The Research Framework Programme is the European Union's main mechanism for funding research in Europe and offers substantial funding opportunities for the UK health research community
The European Commission published its proposals for the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) in April 2005, to run between 2007-2013.
As in previous Framework Programmes, research relevant to human health features prominently in the FP7 proposal. There is a dedicated 'Health' theme that aims to improve the health of European citizens and increase the competitiveness of European health related industries, while addressing global health issues such as emerging epidemics. Other themes incorporate issues including diet and nutrition, health applications of information and communication technologies, health applications of nanotechnology, and environment and health.
There are three groups of activities within the 'Health' theme: