Work package leader: NERC
Participating partners: PT-DLR and RCN

Objectives

• To collate information on the programmes and processes used by ERA-Net member states to assist biodiversity research in developing countries, and further to optimise information exchange, programme management, use of facilities, and ultimately to develop a joint research call relevant for and in collaboration with developing countries.

Task 1: Collation of biodiversity research programmes and processes in ERA-Net members with programmes in developing countries
Task leader: Germany – PT-DLR (6)

Specific Objectives:

• Identification of all state agencies in ERA-Net member states who are funding international biodiversity projects.
• describe programme management methodologies in these agencies and identify opportunities for exchange of best practice and potential coordinated calls.
• design methodologies for comparing foresight, prioritising, tendering, selection, monitoring, evaluation, counterpart involvement, benefit sharing, capacity building and reporting methods.

Task 2: To develop searchable databases of information on biodiversity programmes and field stations/labs funded by EU Member States in developing countries
Task leader: UK – NERC (19)

Specific Objectives:

• develop common methodologies for classification of biodiversity research, following recommendations and structures of the Convention for Biological Diversity.
• encourage national databases of biodiversity programmes and projects to adopt common classification methodologies.
• establish a searchable European metadatabase of information on joint EU-developing country biodiversity research projects, programmes and facilities.

Task 3: To develop a common call in an appropriate area of biodiversity research in collaboration with developing countries
Task leader: Norway – RCN (11)

Specific Objectives:

• report on national and international foresight exercises to prioritise thematic areas of biodiversity research in developing countries.
• make recommendations for the joint planning, funding and management of calls in specific areas of biodiversity research in developing countries.
• initiate and implement a joint call in at least one area of biodiversity research in developing countries in close collaboration with selected developing countries.