Theme 4
The core objective of Theme 4 – Nanosciences, Nanotechnologies, Materials and New Production Technologies (NMP) – is to fund research, development, demonstration and coordination projects that will effectively contribute to the transformation of European industry from a resource-intensive to a knowledge-intensive industry, thus meeting the challenges imposed by the new industrial revolution and competition at a global level.
This transformation is essential in order to not only stop the relocation of European industry, but also create new industries, and hence growth and employment. Furthermore, it should be driven and supported by a competitive knowledge production capacity at the global level.
The NMP Theme pursues the overall objective of enhancing the competitiveness of European industry by generating step changes in a wide range of sectors. The aim is also to implement decisive knowledge for new applications at the crossroads between different technologies and disciplines.
Research will be focused on generating high added value products and related processes and technologies to meet customer requirements as well as growth, public health, occupational safety, environmental protection prerequisites, and societal values and expectations. The competitiveness of more mature industries is also largely dependent on their capacity to integrate knowledge and new technologies.
Coordination with other Themes in Framework Programme 7 (FP7)
The cross-sectoral nature of Theme 4 – NMP – means that obvious links also exist between NMP and the other Themes of Framework Programme 7 under the Specific Programme “Cooperation”, in particular Health, Food, Security, Space, ICT, Energy, Environment, Transport. Joint calls will be published with other Themes addressing cross-thematic areas, ensuring that the same objectives are achieved. By using Coordinated calls, complementary objectives will be addressed via a coordinated approach. The NMP Theme will also seek synergies with the Specific Programme “Capacities” of the 7th Framework Programme.