The research programme CORE covers several themes considered to be priorities for the public research sector in Luxembourg. Its main objective is to stimulate and encourage research in fields that are crucial for Luxembourg’s economy, society and environment.

Research projects implemented within the framework of CORE should contribute to increasing knowledge and building expert networks that are active in key areas. Particular importance is paid to the quality of the research projects as well as to the ongoing training of researchers. The overall aim is to enhance the competitiveness of Luxembourg research at international level. In order to enhance the visibility of research carried out in the Grand Duchy, the programme encourages the frequent publication of scientific articles in internationally renowned journals.

CORE targets public research organisations in Luxembourg. Research projects implemented with CORE support have an average duration of 2-3 years. All projects should be managed by a dedicated project leader.

The programme is structured around several priority areas:

Innovation in services aims to consolidate the service sector as a driving force of economic growth in Luxembourg. Maintaining the competitive position Luxembourg boasts in the financial industry as well as its renowned status/characteristic as a market place is a priority. Research also focuses on diversification, the development of new services, and the capacity for innovation within the sector.

Sustainable resource management in Luxembourg is another priority. Research projects encompass a wide range of themes. They aim at tackling environmental challenges in order to find sustainable solutions, improve the quality of life, fulfil the commitments made to international initiatives, and explore the economic opportunities associated with the sustainable management of resources.

New functional and intelligent materials and surfaces, and new sensing applications offer a wide range of economic, technological and scientific opportunities in a number of areas. Research carried out addresses various aspects and aims to enhance knowledge in this field.

Biomedical sciences are of the utmost importance for individual and public health issues and for improving the quality of life. Research in this area aims at helping provide answers to the health challenges Luxembourg will face: structural problems in the health care system, an aging population, etc. Research efforts focus on two aspects: improved medical treatments and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle.

Societal changes for Luxembourg aims to address complex and interrelated socio-economic challenges. The three main research topics are social and economic cohesion; education and learning; and identities, diversity and interaction.

The programme issues annual calls for project proposals. Proposals have to be submitted online to the National Research Fund (FNR) within the timeframe provided for each call. Project proposals must be submitted by public-sector research bodies.

The programme offers specific opportunities for young researchers, who have had their PhD degree for 6 years at most, to take on the responsibility of managing a research project. Specific conditions apply to projects managed by young researchers in the framework of CORE Junior Track:

• human resources are limited to 1 FTE (full-time equivalent) researcher and the option of 1 FTE PhD student
• the young project manager will be assisted by a local supervisor and will have to collaborate with a foreign, highly renowned researcher. This will contribute to the establishment of an international network and to the development of the young researcher’s career.