–  The objective is the maintenance and development of operational tools for the control of on-line systems; the long term objective is the development of advanced system standardization and generic programming solutions. Global Spatial Data Infrastructure: better exploitation of spatial data

–  CRITECH holds a large amount of geographical data which may serve more Commission Services in better ways. CRITECH will evaluate and deploy the latest GIS technologies (commercial or open source) for map and image servers, web mapping (including 3D such as Google Earth or World Wind), geoprocessing, search and retrieval and sharing of its data. Model Development: making scientific models accessible for decision makers

–  Numerical and GIS models related to crisis management will be improved and newly created within the existing competence. The fields of competence are currently tsunami wave propagation, earthquake loss assessment, tropical cyclone loss assessment and epidemiological disease propagation models. CRITECH always integrates scientific models into user- friendly applications, transforming model outputs in context related information to support Commission Services.  Within the large discipline of disaster management, CRITECH will focus on three thematic application areas: Crisis Room Tools: building a Centre of Excellence in Crisis Communication

–  Support to development of EU Crisis Rooms will be continued with particular emphasis on: communication hardware and software to connect people and systems, development of emergency web portals, advanced alert services (SMS, fax, emails) and secure communication. Training for crisis room operators and managers will be organized. Global Natural and Technological Humanitarian Disasters: towards global automatic multi-hazard loss and impact assessment

– The Global Disasters Alert and Coordination System activity will continue. Emphasis will be on more advanced geoprocessing, improved hazard and impact assessment models and a global flood detection system.  Public Health: provide scenario analysis for public health decision makers

– The activity will focus on epidemiological modelling of the transmission dynamics of infectious diseases as a tool for public health decision making, including development of intervention scenarios. CRITECH will also lead the mathematical modelling network NEMO, established at the request of DG-SANCO. Middle and long term activities will target new spatio-temporal modelling approaches; models to explore the immunity-transmission interaction and its effects on pathogen spread and control; models to investigate the global environmental changes effects on the dynamics and control of infectious diseases. ]]> PROJECTS00000000030002C5 ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 41002 EHRLICH DANIELE 4 4.1
The main sources used are high resolution (HR) and very high resolution (VHR)latest generation satellite-derived data both in the optical and radar spectrum, existing cartography and GIS layers, web-based open sources, and direct field surveys for building the interpretation keys and for validation of the interpretation models and analysis. In security-related applications, satellite-derived data play an essential role as a synoptic, independent and objective source, especially in case of international controversy, anti-fraud and conflict related assessments. The complexity of these data and the operational constraints related to security applications, require special methodological emphasis on newly-defined morphological and textural image feature recognition and automatic discrimination, volumetric estimation from stereo images using improved automatic image matching procedures, and newly- defined fuzzy spatial inferential engines for integrating different partially non-consistent geo-information sources in the final assessment.

The action supports External Relations DG’s as well as other DG’s dealing with security issues or external aspects of internal Community policies (DG ENV – Monitoring Information Centre, JLS, OLAF). The action will also continue to provide strategic geo-spatial information to the European Council and bodies of the European Union outside the European Commission including EU Member States.Some of the information is also delivered to UN agencies and NGO’s addressing humanitarian aid and civilian crisis response.

The action comprises the following main components:

1. Earth observation (EO) and geospatial analysis for crisis response and monitoring for security
Crisis response by the international community and the EU includes humanitarian emergency response after natural disasters or as a result of man- made crises and post-crisis rehabilitation and reconstruction in the country or region concerned. The support to this crisis response will focus on integrating technologies and establishing procedures for rapidly collecting and processing geo-spatial data over crisis areas outside the EU. Part of these data will be devoted specifically to post-crisis damage assessments. These standardized procedures will be shared with partners in Europe contributing to the provision of crisis information. The activity will be centered on EO and investigate closely complementary technologies of navigation for precise location of events and processes, communication for rapid data transfer, and field data collection to complement information from EO.

Methodological focus will be centered on supporting the efficiency and consistency of the manual image interpretation (interpretation schema, quality control) and in testing newly-defined automatic and semi-automatic feature/pattern recognition procedures based on morphological description of the image, automatic change detection algorithms, and analysis of volumetric data extracted from stereo images by improved automatic image matching procedures.

The action will continue to develop the Global Crisis Atlas that includes procurement processing and standardization of global continental and regional datasets within a geographic information system framework. The data, available from statistical databases, image and geo-spatial archives as well as from open sources will provide the backbone of a geo-spatial infrastructure to be used to support crisis response and for the analysis of security issues in general.

2. Support to conflict prevention
(a) Conflict resources
The action will continue to develop image analysis algorithms for identifying and monitoring conflict resources that include mineral resources (diamonds, gold), illicit crops and illicit timber harvesting. The EO extracted information is combined with open source and other geo-spatial information to provide information products for decision makers. Methodological focus will be on object-based multi-criteria and multi-temporal processing of VHR satellite optical data, in both 2D and 3D for estimation of the excavated volume in case of mineral resources exploitation. Experimental integration of satellite radar data will be introduced. The final assessment will be made by formalization of a fuzzy multi-criteria spatial decision support system (SDSS).

(b) Assessment of urban areas in developing countries
EO and geospatial analysis will focus on the development of information layers on built-up areas in support of territorial management in urban areas (focus: mega cities in Africa). Current and future VHR EO missions for both optical and radar imagery will be tested. The information extraction on built- up areas, highly relevant for UN Habitat and international donors such as the World Bank, will be carried out in close cooperation with relevant Commission services and delegations. Concerning the detection of the settlement patterns valid at continental level, the methodology will focus on newly-defined procedures based on textural and morphological processing, the multi-temporal description by multi-source comparison (archived satellite images, existent cartography). The related general security impact assessment will be done using a fuzzy multi-criteria spatial decision support system (SDSS)

(c) Analysis of root causes for violent conflict and specific risk & situation assessments
On the basis of work carried out on both structural and dynamic indicators for armed conflict, the action will continue to work towards a possible set of indicators for the purpose of risk assessment for violent conflict in third countries. In parallel, the action will continue to investigate root causes of insecurity in specific regions and/or for specific themes. One of the activities will look at the relationships between environment, development and security. The action will continue to monitor active conflict areas using EO and other data and provide situation assessments in accordance with the needs of the External Relations DGs. The border permeability model developed by the action for the assessment of illegal migration pressure at the EU’s external land border will be spatially and thematically extended for a more general and global use. In some test cases, a formalized model of conflict risk based on fuzzy multi-criteria spatial decision support system (SDSS) approach will be developed and validated.

(d) Country profiling
The action will continue to work on country profiling on issues linked to conflict prevention and global stability such as non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, small arms and light weapons, and migration & development in accordance with the needs of relevant User DGs.

3. Support to GMES
ISFEREA plays a lead scientific and technical role in the GMES projects focusing on the Security, the “S”, aspect of GMES: RESPOND (ESA funded), and EC funded: GMOSS, LIMES, BOSS4GMES. ISFEREA also contributes towards shaping the fast track GMES emergency response service INSCRIT, which aims to develop a service in support of enhancing response to disasters both within and outside the EU. Special emphasis will be given to the definition and testing of quality requirements of satellite-derived products for security-related applications, together with the analysis and benchmarking of the characteristics of new platforms and sensors.

4. Support to the ACP Observatory for Sustainable Development
ISFEREA will contribute to the component “Crisis Response and Monitoring for Security” of the ACP Observatory for Sustainable Development. The ISFEREA action for the monitoring of conflict resources, such as diamonds, and built up areas in support of territorial management in urban areas will focus specifically on African countries participating in the Kimberley Process and African mega cities respectively. ]]> PROJECTS00000000030002E0 ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 42002 LEO OLIVIER 4 4.2 PROJECTS00000000030002FB ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 53101 SIRONI MARCO 5 5.3 5.3.1 The specific tasks are agreed with the customer in the framework of the JRC-DG TREN co-operation agreement and in the framework of the EC Support Programme (SP-1) with the IAEA.
This action groups the tasks that are related to development and deployment of sealing and identification equipment, and tasks related with environmental and electromagnetic testing of inspector equipment in the TEMPEST laboratory.

One line of development is to further rationalise the ultrasonic sealing concept and apply it to new applications. DG TREN has requested to develop a system for long term dry storage in CASTOR containers which entails new design of seals, reading heads (able to read in dry conditions) and development of remotely operated reading equipment. A proof of principle system has been developed and is under testing. A preliminary internal vulnerability assessment has been carried out at JRC to better show the limits of the design in relation with the cost benefits. A final vulnerability assessment will be carried out by ESO/IAEA on this system. The possible requests of modification will be implemented in the design.

IAEA has requested ultrasonic underwater bolt- seals and reading heads for the Cernavoda CANDU spent fuel storage, in Rumania. A system has been developed and is under field trial in Rumania for a one-year period. A preliminary internal vulnerability assessment has been carried out at JRC to better show the limits of the design in relation with the cost benefits and compared with the previous design. A final vulnerability assessment will be carried out by IAEA on this system. The possible requests of modification will be implemented in the design.

IAEA is also investigating a more widespread use of the technology in safeguards.

In addition to these new requests, the support and services for La Hague and Sellafield will continue. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003000316 ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 53104 COJAZZI GIACOMO 5 5.3 5.3.1 In the year 2007, PR&PP activity will be mainly devoted to assimilate the results of the demonstration case study carried out on the Example Sodium Fast Reactor, to initiate the evaluation of a GEN IV system, and to improve the PR&PP methodology and the Implementation Guide. Specific activities are defined by the PR&PP group on a yearly basis. IPSC will contribute to the activity of the PR&PP Expert group and agreed deliverables. It is further planned to strengthen participation in PR&PP of GIF and in INPRO project of IAEA. Other specific related JRC activities will be carried out in parallel.

Classic systems analysis/risk assessment techniques and related tools need special tailoring and development for a suitable application to a security environment. JRC ASTRA-3, Fault Tree analysis code has been especially developed for security related applications involving the need to model high probabilities values and mutually exclusive actions (e.g. different ways of attack). In these conditions the classic FT approximations do not held and exact calculations are needed. ASTRA-3 will be fully documented and delivered for external testing within selected community end users. Other techniques and tools will be considered and explored.

Trade Information Analysis for export Control. Export control is a key issue for non proliferation. The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) develops and maintains so-called trigger lists of nuclear and dual use items (IAEA INFCIRC 254). These are also embedded in the EU Council Regulation (1504/2004). The community control trade system provides an open source database (COMEXT) for export reporting and controls outside EU. The potentiality of using data of databases such as COMEXT for identification of nuclear exports trends will be explored. Multilingual searches might be also considered.

Archival and retrieval of technical reports in support of non-proliferation. Large amount of open source literature is constantly retrieved and employed. A tool for archival and exploitation of the information is needed. The tool will be derived from the Verity data-base and management system and will be initially applied at NUSAF level. Link with NUMAS-SIT will be considered.

Newtorking with ESARDA and ESReDA will be ensured. In the action, emphasis of the activity will be on methodological aspects rather on the assessment ones. Specialised knowledge to perform assessments, where needed, will have to be ensured by JRC related actions and external experts. Expert judgment will hence be one of the main sources of needed specialised domain knowledge. ]]> 01.1 Represent Euratom in the Generation IV International Forum Proliferation Resistance and Physical Protection (PR&PP) Expert Group. Participate actively in the activity of the Expert Group and issuing of main PR&PP planned deliverables. Liaise with other related GIF activities and EC projects EISOFAR.
01.2 INPRO initiative of IAEA. INPRO implementation manuals are under development for all INPRO assessment areas. The manuals for Proliferation Resistance and Physical Protection areas will be contributed.
02.1 Methodologies and Tools development. JRC-Fault Tree code ASTRA-3, which has been especially developed for security related applications, will be released for external test with selected end users.
02.2 Methodologies and Tools development. Analysis of trade Information for Export Controls. Identification of test cases to assess the potentiality of using e.g. COMEXT database data for identification of nuclear exports trends.
02.3 Methodologies and Tools development. Tool for archival and exploitation of information. The tool will be derived from the experience gained with the Verity K2 indexed data base and management system, powering the Information Analysis Centre (IAC).
03.1 European Safeguards Research and Development Association. ESARDA WGs: Participe in ESARDA activities on Integrated Safeguards and Verification Technologies and Methodologies. These constitute the natural fora to discuss new safeguards approaches, regimes and available supporting technologies and tools for integrated safeguards and treaty compliance monitoring.
03.2 European SAfeguards Research and Development Association. Contribute to ESARDA operation, Provide General Secretariat, Maintain and Further Develop Web Site, Ensure Bulletin Publication and Proceedings. Provide Web accessibility to the body of knowledge developed in the years by ESARDA in the field of Safeguards, non proliferation etc.
04.1 ESReDA. JRC is present in the ESReDA Board of Directors and also Publishes ESReDA Proceedings. JRC representative in European Safety, Reliability and Data Association will be provided and the publication of proceedings will be ensured.
]]> PROJECTS0000000003000331 ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 53105 GONCALVES JOAO 5 5.3 5.3.1 PROJECTS000000000300034C ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 53106 BERNDT REINHARD 5 5.3 5.3.1 PROJECTS0000000003000367 ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 53201 PEERANI PAOLO 5 5.3 5.3.1 There is a need to improve the accountancy uncertainty in MOX fabrication facilities. One contribution to this would be to improve the measurement of Pu bearing scrap (for material follow-up, for accountancy and for verification). Using the latest design tools and data interpretation algorithms JRC has developed the Scrap Neutron Multiplicity Counter, an instrument that can outperform existing methods. Moreover, following the request from DG TREN and IAEA, an R&D project has been launched aiming to the replacement of the traditional shift-register analyser for signal treatment to be replaced by a novel technology based on digital acquisition and processing. ]]> DG TREN needs a specially dedicated neutron system to monitor the transfer of large containers of PuO2 powders from the reprocessing plant of La Hague to the fabrication plant in Marcoule. A neutron scanner, called D0, will be installed at the reception storage of MELOX based on the design performed at JRC, that will provide also the calculation of the expected scanning profiles and the numerical calibration of the instrument. ]]> Equipment used for border controls in the fight against illicit trafficking needs to be upgraded in order to be more effective, comprehensive and easy to use. Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORMs) are the main cause of innocent alarms. DG TREN requested IPSC to start an activity on the characterisation of NORMs and of their occurrence in transport containers in order to study methods allowing the discrimination between NORMs and man-made radioactive sources and nuclear material. The ultimate goal of the work is to reduce the innocent alarm rate and detect nuclear material concealed in NORMs. ]]> The new DCVD (Digital Cherenkov Viewing Device) will be tested in field campaigns in order to assess its capability to detect missing/replaced pins in spent fuel assemblies and determine its applicability to fulfil TREN inspection goals. ]]> NUSAF developed the DAI (Data Acquisition and Interpretation) software tool for continuously monitoring/tracking nuclear material flow through a reprocessing plant, while verifying the coherency with safeguards purposes. The tool was deployed and validated in a major European reprocessing plant. Research will concentrate in further developing the software to allow its use to other real cases, including the extension and enhancement of current capabilities. In addition NUSAF has at its disposition the RADAR system, which is the data acquisition system of the EURATOM inspectors for mainly neutron/gamma signals. A generic access to these data would simplify the analysis and interpretation. A standard OPC DA server has to be integrated to the RADAR system. The OPC compliant data historian then allows the DAI software tool to analyse also the neutron/gamma signals. ]]> For the inspection of suspect containers with dangerous or illegal fluids, a non-invasive ultrasonic device is under development. The objective is to construct and test a prototype that measures the liquid-specific sound speed without the need for input of external parameters. Two methods are analysed: the time domain reflectometry in case the signal of two transducers with their geometrical relationship are used or the resonance spectra analysis in case a swept burst is used. Further research will focus on the investigation of the miniaturization of the densitometry and more detailed microfluidic analyses of the electrophoresis filling mechanismof a microchip for the characterization of radioactive solutions. ]]> EURITRACK is an Indirect Action aimed at developing an active neutron interrogation system to detect explosives in cargo containers. JRC contribution will focus on the development of the software system controlling the measurement system hardware, analysing and archiving the results and documenting the work. The 2007 work plan schedules the installation and field testing of the EURITRACK prototype. ]]> JRC participates to the Hawkeye project aiming to develop an airborne or satellite-borne hyper-spectral sensor for the detection of releases of substances that could be a fingerprint of clandestine nuclear activities. ]]> The reduction of calorimetry measurement times will boost its use in infield safeguard applications. The aim of the work is to cut down measurement times and improve accuracy, stability and reliability of the hardware and software systems.]]> PROJECTS0000000003000382 ADDABBO CARMELO 15/09/2006 53202 POUCET ANDRE 5 5.3 5.3.2 PROJECTS00000000030003F9 ADDABBO CARMELO 18/09/2006 32003 PINTO VIEIRA ARTUR 3 3.2 Fundamental research should not be marginalized. Applied engineering oriented R&D and fundamental research should be well balanced. Development of innovative techniques and methods to improve the seismic performance of buildings, infrastructures (and their components) and integrated approaches in a city or /and network scale are of prior importance. Furthermore, more explicit performance based engineering is required including life-cycle cost analyses.
Having in view the facilities and expertise of the JRC and the research priorities anticipated by stakeholders, SAFECONSTRUCTION will address the following topics:
• Life-cycle performance optimization in construction: (i) Definition and optimization of performance criteria for the whole cycle: (ii) Performance requirements for new materials and techniques; (iii) Rationalization of the approach to the issue of durability; (iv) Requirements for the use and disposal of constructions; (v) Requirements for the detailing of connections in pre-cast structures.
• Enhancing Safety and Sustainability of existing constructions (innovative and affordable retrofitting solutions and techniques) – (i) State- of-the-Art (ii) Analysis of existing renovation and retrofitting solution/techniques: Applicability, Performance, Costs, Issues; (iii) Development of innovative solutions for renovation and retrofitting: Advanced light materials and processes; New low intrusive renovation techniques.
• Innovative and sustainable construction technologies and materials (integrating design, construction and maintenance processes to respond to sustainability requirements): (i) New and light materials; (ii) Modular construction and assemblage; (iii) Pre-stressed/post-tensioned systems with re- centering and local dissipation characteristics for seismic applications
• Assessment and Protection of Special Facilities against severe loads: (i) nuclear installations, specifically refined seismic assessment methods for existing nuclear facilities, (ii) Advanced protection technologies and solutions, such as active and semi-active control, for bridges and other special constructions under earthquake, wind and traffic induced loads)
• Enhancing Testing and Use of the ELSA Laboratory and research Collaboration and Dissemination of results (Outreach) – (i) Virtual and distributed laboratory (tele- presence and distributed collaborative testing) (ii) Enhancing pseudo-dynamic test methods and associated technologies (iii) Databases (iv) Advanced modelling for numerical and hybrid simulations, (v) Optical measurement of field quantities, (vi) Networking with key European Partners and international collaboration, (vii) Contribution to the definition of a European vision on research infrastructures and its implementation. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003000416 ORTEGA GONZALEZ MARIA DANAE 18/09/2006 11302 DI PIETROGIACOMO MARIA PAOLA 1 1.1 1.1.3
The Action focuses on the collection and analysis of relevant data concerning trends and patterns of change in the researchers' labour market and in research based universities 'activities within a broad socio-economic context. It relies on complementary data production and research methods, and also seeks to provide prospective intelligence on the issue. Ultimately it aims to improve the understanding of researchers and innovation in the EU and identify medium and long-term policy implications, thus providing sensible and robust science- based support to policy-makers.

In the implementation of its work programme, this Action actively works with other research activities in the IPTS-SERA Unit. It takes part in joint activities concerning the Member states policy measures for enhancing the quantity and quality of human resources in research (Action ERA policies 12002), including a specific focus on the private sector (Action IRI11303) and collaborates with the activities concerning the Future of Universities (with Action FOR-ERA 12003).

In 2007 the Action will involve 7lines of activity, which can be categorised under 2 headings (see below). Most of these activities will be implemented in close co-operation with the DG RTD and other services of the Commission, as well as in collaboration with public and private stakeholders.

A. Human Resources

1.The Integrated Information System on European Researchers (IISER) activity aims at providing a monitoring system and an analytical framework of the skilled manpower available in Europe as, despite recent international efforts, the current situation is characterised by a patchwork of data and analyses that lacks coherence and comparability to serve the policy making purpose. This monitoring system, conceived as a user-driven service developed by the JRC in close coordination with DG Research, will provide a coherent set of trends' indicators on researchers stocks, training, careers and mobility. It will contribute to the design of evidence-based policy measures in the field of Human Resources in Research, development and Innovation..This goal will be reached by the integration of existing knowledge in a common analytical framework and the improvement in the collection of systematic and comparable data.

The activity will provide relevant data to the CREST Steering Group on Human Resources and Mobility.as it responds to policy-makers need of indications concerning the ongoing trends of researchers’ population Estimating these indicators is a complex exercise requiring the availability of a large variety of good quality data The analyses of the available data performed so far demonstrate that, at EU level, sound estimates of trends for researchers stocks and flows can be produced, while new data collection is required in order to produce sound estimations of mobility trends, career paths and qualitative information about researchers' motivations. The project aims at characterising these trends by applying different analytical tools, depending on data availability. Multiple sources of information and various analytical methods will be combined to construct these estimates. A specific methodological toolbox will be developed to fill possible gaps, identify the trends, raise the issues and put in perspectives the estimates. These trend’s indicators are disaggregated along the various dimensions that the customer requested to explore (e.g., year, age, gender, discipline, sector, country). Moreover, it is proposed that, when new data collection is needed and a sampling approach is necessary, the sample should cover a researchers’ population large enough for extrapolating the trend to the whole European researchers' population.In this context a Scientific Advisory- Peer-review Committee will be set up in order to validate the methodologies. Relevant Commission representatives (DG RTD, ESTAT, EAC) and other stakeholders (OECD) are involved in the main steps of the implementation.

2. Policies for human resources in R&D
The overall aim of the research activity is to develop a methodology to bring information on national policies and programs having an impact on the Human Resources (HR) in R&D into the existing structure of the ERAWATCH "Research Inventory" containing a comprehensive and coherent set of information on the policy context, and the structure and evolution of the RTD systems of in all the EU member States and the States associated to the Community’s research framework programmes. The methodology has to ensure that the information on HR in R&D can be collected in the future and presented for all countries in the inventory and in a cost effective manner. The methodology will be tested on a sample of five countries, this sample countries (FR, HU, I, D, UK) accounting for more than half of the researcher population in the EU and representing a diversity of policies and programs. The information and indicators collection and analysis will focus on four areas: the supply of researchers, rules, regulations and practices of researcher professions and careers, salary and other forms of remuneration and relevant national policies. This activity line is developed in close co-operation with Action ERA policies 12002 and is co- financed by JRC-IPTS and DGRTD as part of the ERAWATCH service.

3. Pilot Survey on careers of mid-career researchers in the life science sector
The aim is to develop and test a new methodology to capture career dynamics of researchers in the life sciences. The quest for information centres around three elements of researcher careers:

Personal and education characteristics:

Career characteristics:

Job satisfaction.

The target group for the survey are researchers in the life sciences in the public and private sectors. Based on the need to survey a representative sample of researchers well into their careers (e.g. mid career) and the need for comparability of results with other recent studies (e.g. NetReAct), we will be drawing upon EPO and ISI Thompson databases for researcher information. Sample selection will be developed and tested.

A representative sample for researchers in the life sciences for the public sector and for the private sector will be produced for ten countries (Germany, France, United Kingdom; Italy, Portugal, Spain; Norway, Sweden; and, Czech Republic and Hungary) from EPO and ISI Thomson.

A systematic search will be carried out to establish the survey frame. An e-survey will be developed to pose questions to individual researchers. The goal of the e-survey is to reach researchers in life sciences and collect as much information on their careers and experiences as possible. Comparability with previous studies will be ensured by our sample selection, field criteria and definitions. For example, our fields will provide for comparisons with the field of life sciences as defined in the NetReAct study implemented in 2005.This activity line is financed by DG JRC- IPTS.

4. The Future of Researcher Profession: Skill needs in a changing environment
To meet the challenges of an increasingly competitive global economy, especially low cost competitors such as India and China, EU governments are striving to move the Union to become a knowledge based society and economy. To do this they are investing more or less heavily, in skill development and University education. The research activity will focus on identifying and analysing the different programs implemented by Member States in order to overcome persistent mismatches between research graduates qualifications and the needs of the labour market and to offer candidates aiming for a professional research career basic skills in research and IPR management, communication, networking, entrepreneurship and team-working in addition to training in research techniques specific to their area. Eventually, the activity aims at contributing relevant information to the peer learning clusters set up within the Education and Training 2010 work programme. This activity line is directly financed by the JRC.

B. Universities

The Commission is not a direct actor in the modernisation of universities, but it can play a catalytic role, providing political impetus and targeted funding in support of reform and modernisation. Moreover it intends to support a new political impetus via coordinated interaction with Member States through the open method of coordination, identifying and spreading best practice and supporting Member States in their search for more effective university regimes.

1. Forum on Universities
This activity will contribute relevant information to the different expert working groups to be set by DGRTD C on the impact of full cost accounting on the University based research, on the universities out-put evaluation and careers of graduates and on the implementation of the Bologna process to doctorates and graduates schools, diversified funding. JRC-IPTS has accumulated relevant experience in the problems related to data collection and analysis of universities activities during the last years and is therefore well placed to support the expert groups in this field. The contribution will consist in producing factual background documents on the situation in different Member States and an analytical "intelligence" of trends upon request. During this preliminary phase the activity is financed by DGJRC- IPTS.

2. PRIME « Observatory of the European University »
JRC-IPTS will continue its active involvement in research activity related to the « Observatory of the European University » tackling the emerging questions on the governance of universities regarding the organisation of research activities and related issues such as : laboratories and research centres vs teaching departments, interdisciplinary vs disciplinary organisations, allocation and rewarding mechanisms, articulation between teaching and research positions, career paths in research.. This project is expected to develop (with the participating universities) and present results for:

• a common framework for the characterisation of research activities undertaken in universities

• an experiment in gathering data under different institutional conditions

The overall objective is to provide universities with adequate tools for the governance of research activities and policy makers with relevant information for the design of evidence based measures at national or Community levels.

3. The Future of Universities
The aim is to contribute to the scenario building exercise on the future of European Universities within knowledge based society to complement the activities carried out in Action12003 FORERA. Understanding the key drivers of a successful change in the governance of universities education and research activities becomes essential for policy making at national and European level. The activity will develop possible visions on the future of European Universities which are key elements for the future of a knowledge-based society. The activity will look at issues related to governance of universities regarding the future organisation of research activities and possible future strategies of European Universities.

]]> PROJECTS0000000003000431 ORTEGA GONZALEZ MARIA DANAE 18/09/2006 11303 MONCADA PATERNO' CASTELLO PIETRO 1 1.1 1.1.3
It does so by collecting, analysing and reporting relevant and up-to-date information on industrial R&D and innovation in the EU through its various activities. The Action focuses on economic and technological analysis of patterns and trends in industrial R&D and innovation within a broad socio- economic context. It relies on complementary data collection and research methods, and also seeks to provide prospective intelligence on the issue. Ultimately it aims to improve the understanding of industrial R&D and innovation in the EU and identify medium and long-term policy implications, thus providing sensible and robust science-based support to policy- makers.

In the implementation of its work programme, this Action actively works with other research activities in the IPTS-SERA Unit. It takes part in joint activities in Research Investment Policy Watch (RIP-WATCH) and ERAWATCH (carried out in Action 12002, ERA-Policies), and also collaborates on activities concerning the future of industry (with Action 12003, FOR-ERA) and human resources in the private sector (carried out in Action 11302, HREK). This Action also cooperates with the JRC's IPSC-G9 Unit in the implementation of econometrcs/modelling of the economic implications of R&D investment.

In 2007, the Action will involve 8 lines of activity, which can be categorised under 4 headings (see below). Most of these activities will be implemented in close co-operation with the DG RTD and other services of the Commission, as well as in collaboration with public and private stakeholders.

A. Primary data collection and analysis

1. The 2007 EU Industrial R&D Investment Scoreboard: The Scoreboard is published annually and lists the top 1000 R&D-investing companies and their top 1000 counterparts from outside the EU. It allows EU and national policy- makers to monitor and analyse emerging investment trends and patterns in industries and raise public awareness and support for industrial R&D investment. It also serves as a tool for companies to compare themselves against competitors. Work is underway for its 4th edition (the 2004, 2005 and 2006 editions have been already issued). This is a joint, co-funded initiative with DG RTD-C2 and benefits from established co-operation with DG RTD-C3, DG ECFIN- E2, DG ENTR-B1/B2/D1 and ESTAT, as well as from OECD, the European Industrial Research Management Association (EIRMA) and 'Union des Industries de la Communauté Européenne' (UNICE), who commented on the results of our analyses.

2. The EU Survey of Business Trends in R&D: collects, on an annual basis, data from companies on current and expected changes in business R&D investment activities. It looks at the factors shaping industrial R&D, technology strategies and technology acquisition processes. The first edition was issued in 2006, and work in 2007 centres on the establishment of a panel of industrial respondents. This activity is a joint, co-funded initiative with DG RTD. Beside up to 150 company representatives, who are involved as respondents and panel members, EIRMA, UNICE and other European industrial associations collaborate in this activity.

B. Taking stock of existing research on industrial R&D

3. Annual Digest of Industrial R&D: reviews a wide range of recent reports, studies and other publicly-available information worldwide on patterns and trends in industrial R&D and innovation. It aims to complement the information gathered and analysed in the Scoreboard and the Survey (points 1 and 2 above). 2007 will see the production of the third issue of the Annual Digest. The activity also complements the work carried out by Actions 11302 (HREK) and 12002 (ERA-Policies), which tackle human resources and R&D policies in Europe. It is a joint, co-funded initiative with DG RTD.

4. Scientific Conference on Private Sector R&D in the EU. This conference, first in the field at EU level, will take place in October 2007. It will seek to (i) provide a platform for discussing scientific advances, relevant for policy-making in industrial R&D and take stock of existing knowledge in the field; (ii) bring together the community of EU researchers and policy analysts to share their knowledge and improve their interconnectedness; and (iii) outline future avenues of research in industrial R&D and explore opportunities for collaboration. The Conference – which, if proven successful, will be considered to become a regular (biennial) event - will also provide a platform for presenting the findings of DG JRC-IPTS's research in the field. This is a joint, co-funded initiative with DG RTD.

C. Economic and policy analysis

5. Economic and Policy Implications of Industrial R&D Developments. This activity builds on information generated in other activities of the Action. It examines patterns and trends in industrial research and innovation and analyses their implications for EU policy and possible impact on economic growth. In 2007, it will conduct simulations of R&D investment scenarios and calibrate the R&D impact on a set of multi-country models. It will also explore, through quantitative methods, the relation between R&D investment and corporate performance. Furthermore, it will study economic, technological and policy aspects of a limited number of sectors and their differences in the prospective of private R&D investment. The results from these activities will be used to substantiate the work on policy analysis. These activities represent a joint, co-funded initiative with DG RTD. The modelling of the economic implications of R&D investment has also been set up and is implemented in co-operation with DG RTD-C3, DG ECFIN-E2 and JRC/IPSC- G9.

6. Industrial Research and Innovation in New Member States. This activity aims to provide policy-relevant information on industrial R&D in the New Member States by studying private R&D patterns and trends at the sectoral level and their relation to policy influences and framework conditions in these countries. The research includes the evaluation and comparison of R&D performance in selected sectors and the identification of good practice in this respect. In 2007, this work will be largely carried out in-house. It will extract the information on New Member States from other activities of the Action, complement the information, and present it with a special focus on the role of industrial R&D in catching up. Within the DG JRC Enlargement and Integration Action, this is one of the four specific projects the IPTS is providing to support the integration of new Member States into the EU.

7. Innovation and the Future of EU Industry. This activity looks at the identification of prospective 'markets' which could represent an opportunity for R&D and innovation. In 2007 the work will benefit form the results of a study on driving factors and challenges for EU industry in light of the future evolution of markets and the role of R&D and innovation. It is carried out together with FOR-ERA (Action 12003).

D. Exploratory research

8. Dynamics of innovation in low R&D-intensive sectors. This activity was started up in early 2006. In 2007, it will explore (i) innovation in low R&D- intensive sectors and the associated spill-over effects; (ii) the link between innovation in these sectors and some of its determinants, especially private R&D investment; (iii) the direct and indirect impact of innovation in low R&D- intensive sectors on business and macroeconomic performance; and (iv) the economic effects of innovation in low R&D-intensive sectors compared to the effects of innovation in high R&D-intensive sectors.

]]> PROJECTS0000000003000E57 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 22/09/2006 11402 DELGADO SANCHO LUIS 1 1.1 1.1.4
• Identification, characterisation and assessment of technological options for sustainable production and consumption. Understanding the conditions under which these technologies are developed, identifying the barriers to their development and use and analyzing the measures to improve their uptake. In particular the action will support DG ENV and DG RTD on the further development and implementation of the Environmental Technologies Action Plan.

• To support DG ENV and DG ENTR in the development and implementation of Integrated Product Policy: methodology development and product identification; assessment of the potential for improvement of selected products.

• To support DG ENV in the revision of the waste framework directive and the implementation of the thematic strategy on waste prevention and recycling through the development of an 'end of waste' methodology and the techno- economic analysis of the relevant material and waste streams, in cooperation as appropriate, with actions IES and IE.

• Prospective analysis on the interactions between innovation, competitiveness and employment of the integration process, in particular regarding different regulatory and policy approaches.

• Use and development of integrated impact assessment methodologies (IA structure, models and tools) to support the SG and DG RTD in the implementation of the SD Strategy of the EU, in particular regarding the implementation of the Communication and Guidelines on Impact Assessment: Maintenance of the IQ Tools website and support for services, IA training.

• Contribution to cost-effectiveness and cost benefit analyses, esp. environmental accountability frameworks (Environmentally Extended Input-Output analysis) and computable general equilibrium models, to support impact assessments of policies, measures and technologies

• To contribute to the policy making process related to the sustainable use of resources based on economic models for optimal resource management.

]]> PROJECTS0000000003000E72 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 22/09/2006 12002 DESRUELLE PAUL 1 1.2
ERAWATCH

ERAWATCH has been conceived to provide a "strategic intelligence service" to support evidence-based policy-making in the research field in Europe and to contribute to the realisation of the European Research Area by providing better knowledge and better understanding of national and regional research systems and of the environment in which they operate.

To achieve its aim, ERAWATCH collects data on national and regional research structures, organisations and policy developments. It organises and structures this information and develops analyses and reporting activities on policies, trends and the factors influencing them.

ERAWATCH is targeted at all those involved in research policy-making in Europe, for example, policy-makers in national ministries and in the European Commission.

A first version of the ERAWATCH service was made public in October 2006 on CORDIS. (http://cordis.europa.eu/erawatch). Work in 2007 will consist in operating the service (it is continuously updated with new information) and, based on the needs expressed by its user community and in agreement with DG Research, in consolidating the service and preparing its further expansion.

Main Actors involved
ERAWATCH is a cooperative undertaking under DG Research and DG JRC, jointly funded by the two; OPOCE- CORDIS also plays an important role in the hosting of the ERAWATCH website:

- DG Research is the prime “customer” and is an important user of the service. It participates throughout in the definition of the structure and of the organisation of ERAWATCH. At the outset of the work, it created an "ERAWATCH Advisory Group" that acts as an interface with the broader user community (Member States, Associated States and other Commission DGs) in order to help set priorities and to ensure that the service remains user-driven. Modalities of cooperation between JRC- IPTS and DG Research and mutually agreed objectives and deliverables are defined in an Administrative Arrangement signed in 2004 and in its technical annexes. The latest technical annex covers activities in 2007 and 2008.

- JRC-IPTS is in charge of developing the components of the ERAWATCH service, ensuring that they all work effectively, and that all deliverables are produced on time and according to user needs. It is responsible for the overall quality management of the service. To assist in implementing ERAWATCH activities, it has set up in 2005 an integrated network of national partners, “the ERAWATCH Network”, as mentioned above.

- OPOCE-CORDIS is the “system provider” for those ERAWATCH services provided through the Web and ensures seamless public access. Hence CORDIS is responsible for the operation of the public web site. An administrative arrangement was signed to this effect between JRC- IPTS and OPOCE-CORDIS in October 2005.

All these actors are prepared to make a long-term commitment to provide the ERAWATCH service.

At the interface between the Member States and the Commission, CREST is expected to be a key user of the ERAWATCH service particularly, in the initial phases of development of the service, in the context of its activities under the Open Method of Coordination (OMC).

Main structure of ERAWATCH
The ERAWATCH service is structured around two main interrelated components that complement each other: a research inventory and an intelligence service.

(a) The "Research Inventory" contains a comprehensive and coherent set of information on the policy context, and the structure and evolution of the RTD systems of in all the EU member States and the States associated to the Community’s research framework programmes. Comparative information is also provided on our main competitors (e.g., China, Japan, USA). The inventory is being built on the systematic collection and classification of four main categories of information at national -and regional- levels: research policies, main research programmes, research actors, including policy-making bodies and other organisations with significant influence on policies, and sources of information and data

(b) The "Intelligence Service" will provide regular and ongoing analyses of issues relevant to research policy-making. These analyses will in large part be based on the inventory, but will also be complemented by other information, some specifically collected for the purpose, including unpublished information.

In addition to these two components, it is envisaged that "Specific Support Services" can be conducted in line with a programme to be agreed between DG Research and the JRC. They will respond to specific requests from Commission services, primarily DG Research in the first instance, for intelligence that goes beyond that provided by the basic service. This type of specific support service will focus either on research policy in specific research fields or on specific research policy issues. According to their importance for research policy or the need for updating, some specific deliverables could subsequently be integrated into the standard set of deliverables for the basic service

Implementation of ERAWATCH
The ERAWATCH service is conceived as a project with a long-term perspective and is being built up progressively. Since no similar service existed on which the design of ERAWATCH could be based, the intention has been to arrive at the implementation of the full ERAWATCH service in several steps. Building up of the service will continue in the early years of FP7, until it reaches its full maturity. The aim is to develop over time a systematic coverage of all key issues relevant to the service.

Immediately following the end of the first "tranche" of the operational phase of ERAWATCH at the end of December 2006, a second tranche will start in January 2007, with duration of two years. It will build upon, consolidate and further expand the results achieved by the end of 2006.

The scope of the work to be developed in 2007 includes:
• Continuous operation of the ERAWATCH web site, delivering relevant, timely and accessible information. This will entail the continuous updating of the information provided in the ERAWATCH Research Inventory and collected by the ERAWATCH Network of national correspondents, and the publication on the web site of analytical content, providing analyses of current research policy issues.

• Ensuring that the ERAWATCH service retains its user driven orientation. This will require raising awareness of the ERAWATCH service and obtaining and integrating feedback from the ERAWATCH user community in order to adapt the service as a function of evolving user needs.

• Adapting the service based on feedback received from the users and experience gained during the first months of operation. This will entail in particular adapting the presentation and contents of the ERAWATCH Research Inventory and continuing to develop quality assurance of contents and workflow, from the collection of information to its presentation on the web site.

• Preparation of the expansion of the service to be implemented in 2008. The expanded scope is envisaged to include: a more developed regional coverage, coverage of additional non-EU countries (such as, Brazil, India), a possible coverage of research policy issues related to thematic areas (e.g. ICT, energy), reporting with a European perspective on RTD policy "dynamics" in Member States, and an expanded set of indicators.

• Provision of ad hoc policy support to CREST and to DG Research, based on analysis of the information collected by ERAWATCH, supplemented by additional information if necessary. This will entail in particular provision of analyses to support the work of the sub-groups setup by CREST by the end of 2006 in the context of its 3rd cycle of OMC activities, and to support DG Research's 2007 assessment exercise of the annual National Reform Programmes, prepared by the Member States in the context of the "Lisbon strategy for Jobs and Growth", by preparing factual background country reports.

Particular attention will also be given to ensuring that ERAWATCH remains well positioned and complements related information and intelligence services (such as DG Enterprise's TrendChart and OECD), through well coordinated collaborative activities.

Arrangements for subsequent phases of development of the ERAWATCH service will be jointly agreed with DG Research. All phases are strongly articulated in order to allow a progressive and continuous implementation process and to ensure optimum use of the available resources.

Financing of ERAWATCH
ERAWATCH is an ambitious undertaking. Estimated development and operation costs of the service for 2007 are of the order of three million euros.

ERAWATCH being a cooperative venture between DG Research and the JRC, the two parties co-finance the Research Inventory and the Intelligence Service.

Financial coverage of the Specific Support Services is expected to be provided by the Commission service or any other party requesting the support.

RIP-WATCH

The RIP-WATCH project aims at keeping track of and analysing policy developments in the Member States that have a bearing on the achievement of the 2002 Barcelona European Council objective of approaching 3% of GDP for expenditures on R&D in the EU, of which two thirds should come from investment by the private sector out of their own funds.
RIP-WATCH activities are developed in close coordination with DG Research. Modalities of cooperation between JRC-IPTS and DG Research and mutually agreed objectives and deliverables are defined in an Administrative Arrangement signed in 2004 and in its technical annexes. Final RIP-WATCH results will be available by the end of 2007. Beyond that date, it is envisaged that relevant activities of RIP-WATCH will continue under the ERAWATCH project. RIP-WATCH covers three geographical dimensions: national and regional within the EU, and international outside of Europe.
• The national dimension of RIP-WATCH consists of providing support to the Member States peer review process launched by CREST in the context of its policy mix OMC 3% activities. This process reviews Member States' policy mixes developed to increase investment in R&D. The results of a pilot exercise involving the peer review of Spain, Romania and Sweden were presented to the CREST Policy Mix Group on 20 January 2006. Six Member States (Belgium, Estonia, Lithuania, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom) expressed an interest in being peer reviewed in the next cycle. The contribution of the RIP-WATCH project will be to prepare factual background reports on the policy mixes to increase investment in R&D in these countries with the help of local experts.
• At the regional level, the project analyses the relations between the regional knowledge base and the regional economic structure for a selection of regions, using a limited number of indicators. A number of regional case studies were launched in 2006 and will be concluded in 2007. They focus on the socio- economic context and the policies on knowledge creation, technology adoption and innovation, with the aim to support the Mutual Learning Platform (MLP) on Investing in Research and Innovation in European Regions.
• Comparisons will also be made between the policies in Europe and the research investment policies developments in a selection of non-European countries.

RIP-WATCH has strong links with the activities under Action 11302 (Industrial Research and Innovation).]]> PROJECTS0000000003000E8D MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 22/09/2006 12003 SCAPOLO FABIANA 1 1.2
In 2007 there are two main activities the project will be focussing on:

• Organisation and scientific preparation of the third Seminar due to take place in 2008
• Scientific publication and wide dissemination of outcomes from the second seminar that took place in 2006.

2. FOR-LEARN: Support to mutual learning between foresight managers, practitioners, users and stakeholders of policy-making organisations in Europe

The FOR-LEARN project is financed by DG Research since 2004 and will be running until October 2007. The activity forms a substantial part of the European Science and Technology Foresight Knowledge Sharing Platform (KSP) that has been initiated by DG Research.

The aim of this activity is to consolidate and enhance European expertise on Foresight. To achieve this objective the project is pursuing the following three main lines of action that feed into each other thus establishing a continuous foresight learning cycle:

1. Enhancing the concept and practice of foresight by fostering and moderating continuous and targeted exchange of knowledge and experience between foresight practitioners, sponsors and other stakeholders.
2. Targeted support to actors engaging in Foresight especially newcomers and people from NMS and acceding countries
3. Enabling wide uptake of Foresight by making available Foresight knowledge more accessible through codification and dissemination. The first two activities are mainly realised in the form of ‘mutual learning workshops’ that can consist of either
• bridging services between newcomers in need of support – in particular in less favoured regions/Member States of the enlarged EU - and more experienced managers, practitioners and/or experts
• issue-related workshops and participative seminars to share, consolidate and transfer lessons between Foresight programme managers, researchers and users.

The FOR-LEARN group is preparing the workshops, providing the material for discussion, moderating the debate and documenting and spreading the results. Another support mechanism is provided through the FORLEARN online query system where practitioners in need of immediate information can post questions related to Foresight to the FOR-LEARN team who will either directly answer the query or refer to other adequate expertise.

The third activity is mainly accomplished through the development and continuous improvement of the ‘FOR-LEARN Online Foresight Guide’. This website is targeted to newcomers and gives an overview over Foresight design and the main tools and methods commonly used in foresight. The theory is illustrated through experience from real case examples.

3. Complementing FOR-LEARN: Foresight-related activities specifically targeted to New Member States and Candidate Countries. These activities will concentrate in raising awareness of the potential of foresight as a policy support tool, and providing the practical knowledge needed to conduct their own foresight activities.

4. Applying Foresight to specific policy fields relevant to the forming of the European Research Area (ERA) as well as European innovation policy

The project is aiming to gather anticipatory intelligence in specific policy fields that are of relevance for European research and innovation policy. The approach is to complement socio-economic analysis carried out by the other SERA unit research groups (Industrial Research and Innovation, ERA-Policies and Human Resources for a Europe of Knowledge) with a more long term analysis of the dynamics of change in the respective research fields. Respectively the following lines of activities are being followed in 2007:

• Scenarios on potential future lead markets for European industry - in collaboration with Action Industrial Research and Innovation. Complementing major EU Commission initiatives on underpinning long-term competitiveness of EU industry the project will outline some possible characteristics of European lead markets a explore how such lead markets might evolve differently depending on different framework conditions.

• Scenarios on the Future of European Universities - in collaboration with Action Human Resources for a Europe of Knowledge. The activity will look at issues related to governance of universities regarding the future organisation of research activities. The aim is to explore possible strategies of European Universities which are key elements of an emerging knowledge society.

• Implications of open innovation for EU industry - in collaboration with the ERA-Policies Action. The project is supporting the drawing of policy conclusions form various case studies in the framework of an OECD project looking at EU industries strategies relating to open innovation and globalisation.

5. Support to the determination of industrial technologies research priorities

Since 2001, JRC-IPTS has contributed to R&D policy design in the realm of industrial technologies by developing long-term visions (i.e. mainly in the form of scenarios) on the future of European manufacturing. JRC-IPTS contributions were done in the framework of a number of Indirect Actions under FP 5 and FP6 carried out for and financed by DG research industrial technologies to support their research priority setting as well as the setting up of the Manufuture Technology platform. Continuing this line of activity, FOR-ERA is currently carrying out a roadmapping project for the same client in the form of a FP6 Specific Support Action (SSA). The project (UCIM –User centred innovation for manufacturing) is looking at the emergence of ever closer integration of customers into companies innovation processes and investigating the demands this development is posing to European manufacturing industry in terms of technological and organisational competencies. The roadmaps that are being developed will outline possible future pathways towards user centred innovation approaches to be adopted by European manufacturing industry. Conclusions will be drawn for research funding priorities and other supportive policy measures.

The action aims to participate in further FP calls addressing the exploration of long-term challenges to EU manufacturing industry e.g. in support to the Manufuture technology platform.

6. Foresight culture within the European Commission

Explore possibilities for fostering EU-level Foresight and the establishment of a Foresight culture within the European Commission. Possible areas could be the preparation of framework programmes for research but also other long term strategy building processes.

Support to moderation of stakeholder dialogues underpinning decision making such as technology platforms.

]]> PROJECTS0000000003000EEF MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 22/09/2006 14001 CENTENO MEDIAVILLA ISABEL CLARA 1 1.4
In 2007, the Action will focus on two Tasks:

Task A) ICTs for an Inclusive Information Society and Quality of Life

In the context of a multi-annual Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) including an Administratrive Agreement under finalisation with the DG INFSO Dir H eInclusion Unit, the Action will provide specific policy support activities to the unit within the context, themes and objectives of the eInclusion Ministerial Riga Declaration of June 2006, including a Communication on eInclusion in 2007, a consultation process, an Impact Assessment, and the preparation of a strategy for the eInclusion initiative in 2008. Foreseen activities include: (a) based on recent research results at IPTS contributing with interactive support activities (working papers, presentations) to an eInclusion vision building exercise and further consultation process; contributing to the conceptual definition of an Observatory on eInclusion for policy support; and, (b) launching research on the role of Social capital and ICTs on social inclusion, based on: a conceptual elaboration of the linkages between social capital and new ICTs, an evidence gathering and mapping of the catalyzing role that social capital can play for promoting social inclusion and on the role that ICTs play in fostering social capital, and an exploration of enabling policies, regulatory context, and initiatives that foster social capital.

Under this theme, the Action will continue its policy support activities in the area of ICTs for Health and Quality of Life. In particular it will (a) launch research on the potential socio-economic impact of future models of healthcare (based on: the collection of evidence through desk research and interviews; the development and test of an impact assessment methodology; and with a group of experts, the development of possible future scenarios, the application of the developed methodology to assess potential future impacts, and, the elaboration of policy options to maximise this impact). The Action will (b) continue last years efforts to contribute to a more user-centric concept Independent Living in the context of an ageing society through and industry expert consultation process to identify the key challenges and potential policy options in realising the potential of today´s ICT based products and services and through the exploration of future user needs for ICT based applications, though a mix of research tools such as scenario building techniques.

Task B) The Future of eServices

In the context of an existing MoU with DG EAC Dir A, the Action will (a) through an expert scenario building exercise, validate and refine the potential of the concept of Learning Spaces in 2020 developed last year, and will (b) provide specific policy support for two upcoming Communications to be prepared by the Directorate: one on the links between Learning and Innovation and another one on future perspectives on Education beyond 2010. The latter support will be based on recent research results at IPTS as well as additional desk research.

The Action will also (c) investigate the socio-economic impact of social computing applications as exploratory research, based on desk research, experts interviews and an expert workshop. Based on the results, it will define, in collaboration with the customer DGs, the key research questions on the potential impact of social computing on the future of eServices. In particular, it will consider of the potential role of users in re-shaping the future eServices and on new innovation models.

The Action will (d) conclude a research project on eServices (eLearning, eGovernment, eHealth) developments in the New Member States. The research will provide country reports, based on expert data collection, analysis and assessment in each of the MS, and thematic synthesis reports based an integration of the national reports, and additional experts assessment and validation.

The Action will (e) contribute to building scenarios of the future of eServices in 2020 with a series of scenario building exercises, starting with eGovernment, and identify related policy challenges.

Finally, the Action will (f) continue to participate to the FP6 eGOVERNET project (competitive action), which aims at the creation of national eGovernment RTD programmes, as well as stimulate the integration of existing national eGovernment programmes at EU level. The Action will mainly focus on the latter objective.

]]> PROJECTS000000000300063E BORDIN GUY 19/09/2006 11102 LAMBERTY ANDREE 1 1.1 1.1.1 PROJECTS0000000003000640 LEHTO SARI 19/09/2006 51401 HAMBSCH FRANZ-JOSEF 5 5.1 5.1.4 PROJECTS0000000003000674 BORDIN GUY 19/09/2006 33002 VON HOLST CHRISTOPH 3 3.3 PROJECTS000000000300068F LEHTO SARI 19/09/2006 51402 PLOMPEN ARJAN 5 5.1 5.1.4 Active participation in international cooperation is crucial for the action and will be pursued continuously. Such cooperation is organised by the Nuclear Energy Agency of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD-NEA) and by the Nuclear Data Section of the International Atomic Energy Agency - IAEA-NDS. Projects and committees of interest to this action are the Joint European Fission and Fusion file (JEFF) project, the Working Party for Evaluation Cooperation (WPEC), and the Nuclear Science Committee (NSC) of the OECD-NEA and Coordinated Research Projects (CRPs), Data Development Projects (DDPs) and the International Nuclear Data Committee of the IAEA-NDS.
Use of the neutron measurement facilities by external users is supported through the NeUtron DAta MEasurements (NUDAME) transnational access project, the EURATOM-United States Department of Energy agreement and various collaborations. JRC-IRMM also participates in the EUROpean TRANSmutation (EUROTRANS) integrated project, the European Facilities for NUclear DAta measurements for Transmutation (EFNUDAT) integrated infrastructure initiative, and the Coordination Action on Nuclear Data for Industrial DEvelopments CANDIDE.
To maintain a position at the forefront of nuclear data measurements, state of the art measurement equipment and methodologies are required. In addition, the range of available measurement techniques must allow to address the issues of interest to users of the nuclear data measurements of JRC-IRMM. Continuous technical developments and a strategic choice of exploratory research projects aim at maintaining scientific excellence. Technical developments and exploratory research concentrate on improvements of the existing equipment, especially for measurements of total cross sections, neutron-induced inelastic scattering and neutron emission measurements and neutron capture measurements.
Training activities include on-site guidance of PhD and post doctoral students and support to students from external organisations. Maintaining competence is effected through the engagement of temporary staff such as seconded national experts or contract agents. Scientists from new Member States, Candidate and potential Candidate Countries are involved in the activities. ]]> PROJECTS00000000030006AA BORDIN GUY 19/09/2006 33004 JENSEN ANNE-METTE 3 3.3 *To support the standardisation of analytical methods required for official food and feed control *To operate the three Community Reference Laboratories (CRLs) for Mycotoxins (DG SANCO); for PAHs (DG SANCO), and for Water in Poultry (DG AGRI) *To underpin the science base of the CRL's by conducting prospective research (development of new and improvement of existing methods of analysis, methods of sampling, anticipating the needs of the National Reference Laboratories) in the fields concerned *To contribute to the building of international networks concerned with food safety and quality via involvement in FP6 and FP7 funded research projects, professional associations (AOAC International, IUPAC, FLEP (Food Law Enforcement Practitioners)) and informal groups having an interest in food safety related matters *To contribute to EU enlargement activities by offering hands-on training courses in analytical techniques for food contaminants and residues *To disseminate research results via peer reviewed publications and conference contributions
The activities are customer-driven and aim to supply competent scientific and technical support and advice to: *Policy makers (customer DGs, particularly SANCO and AGRI) in technical discussions for the establishment of European food legislation, *Official food control laboratories in EU Member States, Candidate Countries and potential candidate countries for implementation of EU legislation, *The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), in line with their risk assessment duties, *The European Standardisation Committee (CEN) and other standardisation bodies, to support the standardisation of methods for food analysis. ]]> PROJECTS00000000030006C5 BORDIN GUY 19/09/2006 22006 HELD ANDREA 2 2.2 Many matrix CRMs cannot be certified by IRMM or used by laboratories, unless suitable calibrants are available. For selected substances, where no high- quality calibrants are available, calibrant CRMs will be developed and certified. In order to provide RMs that are as close as possible to real life samples, possibilities for new matrix presentation will be investigated.
As a prerequisite to CRM activities, relevant analytical methods will be developed and implemented within the action. Participation to Comité Consultatif pour la Quantité de Matière (CCQM) or EUROMET/MetChem intercomparisons will support the transparent demonstration of the action's competence in CRM measurements on an international scale.
Also generic QA/QC issues will be addressed by the action, with particular focus on WFD related issues. This is done through the involvement in the Chemical Monitoring Activity of the WFD and the participation to the STREP EAQC-WISE (European Analytical Quality Control in support of the Water Framework Directive via the Water Information System for Europe).
The action will continue its collaboration with other Reference Material related actions, in particular actions 11102 Europ RM and 33003 Food RM (JRC- IRMM), the actions 11103 SEMI and 22005 IMES (JRC-IRMM) on QA/QC issues and the JRC-IES (action 22001 ATEAM) related to soil and water as well as the action 13203 APE related to air quality. ]]> PROJECTS00000000030006E0 LEHTO SARI 19/09/2006 53102 WELLUM ROGER 5 5.3 5.3.1 PROJECTS00000000030006FB BORDIN GUY 19/09/2006 15012 TRAPMANN STEFANIE 1 1.5 PROJECTS0000000003000716 LEHTO SARI 19/09/2006 51603 WAETJEN UWE 5 5.1 5.1.6 JRC-IRMM participates in and organises key comparisons among national metrology institutes, advises CIPM/BIPM and provides nuclear decay data. This includes co-operation with and support to the new Member States and (potential) Candidate Countries. New equipment is developed and existing measurement methods are improved to promote higher quality in primary measurements and better sensitivity in ultra low-level measurements, enabling their exploitation in the fields that support EU-policies.
Through the provision of certified matrix reference materials for a variety of sample types, this action supports the development of a practical reference system for radionuclide analysis. This work complements method development tasks of JRC-ITU (Action 51602). A regular international comparison scheme for the Member State laboratories active in measuring radioactivity in the environment and food is developed on request from Directorate-General for Transport and Energy to improve the comparability of measurement results reported by the Member States. The annual international measurement comparison and workshops for the participating laboratories, preparation of studies and actions to harmonise the radioactivity monitoring methods applied in the Member States for air, soil, water and food are organised jointly with JRC-IES (Action 51601). Underground gamma-ray spectrometry is used for applications related to radiation protection and as exploratory research into food authenticity and determination of nuclear data as well as within the scope of indirect actions (ILIAS - Integrated Large Infrastructures for Astroparticle Science).
Strengthening the activities of the CELLAR network, the Collaboration of European Low-level underground Laboratories, and of VERMI, the Virtual European Radionuclide Metrology Institute, and conducting training of young scientists especially from (potential) Candidate Countries across all tasks underline the enlargement dimension of this action. Tasks of mutual interest arising from the networks on a multi- or bilateral level will be integrated into the work programme.
Finally, under this action JRC-IRMM develops calibration instrumentation for security-relevant equipment.
]]> PROJECTS0000000003000731 BORDIN GUY 19/09/2006 33003 SCHIMMEL HEINZ 3 3.3 PROJECTS000000000300074C LEHTO SARI 19/09/2006 11103 ROBOUCH PIOTR 1 1.1 1.1.1 PROJECTS0000000003000767 LEHTO SARI 19/09/2006 22007 ROBOUCH PIOTR 2 2.2 PROJECTS0000000003000AF2 DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 13102 PETEVES ESTATHIOS 1 1.3 1.3.1 JRC COORDINATION: To lead the strategic developments of the Energy priority area at the JRC and the integration of the JRC energy projects. To engage in related PR activities.]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SUPPLY: To execute specific S/T studies related to energy technologies issues, either in response to explicit customer DG requests or in anticipation of new strategic directions and developments and for expanding the ASSETS project knowledge base leading to publishable reports and papers on: energy storage, distributed power generation, synthetic fuels from coal, capacity planning for the power generation sector, hydrogen production from wind, co-generation of hydrogen and electricity from fossil fuels, trans-European energy networks and the security of the European energy supply, coal markets, biomass co-gasification with coal, and advanced hydrogen production concepts. ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SUPPLY: To contribute to the development/and or update of the SETRIS energy technology database. ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SUPPLY: To execute and provide input to studies addressing deliverables of indirect actions - biorefinery market perspectives and process chain modelling (BIOSYNERGY) - overview and characterisation of potential hydrogen communities (ROADS2HYCOM) – design of plants that can co-produce hydrogen and electricity from coal and lignite whilst capturing CO2 (DYNAMIS) and - benchmarking of econometric models and databases for forecasting the developments of a hydrogen including energy system (HYWAYS-IPHE). ]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SUPPLY:: To provide DG ENV, as agreed, with S/T input in the drafting of a forthcoming Communication and its impact assessment on carbon capture and storage (CCS). ]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SUPPLY:: To provide S/T input and consult DG TREN as agreed, for: (i) the drafting of a forthcoming Communication on Sustainable Coal; (ii) the Comitology work on the Cogeneration Directive and the preparation of the national potentials (iii) the Renewable heating and cooling policy initiative, and (iv) the follow up of the biomass action plan (BAP). ]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SUPPLY:: To work along with DG TREN and DG RTD on drafting the Strategic Energy Technologies Plan (STEP), a follow up of the Green Paper on the European energy policy. ]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SUPPLY:: To assist the Commission to prepare, along with DGs TREN and RTD, the establishment of a Joint Technology Initiative (JTI) on H2 and FCs technologies and, in particular, contribute to the transitional structures of the JTI. ]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SUPPLY:: To further operate and contribute as the Commission’s assigned service in the Technical Group and the Project Review Team of the Carbon Sequestration Leadership Forum (CSLF), in the Implementation and Liaison Committee and its working groups of the International Partnership for a Hydrogen Economy (IPHE) and in the Executive Committee of the Hydrogen Implementing Agreement of the International Energy Agency (HIA-IEA). ]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SUPPLY:: To provide ad-hoc support to Zero Emissions Fossil Fuel Power Plant Technology Platform, the Smart Grids Technology Platform and the Biofuels Technology Platform.]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To establish a technical database for oil transmission infrastructures (pipelines, loading/unloading terminals and sea routes). ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY:To improve knowledge and understanding of grid vulnerability and reliability for (a) gas and (b) electricity. ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To establish a JRC internal Working Group on energy security (IE, IPSC, IES, IPTS). ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To fulfil the IE commitments in ongoing indirect actions co-financed by DGs RTD and TREN: Roads2HyCom, Dynamis, HyCell-TPSII, HyWays-IPHE, BioRef, COUNTERACT, ARGONA, CARGO, CATT. ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To maintain and keep the MAEID (Malicious Attacks on Energy Infrastructures Database) and GENERCIS (Gas Energy Network of Europe, Russia and the CIS)databases updated. ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To finalise the development and start the operation of the European Energy Risk Monitor (ERMON) supported by bilateral cooperation agreements with European research bodies, international organisations and Policy DGs. To expand the Network supporting ERMON by setting up ERMON User Groups (e.g. with PSI/Switzerland, ECN/Netherlands, IRGC, ec.) and to organise topical workshops and the 2nd International SEIF-CV Conference.]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To agree on joint studies on energy security of supply for different regions in the EU: data collection, methods development and application; to perform customer-driven regional case studies on security of energy supply, incl. region-specific pressures and actions by using existing multi-criteria decision making tools and visualisation techniques. ]]> TECHNOLOGY REFERENCE FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To identify gaps in risk assessment methodologies for the proposed EC regulatory framework on CCS deployment.]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To establish cooperation with DG JLS on security and reliability of energy supplies: technical meeting to establish EU-CIS technical network on security and reliability of energy supplies and definition of scope of pilot projects. ]]> POLICY SUPPORT FOR ENERGY SECURITY: To define specific tasks for joint activities as set out in the Group Report of the EU-Russia Energy Infrastructure Theme Group.]]> Enlargement & Integration, Training: To train 2 young scientists, where appropriate in collaboration with other academic and research organizations, on energy technologies at large and to organise 2 workshops.]]> PROJECTS0000000003000B0D DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 13103 TSOTRIDIS GEORGIOS 1 1.3 1.3.1 a) Integrated Clean Coal High Temperature Fuel Cell Energy System (ICCHTFC) by means of mathematical modelling and numerical simulation to predict component and system performance as well as to predict optimized integration and
b) Steady State Isotopic Transient Kinetic Analysis of proton exchange membrane fuel cell anodes ]]> 1) IEC TC 105 (in the official “liaison category A” capacity) standardising the fuel cell glossary based on EUR 22295EN report
2) ISO TC 197 WG 12 (in the official “liaison category D” capacity) for the preparation of a fuel quality test matrix for fuel cells]]> JRC Enlargement & Integration: To organize a summer school on fuel cell technologies.]]> PROJECTS0000000003000B28 DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 13104 MORETTO PIETRO 1 1.3 1.3.1 SYSAF major effort goes into experimental activities focusing on the specific areas of safety, efficiency and performance of hydrogen storage and distribution systems. The project makes use of testing facilities covering high-pressure testing of full-scale vehicle tanks, performance evaluation of sensing devices and solid-state storage technology assessment.
The topical contents of the R&D is streamlined with the needs expressed by the Steering Panels of the Strategic Research Agenda and of the Deployment Strategy of the European Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology Platform, and takes also into account developments in the International Partnership for the Hydrogen Economy.
The multi-annual objectives of the project in the 7th Framework Programme will contribute in the following ways to development of a hydrogen economy: *To harmonise, validate and standardise test procedures for the safety of hydrogen storage and distribution systems and to benchmark their operational performance. *To upgrade and operate reference laboratories for the testing and verification of hydrogen storage and distribution components *To carry out underpinning R&D research and disseminating results by publications in scientific journals *To provide European scientific and industrial partners with independent technical expertise on performance, efficiency and safety of competing hydrogen storage systems *To participate to the works of European and International bodies on Regulations, Codes, Standards (RCS) for the hydrogen economy
Major efforts have been spent in the 6th Framework Program (2003 – 2006) for the design and construction of the various experimental facilities and in the build-up of competences. The project can now or will very soon rely on the following laboratories: * The GasTeF laboratory for high-pressure hydrogen and natural gas tank tests, consisting of two facilities: full-scale vehicle tanks permeation and high-pressure cycling. * The SolTeF laboratory, equipped with various gravimetric, volumetric and spectroscopic instrumentations for the characterisation of solid-state hydrogen storage materials and systems. * The SenTeF facility, for the performance assessment of hydrogen safety sensors under various static, dynamic and cycling conditions. Furthermore, the project will rely on the modelling tools and the expertise available in the IE AMA project (Action 52101), in order to simulate operative conditions and accidental release scenarios by means of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Codes.]]>
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PhD thesis with the University of Delft, making use of its expertise on microstructural characterisation by means of neutrons techniques

Collaboration with the University of Uppsala (Ångström laboratory) on the investigation of the mechanisms underlying the hydrogenation of Mg-based intermetallics

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To participate to the works of the ISO TC197 WG13 on Hydrogen detectors (liaison D status), and make use of the results of the GasTeF testing activity in order to assist the drafting of a testing standard.

To monitor world-wide developments in the field of the safety regulations, codes and stgandards for solid-state hydrogen storage systems, in the frame of the NESSHY partnership.

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International Partnership for Hydrogen Economy (IPHE): co-organisation of conferences, participation to meetings and projects reviews upon invitation, expert contribution on demand to the IPHE working groups.

International Energy Agency IEA, Hydrogen Implementing Agreement, Task 22 on "Fundamental and applied hydrogen storage materials development": participation to the bi-annual workshops and contribution from insitutional activities.

International Energy Agency IEA, Hydrogen Implementing Agreement, Task 19 on "Hydrogen Safety": participation to the meetings and contribution to the C.3 activities on dissemination.

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To accomplish the commitments of the Training and Research Network HYTRAIN, by training one Marie-Curie Researchers and organising or contributing to training workshops.

To provide expert advice to scientific bodies according to the commitments of the Specific Support Action co-financed by DG-RTD Project HyProstore, led by the Tubitak, Marmara Research Centre, Turkey.

To disseminate information on project rationale, scope and output to the scientific community, policy makers and the interested public through the Public Relations and Communication (PR&C) Sector.

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]]> PROJECTS0000000003000B43 DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 51101 NILSSON KARL-FREDRIK 5 5.1 5.1.1 In geological disposal and long-term underground storage, waste packages constitute the first barrier in a multi-barrier system against the release of radionuclides, whereas in transport and above-ground storage they are the only (or the main) barrier and any failure would have more serious consequences with respect to exposures. The work is divided into two technical areas: a) design and assessment of waste packages and b) performance of systems for long- term storage and disposal of HLW and SNF and c) policy support related work.

a) Design and assessment of waste packages
Meeting the requirements for waste package integrity requires understanding of any relevant degradation processes and the behaviour manufacturing defects. The planned work includes modelling, material characterization and component testing and microstructrural analysis of material. Probabilistic models developed in the 6th FP relating the behaviour of ductile cast iron to defects will be further advanced and applied to other materials. Waste packages for transport and storage need to be designed to withstand dynamic loads. In 2007 research studies will include numerical modelling and comparison with benchmark tests of waste packages under severe impact and research to characterise and model material dynamic properties. A joint research programme with ITU (Action 51102 HLWM) will start in 2007 to investigate fuel cladding degradation under long term storage conditions and handling. A controlled radial displacement test for fuel cladding tubes will be developed jointly with ITU. At IE specific studies will performed on delayed hydride cracking and hydrogen embrittlement.

b) Performance of systems for long-term storage and disposal of HLW and SNF.
Different release scenarios and their consequences will be explored using probabilistic performance analysis tools together with models for the underlying physico-chemical mechanisms. Uncertainties in the long term performance of repositories can be reduced if the relevant processes for waste package degradation and radionuclide migration are sufficiently understood. Two such areas that will be investigated in 2007 are: i) ferrous material corrosion and dissipation of corrosion products during resaturation in buffer materials and ii) radionuclide retention in the hardrock microfractures. Upscaling and issues of integration of the various elements of performance assessment into the safety case will be addressed through collaboration in the CEC Integrated project PAMINA as well as activities in OECD/NEA.

c) European Centre for dissemination and harmonization
It is our ambition to establish IE as a centre for monitoring technology and harmonisation in the radioactive waste area at EU level. Thus we participate in the project CATT that deals with technology transfer for long-term waste management between EU member states. We also intend to further develop an international forum for design and assessment of waste packages initiated in FP6. Scientific support to DG-TREN, in the framework of an Administrative Arrangement will also be an important part of the action. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003000B5E DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 51501 MOSS RAYMOND 5 5.1 5.1.5 PROJECTS0000000003000B79 DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 52101 WILKENING HEINZ 5 5.2 5.2.1 Activities in Source Term Evaluation in case of a Severe Accident ]]> Contribution to the EC Network of Excellence SARNET (Severe (nuclear) Accident Research Network), where our work on ASTEC code development is integrated.

OECD/NEA: GAMA (WG on the Analysis and Management of Accidents), where our work on PHEBUS test interpretation is integrated. ]]> Activities in Hydrogen Safety and Production]]> SARNET, EC DG-RTD NoE on severe nuclear accident management

HYSAFE, EC DG-RTD NoE for safety of future hydrogen driven vehicles

HYAPPROVAL, EC DG-RTD Strep on draft guidelines for hydrogen refuelling stations

]]> Activities in probabilistic & risk assessment / reliability]]> Direct support to DG TREN on request]]> Support to integration of New Member States and Enlargement
(provided that appropriate funds will be made available)
In general this objective is an integral part of the above activities. Specifically, the active involvement in the dissemination of the PHEBUS program, hydrogen safety and the participation in the probabilistic and risk assessment activities will be further pursued. A high level of visiting staff from these countries is envisaged. In addition workshops might be organized]]> PROJECTS0000000003000B94 DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 52102 DEBARBERIS LUIGI 5 5.2 5.2.1 reactor pressure vessel integrity issues for long term operation, in particular: extended database for embrittlement of alloys and welds of targeted compositions; recommendations for transferability of laboratory fracture data to postulated sub-surface defects and support the IAEA Coordinated Research Projects.
]]> primary piping, in the framework of the European Procedure for Thermal Fatigue, including the development of its fatigue crack growth module, exploiting benchmark data produced by the Institute's thermal fatigue simulation facility.]]> core internals studies in high pressure-high temperature water chemistry loops: development of experimental capabilities, execution of an R&D programme and organisation of the AMALIA Expert Group.
]]> weldments using advanced neutron scattering methodologies. To develop novel experimental and computational methods and round robin exercises on residual stress measurements, validation of predictive numerical models, claddings and repair welds, and ageing duplex stainless steel.
]]> multi-scale modelling of material fracture processes, specifically addressing modelling of ductile tearing and steel embrittlement.]]> advanced reactor systems (complementary to SAFETY-INNO).]]> advanced analysis of integrity and vulnerability of NPP structures (primary components in particular) subjected to extreme loads by external threats; including the development of methods for decision making, expert elicitation and uncertainty analysis.
]]> Management of Partnerships. Support the co-ordination of NULIFE NoE and integrated management of the vital tasks of the AMES, NESC, NET and AMALIA networks. Contribute to PERFECT Integrated Project, COVERS Concerted Action and the development of new competitive projects supported by DG-RTD. Participation in relevant IAEA, OECD, ISTC activities and CEN and/or ISO technical working groups.
To support the Safety Culture Working Group of the HFR including the development of performance indicators and near-miss analysis.]]> JRC's Integration and Enlargement programme; including training workshops and hosting of visitors , provided that extra funds are available.]]> e.g. a report on status and best practices for ageing management programmes in the EU.]]> training and experience exchange by hosting temporary stsaff, detached experts and students; to ensure knowledge preservation for PLIM and effective archiving and dissemination of recent R&D using appropriate ICT platforms (DoMa Nuclear Energy platform, network websites, EC Circa system etc.) and open publication of R&D results. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003000BAF DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 52103 BIETH MICHEL 5 5.2 5.2.1 * Provide a basis for harmonization of European best practice and approaches regarding operational safety of nuclear installations. * Support long-term EU policy needs on operational nuclear safety and security of the existing installations, and optimization of the advanced nuclear energy systems, through exploitation of the JRC competence in research in nuclear safety assessment methods and techniques. * In developing the European Research Area, integrate the research efforts with the on-going efforts implemented by the nuclear utilities and plant designers, through development of suitable networks and collaborating with other EC bodies and International Organizations. * Foster the development of plans for training, mobility, dissemination, knowledge management and development of competitive activities complementary to the objectives of this action.
The specific, overall, objectives of this research action, to be implemented through analyses of current practices, development of new methods and benchmarking, are the following: * In the field of MS&I, develop advanced techniques for integration of maintenance and in-service inspection (ISI) programs into broader approaches to plant asset and safety management. The action will address: *Maintenance related issues, built on the SENUF experience, in relation to operational performance indicators, reliability centred methods, and operational plant life management *Effectiveness and efficiency of ISI programmes and strategies, specifically inspection qualification and Risk-informed ISI by investigations into all RI-ISI relevant aspects influencing the components probability of failure and consequence of failure; evaluation and estimation of NDT systems reliability through the qualification process, benchmarks and quantitative modelling; experimental studies and development of non-destructive testing (NDT) methods for selected safety significant components. *In the field of fire safety, identify the challenges posed by large fire scenarios on plant safety, where conventional assessment techniques are not applicable, and develop safety strategies for a safe plant shutdown. The R&D will also address deterministic and probabilistic safety assessment of SSC capacity to withstand large fires ignited at the site by both internal and external sources. *In the field of organizational issues, address the following: new organizational models optimally integrating operating cost optimization, safety and asset management, safety culture issues, recovery of the operational experience feedback, safety performance indicators, knowledge management issues, effective control of external suppliers, control of organisational changes, and man-machine interface issues, to the extent needed in order to develop models and techniques for state-of-the-art safe plant management. This last objective is in strict connection with the two precedent objectives and aims at the development of appropriate organizational models which optimize operational costs and reduce the effects of human factors, still very significant in the operational records and feedback analysis.
The action addresses the operational programs in place at the existing nuclear installations, as well as for advanced reactors, of both Western and Eastern European designs. ]]> 1.1 Maintenance and Surveillance
1.1.1 Maintenance effectiveness indicators and risk monitors
To develop a set of indicators to be validated on case studies in at least three plants. The Maintenance indicators will be of both deterministic and probabilistic nature. The year 2007 will be dedicated to the definition of the reference set of indicators, also as a follow-up of the activities carried out by the SENUF network in 2006. The three candidate plants will be selected and the indicators installed after agreement with relevant managers. ]]> To compare existing practice and to develop optimal organisational models able to support optimised MS&I programs. The task will also develop proposals for the optimisation of the interfaces among the different working groups, the software to be used and the integration of the relevant data bases. The year 2007 will be dedicated to the identification of the current practice and of the attributes of the new, more refined organisational models. ]]> To define suitable mechanisms and support tools for the operational feedback in maintenance based on optimised reporting of the evidences and events. The year 2007will be dedicated to the analysis of the events triggered by maintenance actions with the help of international event databases (IRS, INPO, etc.). ]]> To define procedures and methods for the evaluation of the component reliability, grouped in commodity groups, in a framework of long term plant operation. The year 2007 will be dedicated to the analysis of the reliability evaluation issues in the framework of the maintenance optimisation methods, also in a plant long term operation perspective ]]> To identify the technical attributes of the maintenance programs in the family of the RCM methods and to show a comparison of their application on three case studies on selected systems. The year 2007will be dedicated to the comparative analysis and the selection of the systems for the case studies ]]> To develop methodologies for the control of the plant configuration management, based on the use of risk monitors and newly available techniques of probabilistic operational assessment. The year 2007will be dedicated to the analysis of the available techniques. ]]> To extend the SENUF network participation to other stakeholders, such as consulting companies and regulatory bodies, and to manage the annual steering committee meeting ]]> 1.2.1 Non destructive techniques
Development and implementation of robust experimental techniques to measure attenuation & anisotropy (input for mathematical models) in nuclear components, and development of knowledge of phased array technology. ]]> Contribute to further improvement of the harmonized NDT Qualification process in Europe. Review and publication of harmonized NDT qualification principles and guidelines (EQMD, RP2, RP3 and an RP on personnel qualification). The purpose is to update them to be in line with current practice and to assure consistency between various ENIQ guidelines. Development and publication of a guide on qualification of NDT operators. In cooperation with ENIQ partners. ]]> Contribute to the development of detailed harmonised European guidelines in support of implementation of risk-informed ISI in Europe, in cooperation with the ENIQ partners. ]]> Management and coordination of networks, partners and competitive projects/activities, contacts and support to TREN, IAEA, NEA etc. In particular, support will be provided in the organisation of project meetings (RISMET) and network meetings (ENIQ SC, TGQ, TGR), and Workshops (RISMET, Bayesian). Some effort will be dedicated to the Network management. A significant contribution will be provided to the IAEA TECDOC on RI-ISI ]]> Selection of papers, establishment of conference programme, co-organisation of conference, session chairmanship and presentations of several scientific paper.]]> Publication of results as EUR reports and in scientific journals, dissemination through web pages, development and maintenance of project and network (ENIQ) home pages ]]> 2.1 Equipment qualification procedures for harsh environment (severe accidents and large fires)
To identify the fire related parameters associated to the design basis scenarios for accidental and malevolent events. To identify the SSCs where fire vulnerabilities are important for the overall safety evaluation of the plants. Detailed analysis of the potential scenarios at the component level induced by fire. Comparison of available qualification procedure for fire relevant effects. Development of qualification procedures for the components and equipment where no data and procedures are available. The year 2007 will cover the analysis of the scenarios and the relevant practice for component qualification. ]]> 3.1 To carry out a survey of the European practice and regulatory requirements in the fields of decision making in life management. Specific topics include: safety culture, uncertainty management, formal expert judgement applied to structural integrity, human factors, safety performance indicators, and operating procedures. To develop relevant guidelines for some key operation documents and procedures (SAR, OLC - Operating Limits and Conditions-, accident management procedures, SAMG, emergency planning). The year 2007 will be dedicated to the collection of the current practice. ]]> To establish mutually fruitful cooperation and interfaces between the NULIFE Network of excellence and the networks ENIQ and SENUF ]]> Participation to operational safety review mission (OSART) and design review missions in the scope of the SONIS action. Participation to the IAEA Coordinated Research Program (CRP) on “ Safety Aspects of Long Term Operation (SALTO)”. ]]> Support to DG TREN, for various tasks required in the frame of an AA: WPNS, WENRA, CNS, IAEA, OECD/NEA representation, experts for the DG-TREN related committees and groups, support projects on harmonisation of codes and standards systems. ]]> Development and implementation of activities to support JRCs integration and enlargement programme provided that extra funds are available. Two Workshops will be organised on “Reliable and efficient ISI” and “Experience in maintenance optimisation in the PECO countries” respectively. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003000BCC DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 52104 RANGUELOVA VESSELINA 5 5.2 5.2.1 PROJECTS0000000003000BE7 DELEGLISE MARIE-AGNES 20/09/2006 52302 FUETTERER MICHAEL 5 5.2 5.2.3

1. Qualification of various reactor fuels through fuel irradiations and database management
2. Qualification of materials for innovative reactors through material tests
3. Evaluation of safety performance, waste burning capabilities, and feasibility of innovative nuclear reactors
4. Contributions to improving European and International Collaboration

]]> Qualification of various reactor fuels through fuel irradiations and database management:
Testing of the integrity and fission gas release of HTR fuel under irradiation at high temperature and high burn-up. This part of the work program has significant synergies with the FP6 project RAPHAEL-IP. It is followed up by HTR-TN and was proposed as Euratom input to the GIF VHTR project “Fuel and Fuel Cycle”.

1. Follow-up, monitoring and reporting of the HFR-EU1 irradiation;
2. Preparation of HFR-PBMRF1 irradiation;
3. Negotiations with potential customer on HTR fuel compact irradiation;
4. Maintenance and upgrade of the existing HTR fuel database.
5. An irradiation of inert matrix fuel (uranium-free CerMet or CerCer fuel) for the incineration of Americium will be further prepared ("HELIOS") and started by the end of 2007.

]]> Qualification of materials for innovative reactors through material tests:
Out-of-pile tests with focus on key components (high temperature rotary machines, heat exchangers and components for process heat applications) to assess feasibility of design options, provide feedback to designers and input to design codes.

VHTR relevant:
Fatigue, fracture mechanics and non-isothermal creep under thermal transients in the temperature window 600 - 950 C.
1. Effect of carburization/de-carburization in direct power conversion cycles (He + impurities in the primary circuit), 2006 work to be completed;
2. Effect of nitriding in indirect power conversion cycles (N2 + 20% He in the secondary circuit).
   
3. Contribution to the minimization of carbonaceous waste from gas-cooled reactors through feasibility study on fragmentation, decontamination, re-fabrication and mechanical testing of graphite; Follow-up of patent on the fragmentation of VHTR fuel particles and graphite awarded in 2006, negotiations with potential licensees.

   Medium temperature gas-cooled reactor relevant

4. Review compatibility of CO2 coolant including impurities and radiolysis with moderator/reflector graphite and fuel pebbles. If required, define and perform suitable corrosion test.

   SCWR relevant:

5. Use rig built in 2006 to test suitability of in-core (Eurofer-97) and PCU (Ni-base) materials in representative SCWR temperature/pressure/chemistry.

   Process Heat Application relevant:

6. Thermo-chemical H2 production (e.g. SI process) involves corrosive chemicals (H2SO4, iodine compounds) at high temperature and pressure. Literature review, if required screening of materials (e.g. Cr-base alloys) for chemical reactors and for heat exchangers.
7. Literature review on hydrogen/tritium permeability of materials used in the HI dissociation process for thermo-chemical H2 production. Investigate need for new permeability measurements to determine tritium contamination of H2 production and backflow of H2 into primary He circuit.

]]> Evaluation of safety performance and feasibility of innovative nuclear reactors:
Analytical desktop work to compare safety, feasibility and performance of innovative reactors.

Fast reactor relevant:

1. Pursue neutronics and thermal/thermal-hydraulic safety analyses on SFR, LFR and GFR to compare their safety performance and to provide feedback to designers.
2. Maximize waste burning, either in the whole core or in specific blankets, and breeding in fast reactors.
3. Investigate the feasibility and potential impact of fission product incineration (Tc, I). Assess the effect of Cs and Sr extration from nuclear waste in view of reducing space requirements in repositories.
4. Assess the Th fuel cycle in fast reactors.

   VHTR relevant:

5. Provide a conceptual design of a medium temperature GCR for co-generation of heat and electricity. Investigate options for reactor and power conversion unit to maximize efficiency, safety, flexibility etc. without pushing the requirements beyond limits that are feasible today.

]]> Contributions to improving European and International Collaboration:

1. Participation in selected international initiatives such as GIF or INPRO projects and in their coordination bodies to ensure balanced exchange of information between participating parties.
2. Management of HTR-TN (EU High Temperature Reactor Technology Network) integrating EU and international activities in the field. Coordinate network activities: seminars, workshops, bi-annual HTR conference series, preparation of proposals for indirect projects.
3. Participation in FP6/FP7 indirect actions including SCA “Sustainable Nuclear Fission Technology Platform” (SNF-TP), participation in project committees related to SAFETY-INNO (e.g. RAPHAEL, ELSY, GCFR, ExtreMat); cooperate with SNF-TP to ensure that JRC results obtain correct impact.

]]> PROJECTS0000000003000F16 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 22/09/2006 14002 BOGDANOWICZ MARC 1 1.4
(i) research to support the completion of a Single European Information Space in a global competitive dimension;

(ii) research to support the competitiveness of the European R&D system in Information Society Technologies as part of the European knowledge society

To supports the formulation of EU policies with regard to a competitive and innovative Information Society the action focuses on the integrated analysis of key factors in the development, access and use of Information Society Technologies.

Since 2006, it analyses in particular the two following major research questions:

A. What is the future nature and competitiveness of the European ICT sector and its R&D dynamics (expenditures, processes, performance, etc.) and their assessment at a global scale?

B. What is the present and future nature of ICT-related innovation and how it ensures European growth and competitiveness, in particular at regional level, and what is the role of ICT in those dynamics at EU as well as at a global level

From such analysis, the action assesses the impact of the Information Society on European growth and competitiveness in particular at regional level. It pays also special attention to the Information Society developments in the eastern European Member States.

For 2007, the work of IS and Growth will be structured around two groups of studies:

A. The ICT industry competitiveness: IS and Growth will further explore and assess the nature and competitiveness of the European ICT sector R&D. To fulfil such aim, IS and Growth will pursue its pluri-annual survey of R&D investment and dynamics in the ICT sector (REDICT). It will also aim at interpreting the changing dynamics of ICT R&D in a global world by approaching several related questions such as that of embedded systems, WEB 2.0 industrial position, public expenditures, outsourcing of R&D, internationalisation of ICT activities, etc.

B. Innovation and growth at regional level in a global economy: IS and Growth will explore and assess the nature of technological and economic change, focusing in particular on regional development and regional innovation systems analysed in the frame of the global economy. To fulfil such aim, IS and Growth has launched several regional studies inside and outside Europe, to better understand and compare the dynamics at stake.

In terms of managerial aims, the objectives of 2007 encompass the negotiation of supplementary Administrative Agreements:

- with DG INFSO, Dir C2 Strategy for ICT R&D for further exploring the ICT R&D and innovation systems, as well as regional development issues
- with DG INFSO, Dir A4 International Relations for investigating the ICT R&D cooperation with China
- with DG INFSO Dir C, Evaluation and Monitoring: on ex ante assessment of DG INFSO Communications and policies
- with DG ENTR, Dir D4 D/4 Technology for innovation / ICT industries and E-business for studying the future competitiveness of the EU ICT sector.

In terms of policy-support final outputs, IS and Growth will deliver policy- oriented reports and presentations, and participate actively in the working agenda of most of the relevant policy and scientific meetings of the Europe Union:

- DG INFSO High level advisory groups (Information Society Technology Advisory Group, National R&D Director's Group), the annual IST days of DG INFSO, the ex-ante impact assessment of policy documents, etc.
- DG ENTR report on Europe's competitiveness
- Major international conferences: the Krynica Economic Forum, the Microsoft Global Leadership conferences, the European CPR Conference, etc.
- The outputs also come in support to Eastern European Member States and their IS take-up policy formulation. IS and Growth has launched an Observatory of IS Take-Up (OISTU) and a Scientific Steering Committee of High Level Experts from those countries which allows re-interpreting the European data to their specific contexts.

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LIFETECH concentrates on the application area health and medicine, supporting European policy development and formulation in these areas; the work programme is the product of a continuous and close contact with main clients.

1. Consequences, opportunities and challenges of modern biotechnology for Europe
Modern biotechnology as a horizontal technology offers unique opportunities to address many needs and could consequently serve as a major contributor in achieving EU policy goals on economic growth and job creation, public health, environmental protection and sustainable development. However, data on the actual uptake by various sectors and its socio-economic consequences in Europe is still scarce. Against this background, and following a request of the European Parliament, the European Commission has decided to carry out a study on the consequences, opportunities and challenges of modern biotechnology for Europe. This comprehensive study aims at analysing existing and important emerging biotechnology applications in terms of their economic, social and environmental impacts and their contributions to the achievement of major European policy goals. It will provide the primary input to the revision of the Community Strategy on Life Sciences and Biotechnology in light of the new Lisbon Agenda. Final results will be available mid 2007.

SG, providing the secretariat for the Commission’s Biotechnology Steering Committee, chairs the Commission interservice group established for the mid- term review of the Life Sciences and Biotechnology Strategy which comprises the DGs Research, Agriculture and Rural Development, Enterprise and Industry, Health and Consumer Protection, Environment, Trade, and others and to which the JRC provides major input based on the above mentioned study.

2. New bio-medical technologies – public health and internal market policies New bio-medical technologies such as tissue engineering, pharmacogenetics or genetic testing, will change the landscape of medical products and services. They will enable disease prevention and health promotion with large socio- economic implications.

Regarding genetic health care services the next five to ten years will provide a window of opportunity for public health policy to establish appropriate infrastructures, across Europe and globally, that will enable the scientific advances to be effectively and efficiently translated into evidence-based policies and interventions that improve population health. LIFETECH since 2003 aims at supporting DG RTD and DG SANCO in their efforts to ensure the highest quality of genetic testing in the EU and beyond. This also includes extended applications of genetic testing in health care such as pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, pharmacogenetics, and gene screening. In this context biobanks and their optimised use across Europe is an important prerequisite to ensure progress in European biomedical science, including in the development of genetic testing and pharmacogenetics.

Current European legislative framework covers classical medical devices (i.e. those lacking living cells and/or tissues) and pharmaceuticals, but is confronted with new applications and products that might require adaptations to avoid fragmented markets and differences in accessibility and quality standards of these products for European citizens. LIFETECH since 2003 supports DG ENTR with prospective analyses of technologies to identify research trends, industry structure and commercial product pipelines. LIFETECH also provides scientific input to the Impact Assessment process (socio- economic impacts) of relevant legislative initiatives taken by DG ENTR.

]]> PROJECTS0000000003001096 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 25/09/2006 21106 LIBEAU-DULOS MONIQUE 2 2.1 2.1.1
Rural development policy analysis and policy making will be supported particularly through the characterisation and development of a typology of rural areas as a basis for a future modelling of the rural economies. Governance of rural areas will be studied taking into account the increasing societal demands on agriculture and rural areas, e.g. conservation, countryside stewardship (including environmental aspects) and the provision of leisure services. Particular attention will be paid to the specific rural development problems of the New Member States (NMS) and Accession and Candidate Countries (ACC) including the special problems of (semi)subsistence farming etc.

The SUSTAG action will continue its effort to establish a framework contract with a European Network for Agro-economic Policy Support, which will contribute to European research cooperation and enhance the dialogue of agricultural economists and policy analysts (including related research in DG JRC) with policy makers, and thus it will facilitate the implementation of the JRC/IPTS mission. It is supposed that the network will cover the needs of AGRITRADE action too.

The following research lines are considered within the SUSTAG action:

1. Sustainable agriculture in enlarged Europe.
The activities aim at supporting DG AGRI in assessing the impact of the CAP reform on (economic) sustainability at farm level, including distribution effects, structural development and the implications for farmers’ investment strategies. The importance of (semi-) subsistence farms in the NMS will be studied in the context of enlargement and gradual adoption of reforms. A spatial approach will be adopted in order to understand how key drivers take effect and farming systems function and develop in a variable regional context throughout Europe. In this respect, sustainability goals refer to regional specificities and the task is to provide a good assessment of how the EU policy/ policy framework contributes to meeting this goals.

2. Enhancing value added of farm products
This project line provides DG AGRI with policy and economic analysis of institutions and policies aimed at increasing value added by specific intangible attributes of farm products like organic products, high quality products, specific origin products). The particular attention is given to the food quality schemes (FQAS) with emphasis on NMS and ACC and organic livestock production. The research concerns all levels of the food supply chain, but it is targeted to the farm level, in order to understand what is the potential of FQAS for increasing the value added of farm products, making the farm work as qualified as in the other sectors and thus for contributing to rural development. At the same time the constraints (farmers' knowledge, institutional framework, market potential, etc.) will be investigated in order to identify the need for policy intervention.

3. Rural Development.
Capacity building in rural/agro-economic analysis The rural development line goes beyond the sector approach of the above two lines emphasising the territorial perspective in the policy assessment. A strategy for dealing with the challenges resulting from such a broadening of the scope was developed in the work programme 2006. There are three themes which SUSTAG would like to engage in the future: i) Typology of rural areas and indicators of sustainable rural development in the enlarged EU; ii) Modelling of rural economies and assessment of policy impacts; iii) Institutions and governance of rural development. All three are already addressed in the 2007 work programme: The main focus will be on developing methodology and providing EU-wide typology of rural areas which ultimate objective is to provide a base for rural development foresight and spatial impact assessment of (rural) policies. Gradually, quantitative impact assessment tools/socio-economic models will start to be developed. The third theme will be opened by an exploratory research; It will aim at investigating and comparing various approaches to delivering rural development policies to actors, their implementation, monitoring and evaluation. To address the links between agriculture and rural development a concept of multifunctional agriculture will be adopted in both streams of SUSTAG

4. Framework contract for Agro-economic Policy Support
The SUSTAG action plans the establishment of a framework contract with a European Network for Agro-economic Policy Support (ENAPS), which would constitute a network of leading national counterparts of the JRC/IPTS throughout Europe in the area of agricultural economics. The aim would be to contribute to European research cooperation and to facilitate the implementation of the JRC/IPTS mission.

Within this framework, the SUSTAG action will initiate a regular dialogue with research institutions in agricultural economics (including related research in DG JRC) and policy makers. This forum will enhance communication between agricultural research and policy, to better tailor research to political needs.

]]> PROJECTS00000000030010B1 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 25/09/2006 21105 M'BAREK ROBERT 2 2.1 2.1.1
The AGRITRADE action has the following research lines:

1 Agricultural commodity markets in Europe
This project line will support DG AGRI with projections and policy impact analysis for the main European agricultural commodities in terms of market development, using the agricultural sector model AGMEMOD. The incorporation of non-food usage of agricultural commodities especially for bio-energy in agricultural sector models and at a later stage in a Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model will be investigated.

2 Model-based analysis of Common Agricultural Policy implications
This project line will support DG AGRI with simulations of different agricultural policy scenarios for EU. With this purpose, the CAPSIM model has been transferred from DG ESTAT to JRC/IPTS. Additionally, JRC/IPTS will actively collaborate with DG AGRI in the preparation of the yearly baseline update by taking the lead on the construction of the CAPRI model baseline. In this project line, the four in-house economic models for the analysis of the agricultural sector (AGMEMOD, CAPSIM, CAPRI and CGE-food industry) will be employed and compared in their strengths and weaknesses. The aim is to synthesise their results for an improved ex-ante agricultural policy analysis.

3 International agri-food trade
This project line will focus on international trade with agri-food commodities. Its relevance is supported by the dynamic development of agricultural markets due to multi- and regional trade agreements. It should provide Commission Services with policy and economic analyses. Commission Services will be supported in the definition of EU policy options to face the consequences of regional trade agreements - e.g. among the American or Asian countries - on EU markets, in terms of trade, competitiveness and welfare effects, based on a general equilibrium approach. Additionally it is intended to investigate the economic integration of Southern Mediterranean countries with the help of a recently developed food industry CGE model.

4 Improving data quality and availability
This project line will support DG AGRI and other Commission Services to improve the quality and availability of data on agricultural commodities. With this purpose, data consistency will be ensured through a data harmonisation study.

Moreover, in line with the objective of widening the scope of economic analysis, a project focusing on the construction of disaggregated agricultural SAMs at EU Member States level will be designed.

Within these activities, the action will further strengthen networking with the research community and international organisations. It will co-organise the World Market Outlook Conference as well as submit a proposal to the Board of the European Association of Agricultural Economists (EAAE) to organise a conference agricultural policy analysis tools.

]]> PROJECTS0000000003001265 ORTEGA GONZALEZ MARIA DANAE 25/09/2006 21104 LANGRELL STEPHEN 2 2.1 2.1.1
During 2006 several Member States developed and presented technical measures for ensuring Coexistence between GM and non-GM crops. In March the European Commission and the Austrian Presidency co-organised a conference on the political aspects of Coexistence in Europe. In April the Council, considering the conference conclusions, requested the Commission, among other things, to strengthen research on coexistence and to make existing research results available to Member States. Already in 2005 the JRC co-organised with INRA (France) the "Second International Conference on Coexistence between GM and non-GM agricultural supply chains” (GMCC-05), with the attendance of the Commissioner for Agriculture and over 300 scientists/regulators.

The JRC will continue its research activities in this area in close collaboration with academia in Europe. We plan to organise the next major conference, GMCC-07 in Seville in November 2007. The conference will address the international scientific community, competent authorities particularly in Member States and Commission relevant services. The scope will be global, since it is essential to understand what other countries are doing in this area since at the end it will affect the adventitious presence of GMOs in imported goods.

The Council conclusions of April 2006 also invite the Commission to develop guidelines for crop-specific coexistence measures. Discussions are underway with DG Agriculture on how to implement this mandate. The creation of technical working groups to prepare such crop-specific guidelines, managed by a "Bureau" located at IPTS, is one of the options being explored. AGRITECH will continue to provide the necessary input during 2007 for this process.

For the moment Europe is the only world region with a regulatory framework on coexistence at the farm level. We shall start a new research activity to monitor the situation in the world areas and identify trends and possible impacts of the introduction of coexistence regimes in other areas.

AGRITECH also carries out research on the economic impact at farm level as well as at aggregated level of the possible larger adoption of GM crops by European farmers. The research is performed within the SIGMEA project funded by FP6. During 2006 we have produced the first empirical analysis of the economic impacts of a GM crop adopted in Europe (Bt Maize). The results will be disseminated in 2007. During 2007 SIGMEA will concentrate on studying the possible economic impacts of adoption of GM crops widely cultivated elsewhere but not yet used by EU farmers. The crops selected will be herbicide-tolerant oilseed rape and herbicide-tolerant/insect resistant maize.

Biotechnology, food production and food/health interface products

This is an area of support to DG SANCO-E with prospective studies on emerging biotechnologies and derived food or food/health products. These studies provide scientific background information and technical support for the analysis of the suitability of current regulatory framework when confronted with identified innovations. Activities in 2006 in this field have focused on a prospective study on animal biotechnology (cloning and genetic modification). The results from the study will be disseminated to relevant services in the form of a report and to the scientific community in the form of an article to be prepared for a peer-reviewed journal.

Work also started in 2006 on the commercial situation and regulatory challenges of "Molecular Pharming crops" world-wide, with the organisation of a workshop in the subject. This area will be further developed by a prospective study will be launched in 2007.

Research on the current and future developments of functional foods in the EU was performed during the past years and during 2007 the results will be compiled and transmitted to DG SANCO, who is in charge of legislative proposals dealing with health claims in foodstuffs.

The action also provides support to DG FISH on issues relevant to new technologies. Work in 2006 consisted of two main activities: ad-hoc support on the preparation of the Maritime Policy Green Paper in the area of Marine Biotechnology and a prospective study of emerging aquaculture systems in the EU. New research will start under the framework of competitive action AQUAMAX funded by FP6. The objective of AQUAMAX is to develop novel feeds for the sustainable production of farmed fish that are optimized for human health. Our work will consist of a prospective socio-economic analysis, assessing the potential impacts and implications of the uptake of the new feeds by industry.

During 2007 the action will finalise its contribution to the FP6-funded Specific Support Action ASSRBCVUL, dealing with the vulnerabilities of European societies to radiological, biological and chemical terrorism, including the food chain.

]]> PROJECTS00000000030010E7 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 25/09/2006 24005 SORIA RAMIREZ ANTONIO 2 2.4
The aim of the action goes beyond the mere elaboration of energy projections and GHG emission pathways. It targets also at delivering multi-sectoral economic analyses on the impact of achieving specific GHG emission reduction targets implemented according to a variety of policy instruments (in the EU, as well as at global level).

The tasks of this action include:

• Analyze the sectoral and geographical trends in anthropogenic GHG emissions and development of future scenarios with the appropriate modeling tools.

• Analyze the impact of technology progress and accelerated technology substitution in curbing GHG emissions and the associated emission reduction costs.

• Analyze the different implementation schemes of economic instruments (flexible mechanisms, domestic policies and measures, etc).

• Analyze the interaction of GHG reduction policies with other environmental regulations promoted at EU-level (IPPC directive, etc).

• Incorporate elements concerning the economics of GHG sinks to the analytical tools addressing the search for the cost-efficient solution to fulfil specific targets.

The strategic objectives of the Sub-agenda are:

1. To support t DG ENV C in issues related to the international climate change abatement policies. This entails the development of world emission scenarios under different global policy setup for EU, Russia, USA, China and other important actors, and estimates of the effectiveness and costs of those policies.

2. To support DG ENV C (and DG TREN) in issues related to the EU regulations aiming at energy and environmental targets in energy intensive sectors (most of them regulated by the Emission Trading Directive). This relates to the analysis of the structure of carbon and GHG emissions in energy-intensive sectors with particular detail on the European trading bubble.

3. To support DG ENV C in the conception and possible implementation of climate change abatement policies within the transportation sector and other dispersed sources of GHGs. Development and exploitation of dedicated sectoral models to address alternative policy options related to sectors: road transportation, air transportation, maritime transportation, residential, agriculture and services.

4. To support DG TREN and DG ENTR in the impact assessment of proposed and on- going sectoral policies in the energy and environmental field (specially the Directives on Biofuels, and Renewable Electricity & Renewable Primary Targets)

5. To contribute, in the framework of the signed agreements, to the European Environmental Agency works with appropriate forecasts on the evolution of global energy markets and the associated emissions.

6. To provide specific support to Member States in the process of scenario design and analysis, with the support of the modelling toolbox available at IPTS.

7. To exploit the modelling capacity on the Computable General Equilibrium technique, and in particular on the world GEM-E3 model. To apply this tool to the above- mentioned policy areas, i.e. carbon mitigation policies, security of energy supply and impact of market-based environmental regulations.

8. To team up with IES partners in order to develop an integrated modelling approach to deal on a holistic way: energy and industrial emissions, emissions/sinks from natural systems, atmospheric impact, damage estimates, and include the techno-economic aspects of carbon (and other GHG) sinks.

]]> PROJECTS00000000030011AF MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 25/09/2006 11401 ROUDIER SERGE 1 1.1 1.1.4
For each of the sectors covered by the Directive, the exchange of information results in the elaboration of a BAT reference documents (BREF). BREFs are to be taken into account (Point 12 of Annex IV to the IPPC Directive) when the competent authorities of Member States determine conditions for IPPC permits. The BREFs inform the relevant decision makers about what may be technically and economically available to industry in order to improve their environmental performance and consequently improve the whole environment. The elaboration of BREFs at EU level is considered to be an efficient exercise because in their absence, each Member State would have to conduct a similar exercise.

The Information Exchange Forum has a crucial role in generally overseeing the information exchange process, recommending the rolling work programme for the elaboration or reviews of BREFs to DG Environment and indicating the degree of support for final draft BREFs to the Commission.

The European IPPC Bureau was established in the JRC/IPTS in 1997. For each BREF document, the European IPPC Bureau leads the work of a dedicated technical working group (TWG) composed of European experts from industry, representatives from Member States authorities, research institutes and non- governmental environmental organisations established for the purpose (a TWG generally consists of between 40 to 100 experts).

The robustness of the European IPPC Bureau derives from its neutrality, process transparency and technical competence to carry out scientific and technical analyses/syntheses and to be a permanent representation to all TWGs, providing stability to the process. The European IPPC Bureau organises the work of the TWG, fosters the exchange of information, makes a scientific and technical analysis of the vast amount of information exchanged, proposes compromise solutions on difficult issues, and elaborates or review the BREFs. A BREF is generally a document of some hundred pages synthesising several thousand pages of information submitted along with other experts’ inputs. The exchange of information on best available techniques is often called the 'Sevilla process'.

The credibity of the 'Sevilla process' not only relies on JRC personnel but also on more than 1200 experts that partipicate in the TWGs from EU Member States, EFTA and Acceding countries, from different services of the EC, industrial NGOs and environmental NGOs.

The procedure used to elaborate or review a BREF includes a few plenary meetings of the TWG, sub-group meetings, visits to installations, and submission of draft BREFs for comments. The comments received (typically between 500 and 2000 comments per draft) are dealt with by the European IPPC Bureau in order to produce another draft. Each comment is assessed by the European IPPC Bureau and the whole TWG is transparently informed on the modifications carried out.

The life span of a TWG and the time required to prepare a final draft BREF can both vary depending on the detail of the subject. It generally requires between two and three years of intensive work (involving technical and economic aspects inherent to the definition of best available techniques) to elaborate a new BREF.

Each final draft BREF is presented by the European IPPC Bureau to DG Environment at an IEF meeting. The BREFs are formally adopted by the Commission. Notices of their adoption are published in the Official Journal of the European Communities.

The expertise of the European IPPC Bureau is also requested in support of other policy areas. An example of this is the Communication from the Commission on the ‘Safe Operation of Mining Activities’ (COM(2000) 664 final). This Communication suggested elaborating a BAT reference document so the European IPPC Bureau elaborated the BAT reference document on the management of tailings and waste-rock in mining activities.

The notion of best available techniques being dynamic by nature due to changes in scientific knowledge and understanding, developments in technology (and cost of technology) and methods of operation, means that BREFs need to be periodically reviewed. BREFs are expected to be reviewed at a pace of four to five per year. The review process started in 2005 with the BREF on Cement and lime.

Currently, there are 33 reference documents covering IPPC sectors addressed by the Directive and one BREF for a non-IPPC sector – i.e. mining activities, and these are:

1. Pulp and paper;
2. Iron and steel;
3. Cement and lime;
4. Industrial cooling systems;
5. Chlor-alkali;
6. Glass;
7. Non-ferrous metals;
8. Ferrous metal processing;
9. Large volume organic chemicals;
10. Mineral oil and gas refineries;
11. Common waste water and waste gas treatment/management in the chemical sector;
12. General principles of monitoring;
13. Textiles;
14. Tanning of hides and skins;
15. Intensive rearing of poultry and pigs;
16. Slaughterhouses and animal by-products;
17. Smitheries and foundries;
18. Management of tailings and waste-rock in mining activities (non- IPPC);
19. Economics and cross-media effects;
20. Large volume inorganic chemicals – ammonia, acids and fertilisers;
21. Large volume inorganic chemicals – solid and others;
22. Waste incineration;
23. Waste treatments;
24. Surface treatment of metals and plastics;
25. Surface treatment using organic solvents;
26. Large combustion plants;
27. Emissions from storage;
28. Food, drink and milk;
29. Organic fine chemicals;
30. Speciality inorganic chemicals;
31. Polymers;
32. Ceramics;
33. Energy efficiency.

DG Environment is the primary internal customer for this action; DG Entreprise has a strong association with the work due to the representation of industry in the process. For certain BREFs, other DGs such as Energy and Transport (DG TREN) and Health and Consumer Protection (DG SANCO) have actively participated in TWGs. The information exchange includes liaison that is relevant to these or other DGs bearing in mind that the final BREFs are subject to Inter Service Consultation (ISC) prior to adoption by the Commission.

In 2005, the Commission started an extensive process to review the IPPC Directive as part of good regulatory governance. There is general agreement that the Directive provides a good framework and that its underlying principles (including the concept of best available techniques) should not be affected by this review. The expertise developed by the European IPPC Bureau on the IPPC Directive and its implementation led DG Environment to ask the European IPPC Bureau to provide input to this review process.

]]> PROJECTS00000000030011D6 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 25/09/2006 13108 SORIA RAMIREZ ANTONIO 1 1.3 1.3.1
The action will pay particular attention to the monitoring of the energy markets in Candidate Countries, as a contribution to the enlargement policy. The tasks of this action include:

• Continuous update of techno-economic information (energy databases, etc.) and upgrade, update, demonstration and maintenance of the models and tools used.
• Production of scenarios (single and alternate) to provide the policy making process with a common context and a way to present concepts and information on energy and transport technologies, in co-operation with the foresight activities of Agenda 1.3.
• Analysis of the relationship between the process of technology adoption and substitution on the one hand and the general regulatory framework in energy markets on the other hand (both related to environmental externalities and to market organization and competition).
• Elaboration of reports on particular technology branches (fuel cells, renewables, hydrogen, large industrial sectors, biofuels, etc) on request.
• Support the prioritization of R&D in the energy field by providing relevant prospective scientific and techno-economic quantitative and qualitative information.
The action already builds a large share of its customer-driven activity on competitive projects financed by DG RTD and DG TREN under the VI RTD Framework Programme. This is the preferred way for these two DGs to foster JRC participation in strategic activities that are key for them, first because this minimizes their administrative burden, second because having the JRC participate in selected, strategic projects of different natures (Integrated Projects -- IP, Specific Support Actions -- SSA, Networks of Excelence -- NoE, etc) provides them with an additional line of control on the deliverables of the project, and helps the integration of Commission priorities into the deliverables of the projects.

The action is integrated with other Actions in IES (13107 REFREE, 13202 TransTech) and IE (13102 ASSETS) in the JRC's Sustainable Energy Technology Reference Information System (SETRIS).

The strategic objectives of the ETTEA action in the forthcoming years include the participation in competitive actions, in most cases upon specific invitation from the main customer service either in DG RTD and/or DG TREN.

This is the currently case for the on-going ETSER project (development of a technological reference for DG RTD as well as provision of dedicated energy RTD-related reports), the DG RTD projection into the hydrogen economy, NEEDS (a reference project addressing the external costs and damages associated to energy conversion and use), and ULCOS (an industrial project estimating the environmental and economic potential evolution of the steelmaking sector).

As exploratory research, the action will also develop the EEEM (Electrical European Energy Model) to analyse the EU single market of electricity. The model is meant to be a tool primarily exploited by DG TREN.

In complement to its main institutional activities, the action is also involved in a series of competitive projects dedicated to the transport sector (main customer DG TREN B and C):

• PREMIA: Techno-economic scenarios of market penetration of alternative motor fuels (biofuels and hydrogen) (finishes 2007)
• TRIAS: Scenarios of energy consumption from the transportation sector, exploiting the ASTRA and POLES models (finishes 2007)
• TRANS-TOOLS: Construction of a European new transport modelling tool for the EC, taking into consideration the shortcomings of available tools. (finishes 2006).
• EVA-TREN: Appraisal methods and impact assessment of large infrastructure projects within the Trans-European Networks. (finishes 2008)
• HOP: Impact of High Oil Price scenarios in the technology and fuel mix in the transportation sector and its overall economic impact in the EU economy.
• iTREN: Elaboration of a baseline projection for the transportation sector in the EU with the support of the models TRANSTOOLS, TREMOVE, POLES and ASTRA.

]]> Exploratory research: To develop the European Electrical Energy Model (EEEM) (multi-annual objective). ]]> PROJECTS00000000030011F1 MATTEUCCI FRANCESCA 25/09/2006 14003 MAGHIROS IOANNIS 1 1.4
Task A. Support to ICT strategy formulation through developing strategic priority setting for the European Creative Content Industry:
IPTS, in collaboration with DG INFSO, aims at contributing to EU and National ICT policy-making by supporting forward looking strategy formulation for the next 3 years. This will be achieved through the application of a forward looking methodology which aims at identifying, as early as possible, technological trends, including their related business and social drivers and their foreseen challenges. It is by integrating all of these findings, including the evolution of ICT applications and services that may lead to 'disruptions', that strategic intelligence may be developed and used in policy-making. Specifically this TEFIS task will be divided into 2 sub-tasks:

(a) 'Observatory' – to establish and animate a network of European Foresight practitioners in the area of Information Society and draw on them to develop and maintain a monitoring activity of trends in ICT-related technologies; and

(b) 'Priority Setting' – to develop and operate a European-wide foresight exercise in order to investigate the potential evolution of technology, innovation and business in the European Creative Content Industry; the aim is to assist in setting appropriate policy targets in order to achieve both enhanced economic growth and wide citizen participation in this area. In order to achieve this, IPTS has requested the support of the ETEPS network. This task will be co-financed through a multi-annual Administrative Arrangement with DG INFSO.

Task B. Support to digital-identity policy formulation: With citizens becoming active participants in the European Knowledge society and thus being able to consume and produce digital content, the market for content needs to become open to innovation and new actors. Digital identity is a vital ingredient of this digital content market and there is a clear need for technically efficient, fail-safe and interoperable solutions. In addition, new challenges for identity, such as the one foreseen by a wider adoption of Ambient Intelligence, may require a regulatory framework for identity as a means of ensuring participation to tomorrow's Digital Life.

As a result, this TEFIS task will be subdivided into 4 sub-tasks that are all interrelated by the essential need of citizens to identify themselves:

(a) the first sub-task will carry out a feasibility study on the organisation of a survey for the younger generation – the generation that grew up with digital devices and in the information age – which will be the leading generation in 2025. Through this survey the likelihood of this generation to accept more risk, but not necessarily less trust will be assessed and the eventual need of a specific identity framework (Digital Identity Charter) will be substantiated. This first sub-task will be co-financed through a multi-annual Administrative Arrangement with DG INFSO;

(b) due to the increasing creation, use and availability of audio-visual content in the digital era, the development and marketing of search engines for locating and retrieving relevant audio-visual information has become more pressing. The second sub-task will study, as part of a consortium and funded by the FP6 coordinating action (CA) named CHORUS, the future socio-economic and legal impacts of audiovisual search engines so as to raise awareness as to policy issues relating to multi-media search engines;

(c) the third sub-task focuses at exploring new human- machine interfaces so as to facilitate access to digital content by citizens. This sub- task will study technological challenges related to SRT (Speech Recognition Technologies – not speaker recognition) so as to aid in achieving improved human-machine interfaces for new application and services which in turn will help raise adoption of innovative e-services and thus ultimately contribute to Digital living. This work will also scientifically contribute to the work on audio-visual search engines (sub-task b) since it will provide information on technologies that could be used for audio searching;

(d) the fourth sub-task aims to enrich IPTS expertise on the ways that identity-related technologies can be used to satisfy current and future needs of individuals as well as to support 'client DG' requests in the identity area through providing further support to DG JRC (IPSC) in the area of Biometrics large-scale deployment, further supporting DG INFSO on the preparation of the second communication on RFID applications and by participating to the implementation of the FP6 funded NoE FIDIS work plan.

]]> PROJECTS000000000300BD84 HUWAERT CHRISTIAN 20/10/2006 12001 BARRY GERALDINE 1 1.2 br> - Filing of patents, copyrights and trademarks - Ensuring that the various mandatory deadlines and fees are duly respected/paid - -legal and technical assistance in dealing with litigation and prelitigation files in the IPR field - legal and technical assistance in negotiating licence agreements. The second objective is to promote knowledge transfer from the JRC to industry, national authorities and the wider scientific community through the most appropriate means. It will include the exploitation of commercially promising JRC technologies through licensing and collaborative R&D with industry partners. The action will also foster a culture of innovation within the JRC through measures such as developing awareness of the importance of intellectual property and support for entrerpreneurship. Specific activities will encompass: - marketing of results through establishing and reinforcing contacts with industry and other partners - liaison between JRC research staff and industry - negotiation and drafting of exploitation agreements (letters of intent, option, licences) - stimulation of innovation through entrepreneurship training & other internal measures - provision of a range of courses on IP issues to JRC staff. ]]> Provision of support to Commission services on IP issues
- On going evaluation of trademarks, patents and software submitted
- filing & follow-up of trademarks
-legal and technical assistance in dealing with litigation and prelitigation files in the IPR field
- legal and technical assistance in negotiating licence agreements, mainly in the copyright area (author's rights, databases)
- advice on IP aspects of international agreements including assistance in negotiating such agreements
- support to DG Research on IP issues related to the ISTC/STCU programmes
- targeted IPR seminars on request
]]> Provision of IP support to JRC
- identification and support to new inventors
- develop awareness of IP issues within JRC through regular seminars. ]]> Management of the patent portfolio
- filing of patents, trademarks and copyright
- preparation and execution of associated Commission decisions
- ensuring relevant deadlines and fees are duly respected
]]> Organisation of call for tender to ensure on-going provision of support services
- preparation of tender specifications
- launch of call and selection of service provider
]]> Promote the exploitation of commercially promising JRC technologies through licensing and collaborative R&D with industry participation
- To systematically increase the financial value of the JRC IPR portfolio by focusing licensing efforts on the areas of interest (sensor technologies, EMM, sealing technologies)
- To maintain the existing portfolio of licenses including the auditing of revenue, the negotiation of necessary amendments and/or the re-negotiation of existing agreements
]]> To foster entrepreneurship and spin-off creation among JRC researchers
- organisation of entrepreneurship training & occasional seminars/guest lectures
- preparation of call for tender for entrepreneurship training in 2008
- organisation of internal Innovation Project Competition, selection and follow-up of projects. ]]> PROJECTS000000000300395C BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 51102 RONDINELLA VINCENZO 5 5.1 5.1.1 PROJECTS0000000003003979 BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 51201 MALMBECK RIKARD 5 5.1 5.1.2 20%mol) or other minor actinides]]> PROJECTS0000000003003994 BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 51301 WASTIN FRANCK 5 5.1 5.1.3 PROJECTS00000000030039AF BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 51502 APOSTOLIDIS CHRISTOS 5 5.1 5.1.5 PROJECTS00000000030039CA BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 51602 BETTI MARIA 5 5.1 5.1.6 PROJECTS00000000030039E5 BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 51701 FERNANDEZ CARRETERO ASUNCION 5 5.1 5.1.7 PROJECTS0000000003003A00 BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 52201 WALKER CLIVE 5 5.2 5.2.2 PROJECTS0000000003003A1B BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 52301 SOMERS JOSEPH 5 5.2 5.2.3 PROJECTS0000000003003A36 BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 53103 MAYER KLAUS 5 5.3 5.3.1 PROJECTS0000000003003A59 BABELOT JEAN-FRANCOIS 04/10/2006 53108 HEDBERG MAGNUS 5 5.3 5.3.1 PROJECTS00000000030054A8 NAUGHTON AISLING 10/10/2006 21203 SCHRIMPF WOLFRAM 2 2.1 2.1.2 Enlargement and Integration ]]> PROJECTS00000000030056EC NAUGHTON AISLING 10/10/2006 32001 DE ROO ARIE 3 3.2 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS00000000030079E9 NICHOLSON NICHOLAS 16/10/2006 23002 SARIGIANNIS DIMOSTHENIS 2 2.3 ]]> PROJECTS0000000003005E71 NAUGHTON AISLING 11/10/2006 42003 ACHARD FREDERIC 4 4.2 PROJECTS00000000030060A5 NAUGHTON AISLING 11/10/2006 22004 MONTANARELLA LUCA 2 2.2 Support to Enlargement and Integration within the frame of ESDAC ]]> Exploratory research ]]> PROJECTS00000000030064C5 NAUGHTON AISLING 12/10/2006 11602 SMITS PAUL 1 1.1 1.1.6 [Exploratory Research]]]> PROJECTS00000000030065D4 NAUGHTON AISLING 12/10/2006 11601 PEEDELL STEPHEN 1 1.1 1.1.6 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS00000000030068AB NAUGHTON AISLING 13/10/2006 42001 MAYAUX PHILIPPE 4 4.2 [Exploratory Research]]]> PROJECTS0000000003006BE7 NICHOLSON NICHOLAS 13/10/2006 15006 WHELAN MAURICE 1 1.5 PROJECTS0000000003006D5C NICHOLSON NICHOLAS 13/10/2006 15001 JANUSCH ROI ANNETT 1 1.5 PROJECTS0000000003006E2A TANNER BELINDA 16/10/2006 15007 GIBSON PETER 1 1.5
In the area of Nuclear Medicine, collaborative work with several research groups including the Nuclear Chemistry Unit of ITU will focus on production of novel therapeutic isotopes and diagnostic radiotracers. A dedicated beamline will be set up for the ITU work, allowing safe and regular production of alpha- emitters in quantities large enough for labelling and pre-clinical or clinical studies. Another beamline will be dedicated to the activation of nanoparticles for cancer brachytherapy using a novel neutron based method, adiabatic resonance crossing (ARC). In addition, work on cyclotron methods for production of novel medical isotopes will continue in collaboration with local research institutions.

In the area of nanotoxicology and exposure, the work will be closely linked to ECVAM’s radiotracer work on toxicity mechanisms of chemicals and nanoparticles with a direct cyclotron-beam nanoparticle activation facility being developed. Together with the ARC target, this will allow ECVAM to activate most of the nanoparticles of interest for their studies on nanoparticle toxicity mechanisms. To complement this work, the advanced testing facilities at the Cyclotron will be used to study exposure to chemicals or particles via wear or degradation of biomaterials using ultra-sensitive thin later activation methods. Studies of nanoparticle release under wear or corrosive conditions from advanced consumer materials that incorporate nanoparticles will also be possible using the same activation methods. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003006EF5 NAUGHTON AISLING 16/10/2006 22003 SAN-MIGUEL-AYANZ JESUS 2 2.2 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS0000000003007114 NAUGHTON AISLING 16/10/2006 13106 DUNLOP EWAN 1 1.3 1.3.1 [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS000000000300723B NAUGHTON AISLING 16/10/2006 13203 BOROWIAK ANNETTE 1 1.3 1.3.2 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS0000000003007403 TANNER BELINDA 16/10/2006 15008 ROSSI FRANCOIS 1 1.5
Nanotoxicology: The activities will focus on contributions to the development, validation and harmonisation of testing methods for the evaluation nanoparticles toxicity. In collaboration with ECVAM (European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods), an integrated approach combining cell-based in vitro assays with specific radiochemical and physicochemical facilities of the IHCP will be applied. Manufactured nanomaterials (mNPs) will be characterised chemically and physically. They will then be tested for their basal cytotoxicity, carcinogenic potential, genotoxicity, chronic toxicity, development toxicity, reproductive and immunotoxicity using the corresponding in vitro systems. In addition the mNPs uptake and intracellular distribution will be studied using radio labelled nanoparticles. In collaboration with Action 11501, mechanisms of toxicity will be modelled and analysed to evaluate to potential toxicity of untested nanomaterials.

Sensors and detection systems will be developed for the identification and detection of chemical and biological toxic compounds. Two lines of detection principles, chemical and immunosensors will use innovative approaches based on nanotechnology in order to increase their selectivity and sensitivity. The sensors will be tested, adapted or developed to suit the needs and requests of DGs ENV, ENT and JLS. Toxicity sensors, based on genetically modified bacteria will be developed and adapted to environment monitoring and their application to the security area. The horizontal activity in detection will be based on photonics, microcantilever and plasma resonance techniques, as well as near field probe microscopy.

Cell and molecular Imaging systems will be developed in support to validation of alternative methods, in order to get a better insight in the mechanisms underlying different aspects of nanotoxicology. The photonics and near field probe techniques offer new opportunities to get a very precise insight of cell functions and their modification during cell toxicity assays. Use of tagged or activated nanoparticles, as well as microsystems will be developed and used for in situ follow up of cell metabolism.

Bio/non bio interfaces is the horizontal activity underlying all the work to be done within the Action. It will focus on the protein and cell surface interaction (in particular, stem cells), in order to develop, in collaboration with ECVAM, new tools and systems needed for biosensing devices and in vitro testing methods. The activity will involve surface functionalisation, controlled immobilisation of specific protein systems and their evaluation for in vitro tests (stem cell maintenance and differentiation, cell on chip application etc). ]]> PROJECTS00000000030074AC NAUGHTON AISLING 16/10/2006 24003 VAN AARDENNE JOHN 2 2.4 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> PROJECTS00000000030076AB NAUGHTON AISLING 16/10/2006 13107 JAEGER-WALDAU ARNULF 1 1.3 1.3.1 Enlargement and Integration: To assess renewable energy resources and monitor the starting renewable energies implementation as well as renewable energy legislation fulfilment in the New Member States and Candidate Countries, analysing their knowledge base and specific technical and non-technical barriers. ]]> Enlargement and Integration: To assess saving potentials in electricity end-use in the New Member States and Candidate countries, analysing their knowledge base and specific technical and non-technical barriers ]]> PROJECTS0000000003007762 TANNER BELINDA 16/10/2006 23004 GUILLOU CLAUDE 2 2.3
The action will involve two main topics: 1) Consumer Protection 2) Human Health.

Concerning the first topic “Consumer Protection”, the following tasks will be carried out:

BEVABS
Communication COM(93) 360 from the Commission to the Council and the European Parliament established the European Office for Wine, Alcohol and Spirit Drinks (BEVABS) at the JRC to combat major fraud in the wine, alcohol and spirit drinks area. The JRC plays a crucial role by managing the European Wine Databank on authentic European wines (as foreseen in EC Regulation No 2729/2000) and by co-ordinating the network of official Member States laboratories involved in the Isotopic and NMR determinations required for the databank. As the Reference Laboratory for these measurements, BEVABS has also a specific role for quality control, data validation and arbitration of disputes. Adopted in December 2004, EC Regulation No 2120/2004 establishes the enlargement of the EU Wine Databank to six new wine producing Member States.

Traceability and Antifraud
In the frame of previous BEVABS activities, the JRC has established high degree of competence in modern approaches combining isotopic and NMR fingerprinting techniques as well as management of analytical Databanks. This experience will be applied to the identification of origin and authentication of agricultural products in collaboration with anti-fraud laboratories (e.g., Customs labs) from Member States and Candidate Countries.
The isotopic and NMR methods used for the EU Wine Databank will be used in support of EU policies concerned with the origin of agricultural products such as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) [Regulations (EEC) No 2081/92 and (EEC) No 2082/92]).

Profiling of illicit Drugs
DG JLS has requested scientific support from the JRC within the illicit drugs policy field. This is linked to the activities of the EU Drugs Strategy 2005- 2012 and the EU Drugs Action Plan 2005-2008. Concerning the latter, MAST will provide scientific and technical expertise in the context of the related Council document, (OJEU C168). The tasks undertaken in Action MAST will focus on scientific support to DG JLS and MS forensic laboratories, especially as regards action 20 of the EU Drugs Action Plan (“Reduce the manufacture and supply of synthetic drugs”) and more specifically under point 2 (“Develop a long term solution at EU level for the use of synthetic drug forensic profiling”). The experience developed in previous BEVABS activities on isotopic techniques and European reference databanks is of high interest for progress of profiling of illicit drugs in Europe and other activities of network forensic laboratories. MAST will closely collaborate with European projects and networks aiming at consolidating profiling of illicit drugs in Europe. The modern analytical techniques used in MAST are also very powerful investigation tools for metabolite fingerprinting and identification of biomarkers in various biological matrices (Metabonomics). These facilities will be used for activities in the area of Human Health).

Concerning the second topic “Human Health”, the following tasks will be carried out:

Environment and Health
The development of a coordinated EU approach for human biomonitoring (HBM) is critically dependent upon on-going research efforts, especially in “OMICS” technologies, in order to guarantee a sound scientific basis in a field that is evolving rapidly. MAST will focus on bio-monitoring and exposure studies for the development, testing and implementation of advanced biomarkers/metabonomic approach for assessment of potential interactions of chemical stressors, including the “cocktail effect” (effect of combined exposures), on Human Health. Part of this work will be carried out in collaboration with Action 23002 EXPO- Health (Human Exposure to Environmental Stressors and Health Effects). Other parts of this work will be based on the continuation of already existing collaborations with several hospitals in the frame of HBM through profiling of biofluids related to asthma and cardio-vascular diseases.

Bio-matrices characterisation
MAST will continue the development of experimental protocols using spectroscopic-metabolomic profiling on sample sets prepared on automated platforms. This approach will be applied on cultured cells in collaboration with FP7 15006 InViTech (In vitro testing technologies and assay automation).

Molecular identification
The advanced spectroscopic techniques of MAST will also enable the structural identification of compounds such as unknown metabolites and bio-markers in bio- fluids and in food matrices, in particular for studies related to human diseases or possible negative/positive health effects. These techniques will also be used for the identification of unknown chemical compounds released from various materials and consumer goods (c.f., the work currently in progress in the IHCP on chemicals released by toner of laser printers). ]]> PROJECTS0000000003008C51 TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 15003 KLEIN CHRISTOPH 1 1.5
ECVAM directly supports development and implementation of legislation in the field of chemicals and agrochemicals and adjacent areas with special regard to the use of suitable alternative test methods, e.g. for REACH. It performs its tasks corresponding to Directive 86/609/EEC on the protection of animals used for experimental and other scientific purposes.

ECVAM through its reference laboratory CORRELATE provides the tool for reliability assessment of test methods. CORRELATE executes defined tasks, under quality assurance conditions, in line with set priorities and available resources:

*With a view towards validation and certification of equivalence or suitability, adequacy of results and documentation, CORRELATE evaluates submissions of candidate in vitro test methods with respect to reliability and related criteria. As appropriate, it implements methods in house at ECVAM, evaluates method reliability and determines method performance criteria. This may comprise inter-laboratory studies. *Knowledge and technology transfer and exchange with selected national and international key laboratories. Correlate ensures quality assurance of the ECVAM-validated methods. The criteria for the selection of participating national key laboratories shall be established. *CORRELATE holds a repository of suitable reference substances for alternative testing, and makes it available in direct support to ECVAM’s mission.
Action VALCHEM covers ECVAM’s key area of “Biostatistics and Computational Toxicology” and through it leads the activities developing “Evidence-based Toxicology”.

The action contributes to the EC-funded competitive FP6 Integrated Project OSIRIS, which addresses ITS development. It has established close links with Actions 15002 (VALCOS), 15004 (VALDRUG), 15005 (VALPRO) and 15006 (INVITECH). ]]> PROJECTS0000000003007B83 NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 24004 DOWELL MARK 2 2.4 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS0000000003007C15 TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 11501 WORTH ANDREW 1 1.1 1.1.5
The central theme during 2007 and 2008 will be the development of computational tools and playing a key role in the development of the International QSAR Application Toolbox under the umbrella of the OECD, to make reliable estimation tools freely and transparently available to regulatory authorities, industry and other stakeholders interested in the regulatory assessment of chemicals. This will ensure that both registrants and evaluators of chemical dossiers will have access to the same tools and guidance. ECB will contribute by developing its own tools (collectively referred to as the ECB Decision Support System) and by donating them to the International Toolbox. ECB also expects to play a central role in coordinating the development of the Toolbox and in supporting its future maintenance. Thus, the Toolbox activity is central to many related activities of the CompuTERM Action, including applied research on the development of new estimation methods, research on the regulatory applicability of estimation methods, and training activities. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003007D1E TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 11503 DE BRUIJN JACOBUS 1 1.1 1.1.5
Implementation of REACH The work plan for the activities related to the implementation of REACH concentrates on the Interim Period until 2007 and the Agency start-up phase 2007-2008. Action 11503 focuses in particular on developing guidance and IT- tools for the Agency, industry and the authorities. These activities are carried out in close collaboration with experts from all stakeholders in the implementation of REACH (e.g. Member States, Industry, NGOs). The ECB acts as the technical manager of this work, involving a team of staff from other DGs and supported by specialist contractors. These guidance documents will have the different REACH processes as starting point but cover a wide range of scientific areas such as: development of methods for chemical risk and safety assessment; development of testing methods and intelligent testing strategies; down-stream user requirements and supply-chain communication, classification and labelling, data-sharing; methods for carrying out socio-economic analyses for restrictions on chemicals and priority setting methodologies. The results are widely discussed and disseminated to the stakeholder community in order to obtain their backing.

The action provides substantial support to the preparations for setting up the Chemicals Agency in Helsinki, in particular through providing extensive training of the first group of experts that will move to Helsinki. In addition to the RIP projects the action will provide support to the Commission services during the drafting of the first implementation Regulations and the already foreseen adaptations of some of the Annexes of the legal text.

Classification and labelling (C&L)
The action provides technical and scientific support to the Commission and Member State Authorities concerning the hazard classification and labelling of pesticides, biocides and new and existing chemicals. In addition, the activities concentrate on providing support to the drafting of the new GHS legislation and developing guidance for its implementation.

The ECB work entails preparation, chairing and follow-up of meetings of the Commission Working Group on Classification and Labelling; co-ordination of meetings between EU Member States and industry; and provision of information to other Commission services. This work is focussed on the classification and labelling of substances where the harmonisation gives rise to significant additional risk management.

Harmonisation of Testing Methods The basis for evaluation of the hazardous properties of substances, both for C&L and risk assessments are harmonised testing methods. The ECB coordinates the technical and scientific work needed for the development and introduction of these methods in current and future EU legislation. ]]> 6000 harmonised EU C&L entries]]> PROJECTS0000000003007E43 NICHOLSON NICHOLAS 17/10/2006 23003 KOTZIAS DIMITRIOS 2 2.3 PROJECTS0000000003007EA5 NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 22001 ZALDIVAR COMENGES JOSE' 2 2.2 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS0000000003007FAA TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 11504 SCHILLIGER MUSSET CHRISTEL 1 1.1 1.1.5
Implementation of REACH

The work plan for the activities related to the implementation of REACH concentrates on the Interim Period until 2007 and the Agency start-up phase 2007-2008. Action 11504 focuses in particular on developing IT-related tasks for the Agency, industry and the authorities. These activities are carried out in close collaboration with experts from all stakeholders in the implementation of REACH (e.g. Member States, Industry, NGOs).

REACH-IT
At the heart of the Agency’s operations will be the REACH-IT system. The goal is to have a paperless system whereby chemical companies will register approx. 150,000 substances, and to provide a work flow system for evaluation and authorisation processes, requiring detailed input from the Member Sates and Agency staff. After playing the role of the Technical Manager of the analysis and design of this system in FP6, supported by DG ENTR and DG ENV, the JRC will continue in FP7 to ensure the scientific coordination in the build of the REACH-IT system. This system provides the capability necessary for the Chemicals Agency to undertake its work and provides the necessary links for industry to submit their data and for the Member States and Agency staff to execute their tasks.

IUCLID5
The goal is to develop and implement a database system for the storage and retrieval of detailed hazard information concerning chemical substances. This is known as IUCLID 5 (International Uniform CHemicals Information Database) and will not only serve REACH, but also provide a harmonised data format accepted for use by regulatory authorities and industry in the global chemical community. Since IUCLID 5 will be deployed in advance of the formation of the Agency, JRC will undertake the role of “IUCLID management”, to provide a support service to the operation and development of this tool.

Training
The Action provides support to the preparations for setting up the Chemicals Agency in Helsinki, in particular by providing extensive training for the first group of experts that will move to Helsinki, especially in the area of the application of IUCLID5.

Regulation 2658/57

The Action contributes to the adaptation of Annex 1 of Regulation 2658/87, particularly in Section VI “Products of the chemical or allied industries”. The ECB contributes to the maintenance and update of the European Customs Inventory of Chemical Substances (ECICS database) – one of the information systems that DG TAXUD uses for the identification, taxation and monitoring of traded substances.

Directive 67/548/EEC and Regulation 793/93

Scientific and technical support to current chemicals legislation (mainly Directive 67/548/EEC and Regulation 793/93) is provided by the ECB. Within FP7 this support is structured within the Action 11502 (RefineRISK) of the JRC work programme. However, the continuing informatics aspects of this work are now grouped together with the developments for future systems, to enable an efficient response to both current and developing IT challenges.

Global chemical data management and harmonisation

The JRC undertakes exploratory research, developing (with international partners) a global portal for access to hazard properties of chemicals, including the investigation of advanced web applications and other mechanisms for data sharing. Working with the OECD, the Action takes a leading role in scientific aspects, such as harmonised data structure (including properties of chemicals) and the content of the portal, as well as in technical issues such as how to put databases together world-wide and how to achieve global access free of charge. New harmonised data formats will be developed in the domain of biocides and pesticides to extend the scope of the global portal. Their use in the IUCLID 5 data management system will enhance data exchange possibilities between European authorities and regulatory bodies worldwide.

The JRC will also evaluate the possibility of creating a database on the intrinsic properties of nanoparticles. ]]> PROJECTS0000000003008CDB TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 15004 GRIBALDO LAURA 1 1.5
This Action should support standardisation and validation of in vitro methods for risk prediction and benefit - risk assessment. It will cover ECVAM’s activities in the following Key Areas: Systemic toxicity, Immunotoxicity and Reproductive toxicity.

The action also comprises EC-funded competitive projects such as ReProTect, Predictomics, A-Cute-Tox and PulmoNet.

A-Cute-Tox aims to achieve full replacement for predicting acute systemic toxicity.
ReProTect focus on the development of in vitro test strategies which will be able to predict the hazard of compounds to the mammalian reproductive cycle.
Predictomics (Short–term assays for long-term testing) works to develop in vitro tests to evaluate long-term toxicity in humans.
PulmoNet aims to elaborate and prevalidate endpoints for acute and chronic lung toxicity and pulmonary damage. ]]> PROJECTS000000000300BA88 NAUGHTON AISLING 18/10/2006 11603 HAASTRUP PALLE 1 1.1 1.1.6 PROJECTS000000000300828C TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 15009 MOENS WILLIAM 1 1.5 PROJECTS00000000030082CB NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 51601 DE CORT MARC 5 5.1 5.1.6 [Exploratory Research] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> [Exploratory Research] ]]> [Exploratory Research]]]> PROJECTS00000000030089D9 TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 15002 ZUANG VALERIE 1 1.5 Furthermore, ECVAM conducts research in several areas of toxicology relevant to the safety testing of chemicals of various kinds (including cosmetic ingredients). This action includes 3 key areas related to topical toxicity (skin and eye irritation, phototoxicity, percutaneous absorption, skin corrosion), carcinogenicity and genotoxicity/mutagenicity, and sensitisation (skin and respiratory) respectively. The action also comprises EC-funded competitive integrated projects such as Sens-it-iv which aims to develop in vitro testing strategies for the assessment of skin and respiratory allergens, and Carcinogenomics, which aims to develop and validate toxicogenomics-based in vitro tests for the assessment of carcinogens. In addition, the Action also includes the STREP - COMICS, which aims to develop in vitro comet and cell array assays for fast and efficient genotoxicity testing. Consequently, the overall aim of this action is to provide support to the Cosmetics Directive through the development, validation and promotion of non- animal methods, especially those designed for the testing of chemical substances and cosmetic products. ]]> PROJECTS000000000300B6EC NAUGHTON AISLING 18/10/2006 13105 OSSENBRINK HEINZ 1 1.3 1.3.1 PROJECTS0000000003008E43 NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 24002 SEUFERT GUENTHER 2 2.4 [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS000000000300B1ED NAUGHTON AISLING 18/10/2006 22002 HEISKANEN ANNA-STIINA 2 2.2 [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS0000000003008EF4 TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 15005 HALDER MARIA 1 1.5
Action ValPro covers ECVAM’s activities in the following six Key Areas:
*The key area Biologicals focuses on validation activities and the development of new testing strategies for biologicals (e.g. vaccines, immunosera). *The key area Ecotoxicology aims to reduce, refine and replace testing in fish required for aquatic toxicity and bioaccumulation. *The key area Kinetics is a cross-cutting activity and contributes to all of the toxicological endpoints by providing information on the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion in in vitro systems. *The key area Strategic Developments relates to enabling technologies (e.g. high throughput screening, GLP and GCCP) and their use in developmental and validation activities, thus closely interacting with the other ECVAM Actions. *The key area Food is targeting at methods for safety testing of food. *The key area In Vitro Nanotoxicology assesses the health effects of nanoparticles with in vitro methods
The action contributes to the EC-funded competitive FP6 projects ToxDrop, VitroCellomics, Artemis, DIPNA, ACuteTox (in collaboration with Action ValDrug), INTELTEX and Cellnanotox (in collaboration with Action Nanobiotech). ]]> PROJECTS000000000300AE4E NAUGHTON AISLING 18/10/2006 23001 PART PETER 2 2.3 PROJECTS000000000300AFF8 NAUGHTON AISLING 18/10/2006 21107 TERRES JEAN 2 2.1 2.1.1 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> PROJECTS00000000030093F2 TANNER BELINDA 17/10/2006 11502 MUNN SHARON 1 1.1 1.1.5
Risk assessment
According to EU legislation, selected chemicals placed on the internal market must undergo an in-depth risk assessment to examine the risks posed to humans and the environment. The methodology is described in detail in the Technical Guidance Documents on Risk Assessment for New and Existing Substances and Biocides (the TGD). ECB supports the Member States in reaching, as far as possible, a consensus opinion on the risk assessments presented by a rapporteur Member State to the other authorities of the Member States for agreement. The ECB ensures a harmonised implementation of the methodology across the substances and leads the discussions. The legal follow-up of the outcome of a risk assessment will depend on the legislation under which the assessment is performed.

The objective of this project is to develop a system of reference for integrated chemical risk assessment at the JRC. The project will develop science-based environmental and human health risk assessment methodologies, focusing on quantitative risk assessment via exposure modelling, and intelligent testing strategies, integrating emerging techniques, including grouping and read-across, as well as the assessment of health and safety risks of emerging technologies (such as manufactured nanoparticles). A parallel objective will be to develop a strategy to achieve harmonisation of approaches to risk assessment across EU regulatory frameworks across the different Commission Services and Agencies involved (EFSA, EMEA, ECHA), as well as at international level (OECD/IPCS).

The activities will be carried out in close collaboration with the work of the CompuTERM, SUPCHEM and GLOB-CHEM (other actions of the Unit). The output of the activities will provide direct support to risk assessment of industrial chemicals and biocidal active substances.

Information Exchange on Import and Export of Dangerous Substances
The ECB fulfils the duties of the Commission within the export notification process as laid down in Regulation 304/03 by giving technical and scientific support to its implementation. The ECB maintains and upgrades the European Database on EXport and IMport (EDEXIM) of certain dangerous chemicals ]]> PROJECTS000000000300940D NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 24001 DENTENER FRANCISCUS 2 2.4 [Exploratory Research] ]]> PROJECTS000000000300961E NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 13206 DILARA PANAGIOTA 1 1.3 1.3.2 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> [Exploratory Research] To study the diesel aerosol particle size distribution and deposition within the Vehicle Emissions Labs (VELA) and in new diesel particle traps, in support to the development of new testing cycles, measurement techniques and abatement devices. ]]> PROJECTS000000000300992B NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 13201 PERUJO MATEOS DEL PARQUE ADOLFO 1 1.3 1.3.2 [Enlargement and Integration] To define an integrated approach for a Trans-European Transport Network and to assess the environmental impacts and other implications of different transport modes (short sea shipping, rail and road transport and their combinations) along the extended transport Corridor V (Lisbon-Kiev) ]]> PROJECTS0000000003009CB6 NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 22005 PENNINGTON DAVID 2 2.2 [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> PROJECTS0000000003009FA7 NAUGHTON AISLING 17/10/2006 13202 KRASENBRINK ALOIS 1 1.3 1.3.2 (summary objective) ]]> (summary objective) ]]> (summary objective) ]]> (summary objective) ]]> (summary objective) ]]> (summary objective) [Enlargement and Integration] ]]> (summary objective) [Exploratory Research] ]]>