Research and training activities in the area of nuclear research are covered by the European Atomic Energy Community (Euratom). Legally separated from the European Union (EU), Euratom has its own framework programme: the Seventh Euratom Framework Programme, established for the 2007-2011 period with a budget of €2.7 billion.

The objective of the Euratom research programme is to increase the knowledge and enhance the scientific and technical competences in the area of nuclear energy in Europe. Through the activities it supports, Euratom aims to promote the safety, the security, the reliability, the sustainability and the cost-effectiveness of nuclear energy.

The Seventh Euratom Framework Programme involves two programmes:

• A programme supporting indirect actions in the fields of fusion energy research, nuclear fission and radiation protection. These indirect actions are managed by the European Commission.
• A programme supporting the direct actions of the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in the field of nuclear energy. These actions cover a range of areas:  management of radioactive waste, ecological impact, nuclear safety and security.

To participate in one of these activities, applicants must respond to a call for project proposals. The participation rules are specified for each call.