for numerous large companies and several governments. He is a member of six academies of science.

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