This working group is actively involved in shaping the European Research Area and aims to significantly influence future framework programs (e.g., Horizon Europe 2028–2034) and their calls for proposals.
Current developments at the EU level suggest that future (framework) programs and calls may become increasingly technology-oriented, while key topics such as climate and sustainability risk being marginalized. This underlines the importance of engaging early in discussions and negotiations, and of providing coordinated feedback from the CCCA community during consultations and commentary processes. This way, topics of particular relevance to the Austrian research landscape can be highlighted—one of the group’s core tasks.
Additionally, the establishment of a core group enables a timely and well-targeted response to international inquiries. Participation in the working group offers the opportunity to gain early access to current developments and tailored information on European research funding, as well as to connect with experts from a wide range of disciplines.
Objectives:
- Enable coordinated feedback from the CCCA community on current program developments in the European Research Area (currently: Horizon Europe 2028–2034) and promote topics relevant to the Austrian community.
- Establish a core group capable of responding quickly to internationally relevant inquiries.
- Provide prioritized access to information for researchers with a specific interest in and commitment to European programs and initiatives.
- Provide a general overview of the status of climate research in Austria within an international context.
Planned Activities for the Working Group:
- Virtual meetings (as needed) with thematic focuses, e.g., tailored information from the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG) on funding opportunities.
- Development of coordinated and consolidated feedback on future work programs and calls; promotion of topics relevant to the Austrian community. The WG will prepare joint statements for the CCCA community, which will be directly communicated to the respective Austrian delegates.
- Specific invitations to workshops and events.
Thematic Focus for 2025:
- Horizon Europe Cluster 5 & Missions: How can the current, expiring framework program still be effectively utilized?
- Horizon Europe 2028-2034 (FP 10): How can climate change research regain greater visibility and space within the program?
Leadership: Elisabeth Worliczek, elisabeth.worliczek@ccca.ac.at
CCCA Board Representative: Gerhard Wotawa, GeoSphere Austria