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SCIENCE IN SOCIETY

Budget: €330 million (2007 - 2013)

'Science in Society' aims to bridge the gap between science professionals and those without a formal science education and to promote a taste for scientific culture in the public at large. Some of the initiatives, therefore, are aimed at triggering the curiosity of young people for science and at reinforcing science education at all levels.

What's the benefit for citizens:

While science and technology has an increasing influence on our daily lives, it may appear to be removed from the daily concerns of a large part of the public and of policy makers. Contentious issues relating to emerging technologies should be addressed by society on the basis of wellinformed debate leading to sound choices and decisions. Therefore, another key issue is the encouragement of societal dialogue on research policy; stimulating civil society organisations to become more involved in research; debating and promoting shared values, equal opportunities and societal dialogue.

What's the benefit for researchers:

The initiative undertaken in the field of 'Science in Society' will provide support to issues such as strengthening and improving the European science system. This includes "self regulation" and the development of a policy on the role of universities. The role of research based in universities and their engagement in the challenges of globalisation will be strengthened.
The continuation and further expansion of gender research is foreseen, including the integration of the gender dimension in all areas of research.
Special attention will go to improving communication between the scientific world and the wider audience of policy-makers, the media and the general public. This would partly be achieved by helping scientists and media professionals to work closer together.
Further efforts will be made to set landmarks for an ethically sound research endeavour in the light of fundamental rights. Initiatives will be undertaken to improve governance of the European research and innovation system.

What's the benefit for industry and SMEs:

By stimulating young people to take on science studies, industry's personnel needs might be better supported in the longer term. The progress of women in scientific careers will be promoted, along with the better use of their professional and scientific talents.
Ethical frameworks for research activities together with an open-debate culture on research and its place in society, will be reinforced in order to enhance the trust of citizens in industrial research activities.