FP7 presents strong elements of continuity with its predecessor, mainly as regards the themes which are covered in the Cooperation programme. The themes identified for this programme correspond to major fields in the progress of knowledge and technology, where research must be supported and strengthened to address European social, economic, environmental and industrial challenges.
The overarching aim is to contribute to sustainable development.
The ten high level themes are the following:
1. Health ...areas and activities
2. Food, agriculture and biotechnology ...areas and activities
3. Information and communication technologies ...areas and activities
4. Nanosciences, Nanotechnologies, Materials and new Production Technologies ...areas and activities
5. Energy
6. Environment and Climate Change ...areas and activities
7. Transport and Aeronautics ...areas and activities
8. Socio-economic sciences and the humanities ...areas and activities
9. Space ...areas and activities
10. Security
In addition, two themes are covered by the Euratom Framework Programme:
- Fusion energy research
- Nuclear fission and radiation protection
In the case of particular subjects of industrial relevance, the topics have been identified relying, among other sources, on the work of different "European Technology Platforms".
