COST - European Cooperation in Science and Technology

Since 1971, COST - European Cooperation in Science and Technology has funded transnational collaboration activities in a system of open-access, bottom-up networks of researchers in all scientific and technological fields. These networks, called COST Actions, enable advances in the development of scientific knowledge, helping to strengthen Europe as a leader in R&TD. Through its inclusive policy and with particular emphasis on young researchers, COST provides a unique means for researchers to develop their ideas and initiatives freely, openly and together. COST promotes the integration and enrichment of the various scientific communities, maximizes national investment in R&TD, and makes a decisive contribution to the defragmentation of knowledge in Europe.

COST Actions are based on an intergovernmental cooperation framework which currently has 41 member countries and one cooperating country.) Institutions from non-member countries can also participate in the Actions. The funds provided by COST support the costs of coordinating research networks. More than 250 Actions are currently underway, involving around 50,000 researchers.

How to apply and take part

You should consult the documents available below in the legislation and regulations area. FCT approval is not required to join the Action Working Groups.
All communications and documents should be sent to cost@fct.pt.

Financing COST actions

Financial support covers: meetings (travel, subsistence, support for local organization, for example), conferences, workshops, short-term scientific missions, advanced training actions, publications and dissemination actions. COST does not fund research projects itself (equipment, human resources, consumables); research is funded through other mechanisms. Financial management is carried out by the responsible institution (decided during the inaugural meeting of the Action's Management Committee) under a reimbursement system. As a benchmark, a COST Action involving 20 countries will have a budget of around 130,000 euros per year for the development of its activities.

You can consult the funding opportunities in the list of Calls in progress.