COST special issue [Editorial]

Abstract

In this special issue of Xjenza Online, presented are papers by scientists based in Malta, notably from the University of Malta, with collaborators from institutions in Europe that have participated in European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) actions. COST is Europe’s longest-running intergovernmental framework for cooperation in science and technology. Founded in 1971, the mission of COST is to “enable breakthrough scientific developments leading to new concepts and products and thereby contribute to strengthen Europe’s research and innovation capacities.” The COST Actions connect scientific researchers across disciplines from across Europe and the world. They provide networking opportunities for early career investigators; increase the impact of research on policy makers, regulatory bodies and national decision makers as well as the private sector. Through its inclusiveness, particularly the participation of women researchers, COST actions support integration of research communities. This special issue of Xjenza Online showcases 9 articles. The first article, by Janet Mifsud, provides some history and background on COST. The paper highlights the increased participation of Malta in these actions, which has steadily grown from 47 researchers in 2011 to 149 in 2014. The other contributions are on topics associated with specific COST Actions.