European Science Foundation (ESF) is an association of more than 70 scientific research organizations in 30 European countries. The ESF promotes international cooperation in the development of science in Europe. It brings together leading scientists and research-funding groups to debate, plan, and implement projects of value to Europe as a whole. The foundation also promotes the mobility of researchers and the free flow of information and ideas across international borders. In addition, ESF networks connect scientists in Europe to those outside the continent.
The ESF holds conferences and workshops, makes research facilities available, trains young scientists, and coordinates international research. Research areas include the humanities; life, environmental, and earth sciences; medical sciences; physical and engineering sciences; and social sciences. The foundation also addresses issues of science policy.
The main decision-making body of the ESF is known as the Assembly. All the member organizations have representatives in the Assembly, which meets once a year. The Assembly appoints the foundation’s president and its secretary general as well as an Executive Board. A Governing Council establishes and monitors the foundation’s strategies and policies, and the Executive Board implements them. A number of committees work in particular areas of research.
The European Community (now the European Union) established the European Science Foundation in 1974. The foundation receives funding from its member organizations. Its main office is in Strasbourg, France.
