Project Outline – Overall objectives
The EnTec project envisages a set of coherent activities with a direct aim to strengthen the research capacity of INRaSTES to conduct high quality research activities at European, National and Regional level. The proposed plan will be built on four solid pillars:
- Upgrade of the existing research infrastructure, which includes the recruitment of high level scientific personnel, modernization of existing unique facilities and acquisition of new equipment
- Strategic partnership and collaboration between INRaSTES and renowned research entities in the development of environmental monitoring technologies and climate research in the ERA (European Research Area). This action also links cross-cutting research with national policy makers and end users
- Outreaching of the INRaSTES scientific achievements and research capacities as the means of increasing visibility of the work and expanding R&D collaboration
- Pursuit of long-term self-sustainability based on the establishment of an appropriate innovation planand effective mechanisms that will ensure financial support for the whole spectrum of the proposed R&D activities, also after EnTec
To achieve this, EnTeC aims at supporting and promoting the execution of innovative R&D actions which arise from the implementation of the INRaSTES Action Plan on Integrated Environmental technologies for Atmospheric pollution and Climate Research. A coherent set of research activities is proposed that will increase the contribution of INRaSTES to regional sustainable development, employment growth and crucially highlight scientific excellence, visibility and active participation in the European Research Area.
In parallel, EnTec embraces networking activities with regard to research, innovation and technology with other “excellent” research institutions in Europe. Emphasis is placed on achieving strategic partnerships and establishing research staff mobility with entities performing high quality R&D that will essentially provide guidance to foreseen activities of INRaSTES.
EnTeC also aspires to significantly enhance the international dimension of INRaSTES. Within the proposed action, the strengthening of cooperation between INRaSTES and renowned institutions in Europe is pursued that will allow access to world class knowledge and technologies.
A key component of the whole endeavour will be to setup and perform the initial steps towards the financial self-sustainability of the INRaSTES that will ensure a constant revenue for all foreseen R&D activities, which will be analysed and accurately analysed by a group of external experts and INRaSTES personnel in the first year of the project. In the same context efforts will be made to enhance the industry support, through the bilateral agreement with industrial partners and the design and execution of common R&D activities.
