On 27 February 2013, president Barroso announced the creation of the Science and Technology Advisory Council.

According to president Barroso "science and innovation are key drivers for European competitiveness, economic growth and the creation of new jobs. This Advisory Council will focus on science and technology related topics that are of cross-cutting nature, with a clear societal dimension. It will identify the issues of value where science, research and innovation can contribute to support future development in Europe".

The Science and Technology Advisory Council is an independent and informal advisory body formed by experts from academia, business and civil society. Its members have been selected by the president in consultation with Professor Anne Glover, the European Commission’s first Chief Scientific Advisor since January 2012.

The aim of this informal advisory body is to give advice directly to the president on “how to create the proper environment for innovation”, on “the opportunities and risks stemming from scientific and technological progress” and on how to ensure that Europe “remains a global leader in cutting-edge technologies”.

Together with the Innovation Union, the European Research Area and Horizon 2020, this Advisory Council is one more step towards reaching the Europe 2020 strategy goal of “smart, sustainable and inclusive growth”.

European Commission