EU-funded malaria research under the 6th and 7th Framework Programmes for research and technological development.

Area of Science:

• Malaria research and control
• European Research Area (ERA) development

Background:

• European malaria research historically strong, boosted by EU's 6th and 7th Framework Programmes (FP6, FP7).
• Research organized around parasite biology, drug development, vaccine R&D, and vector control.
• Focus on including research groups from disease-endemic countries, particularly Africa, to build capacity.

Discussion:

• EU-funded malaria research exemplifies successful European Research Area (ERA) formation.
• ERA implementation driven by political will, responsive programming, defined research scope, and community readiness.
• Major EU projects serve as platforms for global collaboration.

Key Insights:

• Sustained EU support has enhanced the impact and visibility of European malaria research.
• Cooperative research networks established across four key areas of malaria science.
• Inclusion of African research groups strengthens global partnerships and local capabilities.

Outlook:

• EU malaria research platforms are poised for collaboration with international partners.
• Europe can enhance its contribution to the global malaria research agenda.
• The ERA model, demonstrated by malaria research, offers a blueprint for future scientific cooperation.