MODBIOLIN · USE OF MODEL ORGANISMS TO RESOLVE CRUCIAL BIOLOGICAL PROBLEMS ON THE PATH TO INNOVATIONS

Biology Centre of the Academy of Sciences (BCAS) with about 400 employees and 100 PhD students is among largest research institutions of the Czech Republic. Biomedical investigations on model invertebrates that include studies of Gene cascades in development regulation, Molecular mechanisms of biological clocks and Interactions between parasites - arthropod vectors – hosts, and the Use of Arabidopsis as a model in targeted crop breeding, aspire to reaching highest EU standards with the aid of MODBIOLIN project. All 14 teams involved in the project approach in productivity their peers in advanced EU countries but further increase of BCAS output is hindered by insufficient infrastructure. MODBIOLIN will improve infrastructure by promoting knowledge exchange with excellent EU researchers and institutions, by upgrading and expanding equipment, recruiting experienced researchers, fostering collaboration within ERA, developing methods of self-evaluation, and improving the protection of intellectual property and its exploitation in innovative technologies. The acquisition of digital luminescent microscope will allow tracking various processes in living cells and thereby further improve BCAS competitiveness. The consent of 9 outstanding EU scientists to serve on the Steering Committee of MODBIOLIN and the partnering with 4 top research institutes from France, Germany and Great Britain are viewed as strong ERA support of BCAS ambitions. The project will have considerable socio-economic impact in the region and will promote public awareness of the EC role in research support and the importance of research for EU economics and welfare.