What is COST ASSIST?

Antennas are a key constituent of all terrestrial, airborne and space based wireless multimedia, communications and sensor systems. Antenna functions are fast evolving, driven by the demanding needs of the Information Society Technologies. Traditional antenna areas still demand research and innovation efforts. But also, new unforeseen and challenging problems are appearing. Antennas and electromagnetic sensors are also becoming a major system component in areas such as Consumer Electronics, Health Care, Biology, Radio Astronomy, Earth Sciences, and Earth Resources Monitoring. The on-going convergence of terrestrial and satellite-based mobile systems operating with small, low-cost user terminals and the continuing quest for wider frequency bands set other challenges.

Cooperation towards a deeper understanding of antenna operation in these new complex environments and for the corresponding development of adequate modelling and measuring tools are the main scientific objectives of this Action. These trans-disciplinary oriented goals will benefit both antenna specialists and researchers working on the above mentioned domains. Additional benefits include university-industry collaborations, mobility of young researchers and support of Pan-European initiatives (European Conference and European School of Antennas).

Main objectives

• To assist in the research & development of antenna systems and sensors necessary for the new ubiquitous wireless society
Coordinate existing research
Suggest new topics
Stand in a scientific/technological survey attitude
• To contribute to the visibility of antenna activities in Europe and to lobby for new projects
Creation of an European Antenna community
Conferences and Workshops
Exchange of researchers
Interactions academy-industry
• To increase public awareness of antenna related issues

COST Actions are excellent frameworks for innovative blue-sky research at a pre-competitive stage. This can be done with the internal budgets available at Universities, COST assuming a coordination role (and with commercial interests fertilising the academic research). Exchange of researchers and PhD research, supported by industry and by COST via Short-term Scientific Missions, takes place.