Over the period 1994-1998, the 4th Framework Programme 's priority themes were information and telecommunications technologies, environmental research, biotechnology and health, transport systems and the impact of technology on society. In addition, the Joint European Torus in Culham, Oxfordshire employs some 300 EU and Swiss scientists engaged in developing nuclear fusion technology. The JRC budget will be euro 1.02 billion over the four years. Under the 1994 European Economic Area Agreement, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway participate fully in the Framework Programmes and contribute to the budget. Furthermore, the EU has Science and Technology agreements with Canada, South Africa, Australia, the USA and Israel and under negotiation with partners such as Russia and China.
Competition is strong and applications are judged on merit.