FP7 - Euratom

SEVENTH FRAMEWORK PROGRAMME - EURATOM

The Seventh Framework Programme of the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom) for nuclear research and training activities (2007 to 2011)

Euratom energy research activities are carried out under the treaty with the same name, which in 1957 established the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom). Euratom has a legally independent structure and its own Research Framework Programme which is managed by the common Community institutions. Eventhough Member States retain most of their competencies in energy policy, be it nuclear or other sources, the Euratom Treaty has achieved an important degree of harmonisation at European level. It provides legistation for numerous specific tasks related to the management of nuclear resources and research activities.

The Council Decision concerning the FP7 of Euratom for nuclear research and training activities has a budget assigned of EUR 2 751 million to be spent over five years (2007-2011).

The 7PM of Euratom comprises two associated programmes:

1. The first covers indirect actions in the fields of fusion energy research and nuclear fission and radiation protection.
   
   
2. The second addresses direct actions in the nuclear field undertaken by the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC). The JRC, established by the Euratom Treaty, has become a leading institute of nuclear research in Europe.
   
   

Indirect actions are managed by the Directorate-General for Research (DG RTD) of the European Commission. The specific programmes allocate

1. EUR 1 947 million to fusion energy research and EUR 287 million for nuclear fission and radiation protection.
   
   
2. A total of EUR 517 million has been reserved for nuclear JRC activities. Furthermore, the JRC is also a partner in many of the consortia carrying out indirect actions in the fission field.
   
   

The FP7 of Euratom has the set a goal to address major issues and challenges in nuclear research and contribute to the further consolidation of the European Research Area in the nuclear energy sector. Likewise, supports existing Community policies in addition to responding to new policy requirements.
EUratom Framework Programme boosts the creation of a critical mass and new structures of key research fields at the European level, and promotes the free movement of ideas, knowledge and researchers.

The general of this research programme is to develop and pool knowledge, improve scientific and technical in support of safety, security, reliability, sustainability and cost-effectiveness of nuclear energy.