The University of Oslo places emphasis on being an internationally-oriented research university, and is an active participant in international collaboration. The University's strategic plan for 2010–2020 states that there must be greater international activity, among others through increased participation in selective strategic partnerships and the European Research Area (ERA). Active participation in the EU's Seventh Framework Programme for research and development, and involvement in developing ERA will be important pillars for achieving this goal.
The EU's Seventh Framework Programme
The EU's framework programme for research and development is the world's largest research programme, and the Seventh Framework Programme, which supports research activities and technology development in and outside Europe, will run from 2007–2013. The University of Oslo is involved in FP7 in most of our fields.
The University's EU activities
The University of Oslo has participated in the EU's framework programmes for research and development since 1991, and is the Norwegian university with the largest EU portfolio. In total, different academic environments at the University have been involved in over 400 EU-funded projects.
The European Research Area (ERA)
ERA will collect and promote research, innovation and technology development in Europe in a common area. Through its strategic goals, the University has strong support in ERA's vision for an open common research area.