Related Links Involvement of scientists in European science policy-making The Initiative for Science in Europe (ISE) The European Life Sciences Forum EMBO Members Briefing papers on current concerns EMBO reports editorials Reviews of national life science programmes Gender-relevant policy analysis EMBO Council & committees EMBC

EMBO recognises its responsibility to provide a well-informed and independent perspective that reflects the overall viewpoint of its most valuable asset - the EMBO networks."

A central part of EMBO’s work is its contribution to European science policy-making. The organisation monitors key issues, facilitates debate and offers sound scientific advice on various issues, challenges and policy options facing the scientific community.

The strength of EMBO’s voice in these policy-making arenas is based on the collective reputation of its scientifically excellent networks - the EMBO Members in Europe, associate members worldwide, a growing network of EMBO Young Investigators and thousands of EMBO Fellows who maintain close contact with the organisation. These networks are EMBO’s most valuable asset and at the core of the organisation’s influence on European policy.

As a response to the international consensus on the need for a stronger European base for research and knowledge generation, EMBO played a pivotal role in the establishment of the European Research Council (ERC). The organisation provided strong scientific and political input, independently, and as a founding member of the European Life Sciences Forum (ELSF) and the Initiative for Science in Europe (ISE). Together with these two organisations EMBO continues to monitor developments,and strengthen the voice and involvement of the scientific community in this and other debates, with the special infrastructure needs for the life sciences as the focus of attention.

EMBO also acts as a catalyst in other areas, bringing together specialists to discuss key scientific issues such as stem cells or the use of animals in research. Resulting publications and briefing papers offer a solid scientific background to policy decisions. EMBO also monitors the effect of science policy on career development and the progression of women working in the life sciences. The organisation uses its findings and statistical studies as input to gender-relevant policy.

EMBO offers its services as an advisory and review body to EMBC Member States – carrying out reviews of national research programmes, most recently in Spain. Initiatives such as the EMBO Installation Grants have been established to strengthen and sustain research throughout all member states.
EMBOreports features commentaries on the social impact of advances in the life sciences and offers a monthly forum for discussion of topics related to science policy - providing scientists and other interested readers with a variety of perspectives. Editorials provide commentary and analysis on the implications of politics, industry, finance and society on the environment in which scientific research is conducted.

In all of these activities EMBO assesses the policy issues and challenges that lie ahead to assist in maintaining and strengthening European scientific and intellectual potential.

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