COST Association reports record number of proposals submitted to new collaborative networks

The COST Association – European Cooperation in Science and Technology recently released its initial analysis of the applications submitted to Call will lead to the approval of 70 new collaborative networks (COST Actions) in 2026, revealing significant mobilization of the European and national scientific community. In a highly competitive process, more than a thousand proposals were submitted, and Portugal stands out once again with a high level of participation, demonstrating the vitality and continued interest of national researchers in leading and collaborating on initiatives that promote the circulation of knowledge and open innovation in the European Research Area.

Expression of interest in joining the Management Committee of a COST Action

The nomination process for theManagement Committees is also open. Each COST Action can include up to two researchers affiliated with institutions of the National Science and Technology System (SNCT) in its decision-making body. The Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT), as the national coordinating body, has set January 6 as the deadline for collecting expressions of interest that have been sent after July 2025, or that will be submitted by the established deadline.

COST's fundamental mission is to support the creation of open, bottom-up collaborative networks, enabling researchers from across Europe to develop their ideas freely. These networks are crucial for advancing knowledge and empowering their participants. Researchers interested in joining these collaborative dynamics should consult the complete list of active Actions and the detailed procedures for expressing interest in the "Legislation and Regulations" section of the page dedicated to COST on the FCT website.