A leading science policy group has launched a science advisory network for French-speaking countries, enabling researchers across the francophone world to share ideas and best practice.

A scientific board that helped forge links between European researchers and policymakers will close down on November 1, 2014. It is unknown if the new development commissioner will set up a similar board.

The just-elected parliament will face several key decisions on research funding, which will have far-reaching consequences for German scientists. Several big funding programs run out between 2015 and 2019, and the next government will shape their replacements. There is broad support across parties, however, for continuing the programs in some form.