Highlights from the 1st Management Committee Meeting in Brussels
On October 7, 2024, we officially launched our COST Action with the 1st Management Committee Meeting (MC1) at the COST Association headquarters in Brussels. This milestone gathering brought together 25 participants, including 19 MC members from ITC countries and an additional member from a non-COST country, setting the foundation for the work ahead.
The primary goal of MC1 was to familiarize members with COST’s structure and objectives, ensureing a shared understanding of the challenges and goals of our Action, elect mandatory leadership positions, and discuss the proposal for the Work and Budget Plan.
Our Action Chair, Dr. Mona Garloff, guided us through the objectives, timeline, and organizational structure of the Action, providing a clear roadmap for the coming years.
A highlight of the day was the COST Action Café, where participants engaged in small-group discussions to reflect on the needs, motivations, and next steps for each Working Group. These conversations helped us align expectations and identify key priorities.
Following the election of the Action Leaders, Core Group, and other leadership roles, we had productive discussions on Working Group applications, Action budget, and Timelines for the first two Grant Periods.
We were fortunate to have the support of our hosts from the COST Association, Science Officer Dr. Emiljano Kaziaj and Administrative Officer Ms. Olga Gorczyca, who provided valuable insights into the scientific and financial aspects of managing the Action. Their guidance helped clarify essential procedures and funding mechanisms that will be crucial in the years ahead.
MC1 was more than just a planning meeting—it was the starting point of a collaborative journey that will shape the future of our Action. We left Brussels highly motivated to embark on this exciting endeavor.
Stay tuned for updates as we move forward with our Working Groups, research activities, and upcoming events. This is just the beginning!