PRESTO GMO ERA-NET · Preparatory steps towards a GMO research ERA-Net

The objective of the PreSto GMO ERA-Net project is to clearly map out the steps needed to create and successfully implement an ERA-Net that will coordinate transnational research on the effects of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in the areas of human and animal health, the environment, and techno- economics and societies. The focus of the ERA-Net will be on GMOs intentionally released into the environment and/or used immediately in feed and food applications. PreSto GMO ERA-Net brings together ministries, agencies, and funding bodies from different Members States and the scientific community to jointly prepare a strategic plan and roadmap for the implementation of the ERA-Net. In addition, the ERA-Net will explicitly take into account the wider views of a diversity of stakeholders and end-users (e.g. non-governmental organisations, industry, farmers). This is intended to strengthen ownership of the ERA-Net among stakeholders in order to encourage participation of different scientific communities in the future joint transnational calls, to enhance collaboration between actors and to increase the accountability of research trajectories and outcomes.The results of the project will form the basis for a robust ERA-Net proposal. In achieving this the project work will (1) promote the accessibility of existing scientific information to interested stakeholders and end-users, (2) lead to the harmonisation of research requirements and capacity building within Europe, (3) complement international developments, (4) contribute to a more efficient use of research funds internationally and (5) identify how strategic collaboration can be used to respond to these future research and training needs through enhancement of durable partnerships.