Joining European Scientific Forces to Face Pandemics

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Scientific Collaboration
• European Research Policy

Background:

• The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted significant gaps in the European scientific community's preparedness and coordinated response capabilities.
• Existing international guidelines for pandemic containment were insufficient to ensure effective scientific collaboration across Europe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a robust network for inter-, multi-, and trans-disciplinary communication and collaboration among European researchers.
• To improve Europe's scientific preparedness and response mechanisms for future pandemics.

Main Methods:

• Initiation of a network comprising nine European-funded Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Actions.
• Facilitating communication and collaboration across diverse scientific fields and disciplines.

Main Results:

• A foundational network has been established to bridge disciplinary divides in scientific research.
• The network provides a platform for enhanced coordination of scientific efforts in response to health crises.

Conclusions:

• The established COST Action network is crucial for strengthening European scientific resilience against future pandemics.
• Proactive development of collaborative scientific networks is essential for effective global health security.