EU scientists to see investment from European Commission

The European Commission has announced €6.4 billion of investment for scientists across EU member states in order to tackle social challenges including the ageing population and climate change issues.

Among the sums to be awarded is €1.2 billion in ICT investment, with scientists due to look into technologies such as photonics, electronics and robotics.

Small and medium-sized enterprises are also to receive a portion of the funds to allow private businesses to accelerate their own innovative development procedures.

European Commissioner Maire Geoghegan-Quinn says: "Investment in research and innovation is the only smart and lasting way out of crisis and towards sustainable and socially equitable growth."

Science and technological development are among the policy areas on which the commission acts.

Its specific topics of focus include the internet, communications and audiovisual media, along with enhancing user literacy among EU citizens so that people can use and understand the new technologies put at their disposal.