This week’s coverage of the Covid-19 pandemic from Research Professional News
Europe
Universities across Europe have opened their doors to students again for the new academic year, but as a second wave of Covid-19 sweeps the continent institutions are already lining up more measures on top of those in place to combat its spread.
A manifesto for EU Covid-19 research has collected 2,000 signatures from researchers and research organisations pledging to make the results of their work openly available for the common good.
Mariya Gabriel, the European commissioner for research, innovation and education, announced that she has tested positive for Covid-19 and cancelled her meetings for the week.
Germany’s research ministry has announced financial support for a third company working on a vaccine to protect against coronavirus.
UK
Nearly all clinical trials funded by Cancer Research UK were put on hold at the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to new data released by the charity.
The UK’s biotech industry is celebrating record levels of investment despite significant disruption to the economy during the coronavirus crisis.
The decision to allow self-isolating students at Manchester Metropolitan University to mix with other students in their halls of residence was “irresponsible”, likely to result increase Covid-19 infection rates, and the result of “vague” government guidance, it has been claimed.
Advice from the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies—given to ministers on 21 September—suggested moving most face-to-face teaching in universities online.
Africa
South Africa’s president Cyril Ramaphosa made no mention of either science or research when he briefed a joint sitting of parliament on the country’s plans to rebuild after Covid-19.
Worldwide
Academics at the University of Birmingham have developed a database of Covid-19 research that allows researchers around the world to search for partners, resources and funding.