EUROCleftNet

Network for Orofacial Clefts Research, Prevention and Treatment (EUROCleftNet) is a Research Networking Programme funded by the European Science Foundation (ESF)

Thanks to all our delegates for their contributions to our EUROCleftNet Research Conference: Genetics, Environment and Prevention held at the Apex City Quay Hotel, Dundee, Scotland from Thursday 30 June – Friday 1 July 2016

Conference Programme

Summary Report

We are grateful for the kind assistance of Dundee & Angus Convention Bureau and Dundee City Council who worked in partnership with us to deliver a very successful conference.

Bill Slater
Programme Coordinator
School of Dentistry
University of Dundee

EUROCleftNet strategy

Primary objective:

To increase the European capability for cutting edge research aimed at:

(a) improving the quality of care of infants born with cleft lip and palate and address any inequalities across Europe

(b) improve knowledge on risk factors (genetic and environmental) with a view to primary prevention

(c) engage with clinicians, scientists, parents and research users in the strategic planning and conducting of our research.

Steps towards this objective:

• Development of a strategy for engaging European cleft teams and laboratories in ongoing and new European research collaborations initiative.
•  Identification and involvement of users in research design and development of outcomes measures for orofacial clefts. 
• Encourage research initiatives that are aimed towards improving minimum standards of cleft care, universal access to care and equality of care.
• Development of a priority list of questions for patient-centred research in the field of orofacial clefts.

Strategic action points and priorities:

1. To create a Directory of Resources to facilitate research.
2. To continue to promote the concept of collaboration between clinicians and geneticists in research (which underpinned the success of EUROCRAN).
3. To pursue a portfolio of clinical and genetics research and apply for external funding.
4. To engage with a wide range of stakeholders (including beyond Europe) to ensure that this ESF Research Network is able to address orofacial clefting holistically and globally.
5. To communicate and disseminate research findings through local, national and international networks

Peter A Mossey (Chairman, Steering Group)