International comparisons, monitoring and assessment of policies in the S&T and innovation areas (STI Outlook). Analyses of factors and policies that impinge upon the efficiency of Member countries S&T systems, notably as regards their contribution to sustainable economic growth and the fulfilment of social needs.

Development of benchmarking methodologies and identification of best practices to assist Member countries improving the design and implementation of S&T and innovation policies and the governance of public research institutions.

Identifying high-priority science policy issues, notably global issues, that can benefit from enhanced international consultation and collaboration, with the participation of international scientific organisations; Facilitate the development of action-oriented recommendations for subsequent international co-operation.

Responding, through international co-operation, to the scientific, economic, and societal policy challenges posed by the rapid development of life sciences, in particular genomics and bioinformatics, and their actual and potential applications.