Overview
European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) is an EU-funded programme that enables researchers to set up their interdisciplinary research networks in Europe and beyond. It provide funds for organising conferences, meetings, training schools, short scientific exchanges or other networking activities in a wide range of scientific topics.
The programme allows researchers to develop their own ideas and new initiatives across all fields in science and technology, including social sciences and humanities, through pan-European networking of nationally funded research activities.
The COST Member States include the 28 EU Member States, as well as Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, Iceland, Montenegro, Serbia, Switzerland, Turkey, and the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia.
How to participate in cost
The Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) is able to provide seed funding for the travel costs of South African researchers traveling to Europe.
STEP 1
Find the COST Action(s) relevant to your interest and expertise. Apply as a Working Group member via the Action’s website. You can get in-touch with the Action Chair and agree on the mutual benefit of your participation.
STEP 2
After approval, inform the DSTI and apply for funding to attend COST Activities. Enquiries about the DSTI application process should be sent to contact@esastap.org.za, and copy (cc) anita.mnisi@dsti.gov.za and ntombi.mchuba@dsti.gov.za.
STEP 3
The application process takes approximately 6 weeks. Applicants are encouraged to submit documents early to the DSTI officials and copy the research office of their institution.
STEP 4
Applications should be submitted to contact@esastap.org.za. Copy (cc) Ms Anita Mnisi, Deputy Director: Strategic Partnerships (anita.mnisi@dsti.gov.za) and Ms Ntombi Mchuba, Assistant Director Strategic Partnerships (ntombi.mchuba@dsti.gov.za) along with the Research Office of your institution.
ESASTAP is a collaboration between the Department of Science and Innovation, partnering member states and the European Commission. The programme’s main objective is to strengthen ties within the field of science, technology and innovation. Funding for projects, mainly sourced from both the Department of Science and Innovation of the Republic of South Africa and the European Commission.