Transnational Cooperation

ERA-NET PathoGenoMics

FCT is a member of the ERA-PathoGenoMics, transnational network which aims to improve transparency and consistency of programs and/or parts of programs for the National Research Genomics of human pathogenic microorganisms (Pathogenomics) by:

establishing a close and sustained cooperation and coordination, encouraging collaboration and continuous exchange of ideas between funding agencies and between them and the stakeholders (researchers, Industry, Innovation Agencies, etc.);
establishing an internal market for Pathogenomics with transnational movement, exchange of information, and knowledge exchange;
the increase of training and human resources with the promotion and facilitation of mobility between the partners;
the formation of transnational systems that support the Innovation and Technology Transfer;
defining a work plan and training in the area of European Patogenómica as part of European policy.

This network started in 2004 with the participation of 15 partners from 10 European countries, which have cooperated to promote and fund research in genomics of microorganisms that cause disease in humans (with special emphasis on genomic studies of bacteria and pathogenic fungi) and the implementation of the European Research Area (ERA).

The countries that participate in this network are: Portugal, Austria, Finland, France, Hungary, Israel, Latvia, Portugal, Slovenia, and Spain.

PathoGenoMics opened three transnational calls to finance projects for a maximum period of three years. FCT was a partner in the three calls, with a commitment of about 1 M € for the Portuguese projects selected. Of the 34 consortia funded in the 1st and 2nd competitions, 11 had Portuguese participation.

Awards

PathoGenoMics PhD Award

The portuguese researcher Alexandra Nunes from the National Health Institute Dr. Ricardo Jorge received one of the three 2011 PathoGenoMics PhD awards with her doctoral work entitled Genomic and Transcriptomic Features of Chlamydia trachomatis: Tracking the Basis for the Ecological Success.

ERA-NET PathoGenoMics Science to Society Award

ERA-NET PathoGenoMics Award for Communication to the Public on Genomic Aspects of Pathogenic Bacteria and Fungi