Specific research programme RTD: biotechnology (1994-1998)

The proposal for a decision aimed to establish a specific programme of research and technological development, including demonstration, in the field of biotechnology for the period 1994-1998. - Amount deemed necessary: ECU 552 million. - General objective of the programme: to make use of a wide range of scientific opportunities afforded by accelerated progress in molecular and cellular biology and to concentrate joint efforts on biotechnology where the added value of cooperation translated into industrial and social advantages. The programme covered eight areas of research: cell factories; genome analysis; plant and animal biotechnology; cell communication in neurosciences; immunology and transdisease vaccinology; structural biology; pre-normative research, biodiversity and social acceptance, infrastructures. Participation in the programme was open, with financial support from the Community, to all legal entities established in the Community or in an associated country, following the conclusion of an agreement with that country, as well as to the Joint Research Centre. The programme would be implemented through shared-cost actions, concerted actions, specific measures and accompanying measures relating to international cooperation, the dissemination of results and the training of researchers and users. The Commission was authorised to hold negotiations with a view to concluding international agreements with third countries in Europe in order to involve them in all or some of the programme. �