COST was the first, and is the widest, European Network for the coordination of nationally funded research activities. It is based on an inter-governmental framework for cooperation agreed following a Ministerial Conference in 1971, and now consists of 34 European Member States plus Israel.
COST does not directly fund any research.  It is solely concerned with the promotion and facilitation of networking.

Typically, actions run for 4-5 years and have an average budget of €90,000 per annum to support networking activities such as: meetings, workshops, conferences; short term scientific mission; training schools; and publications.
In 2006, there were 228 COST Actions running of which Ireland participated in almost half, approx 110 actions.
The Actions are open to all researchers (industrial and academic). The participation of young researchers is encouraged as is participation from non-COST countries.

For further details of existing COST Actions or to submit a proposal check out the COST website

Contact

If you are interested in COST or participating in any of the above Actions, please contact;

Rita Ward Tel :  +(353 1) 8082767