The problem

The Fifth and Sixth Framework Programmes for Research (FP5 and FP6) bridged a period of exceptionally rapid progress in molecular technology associated with a number of large-scale sequencing projects. These molecular technologies have become routine such that gene mapping and a functional genomics approach to aquaculture research is widespread. However, maximising the benefit derived from these disparate efforts requires a careful integration of project outcomes.

Overview:

AQUAFUNC aims to integrate the outcome of projects funded under FP5 and FP6 to generate a common scientific basis for a functional genomics approach to aquaculture. To enable better exploitation and dissemination of the results generated by these projects, AQUAFUNC will:

• Bring together researchers working with a functional genomics approach to aquaculture to exchange, analyse and discuss results
• Collate and analyse results from earlier projects in joint scientific publications
• Create a webpage presenting functional genomics projects with links and contacts to corresponding institutes
• Evaluate future needs and priorities for integrating results, facilities and resources

Contribution to policy development:

• AQUAFUNC will improve the accessibility to current molecular and genome research and enable policy-makers to make informed decisions in support of aquaculture within the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP)
• It will provide a readily accessible web-based reference site to keep policy-makers abreast of the current distribution of molecular biology and genomics in the field of aquaculture research
• It will assist in ensuring the adoptions of up-to-date methodologies by all those engaged in this field who are contributing to policy development in support of the CFP

Project deliverables

• Publication strategy with role of different WG members – March 2006
• Report summarising scientific and technical content of each project – May 2006
• Websites with a public access and restricted (R&D) access – January 2007
• Prioritised list of future requirements to benefit aquaculture – November 2007
• Final report, newsletter and book manuscript – November 2007

Dissemination

• Newsletter – November 2006, May and November 2007
• Final plan for using and disseminating knowledge – November 2007
• Regular meeting of project participants and scientists active in the field will increase awareness of current research and facilitate collaboration – ongoing
• Single-issue edition of a peer-review scientific journal summarizing and reviewing the current status or R&D in this field – November 2007
• Convene an open workshop at an international trade and science conference 
• Public website – January 2007

Technical information

Project acronym: AQUAFUNC
Project’s official full title: Integrated knowledge on functional genomics in sustainable aquaculture
Research priority: 1.3. Modernisation and sustainability of fisheries, including aquaculture-based production systems
Specific webpage: Details not yet available
Proposal/contract no: 022685
Start date: November 2005
Kick off meeting: February 2006
Completion date: November 2007
European Commission scientific officer: Mário Lopes dos Santos, mario.santos@ec.europa.eu

Coordinator
Dr. Kristina Sundell
Name: Fish Endocrinology Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Zoo-physiology
Abbreviated name: UGOT
Address: University of Göteborg
Vasaparken, POB 463
SE 40530 Göteborg
Country: Sweden
Tel: + 46 31-773 1000
Fax: +46 31-773 1064
e-mail: k.sundell@zool.gu.se
Website: www.zool.gu.se

Partners

Name: Dr. Deborah Power - Comparative and Molecular Endocrinology Group
Abbreviated name: CCMAR, UALG
Country: Portugal

Name: Dr. Patrick Prunet - Group of Physiology of Stress and Adaptation in fish
Abbreviated name: INRA-1307
Country: France

Name: Dr. Antonio Figueras - Instituto Investigaciones Marinas
Abbreviated name: CSIC
Country: Spain