Through joining ICOS (Integrated Carbon Observation System) research consortium and its full membership starting as of 1 January 2022, Hungary joins the most important European research organisation for climate and atmospheric research. ICOS aims to provide long-term studies to better understand the global carbon cycle and to collect reliable data on changes in greenhouse gases through the coordinated operation of its growing network of nearly 150 atmospheric, ecological and oceanic monitoring sites, using standardised measurement methods.

Also in the last few weeks, BBMRI-ERIC (Biobanking and Biomolecular Research Infrastructure, European Research Infrastructure Consortium) has taken a decision on Hungary’s request for membership which the organisation’s General Assembly supported by a unanimous vote on 14 June.

BBMRI-ERIC aims to promote the development of new, effective therapeutic treatments by aligning the needs and opportunities of researchers, the industry and patients in need of treatment, and supporting related biomedical research. As part of this, the organisation provides high-quality management services, advice on ethical, legal and social issues, and IT support to participants in research programmes. The coordinator of the BBMRI node in Hungary is Semmelweis University, and the University of Szeged, the University of Pécs and the Central Hospital of Southern Pest are among its participants.