The Bulgarian Academy of Sciences (BAS) received good annual ratings from the European Science Foundation (ESF), Dnevnik daily reported on November 30 2009.

According to the international assessment of BAS, most of its institutions and departments are conducting essential, vital and valuable work that abides by international standards. The particular institutions singled out for praise within the BAS, however, were not named by either the ESF report or by the head of the academy, Nikola Subotinov. Similarly, departments of the BAS that received less flattering assessments were also not named.

The ESF report stressed that BAS operated on the "border of survival" due to severe lack of funding. It was therefore proposed that the academy's funding should re-evaluated thoroughly so that the institution can achieve greater effectiveness and efficiency.

"BAS is a recognised academic and scientific research centre, and as such it has the right to exist among its European counterparts, and this is of significant importance," Subotinov said, quoted by Focus news agency on November 30 2009. .

Subotinov said that in spite of the lack of funding, Bulgarian scientists performed "heroics" and have achieved decent results.

Regardless of the good assessment and positive marks earned by the Bulgarian institution, certain departments and branches will have to be restructured and overhauled, according to Education Minister Sergei Ignatov. One of BAS' principal problems is its over-dependence on older scientists, and the lack of young academic minds coming through the ranks. This, along with the small budget, creates a serious "brain drain" that undermines the institution.

The ESF is an association of 80 member organisations devoted to scientific research in about 30 European countries. The institutions supply a platform for future analysis as well as extensive research networking on a European and global scale to its affiliated ESF- member organisations.

According to its mission and strategic plan, as described on its website, the ESF conducts foresight programmes in science, programmes to enhance science synergy. Furthermore, it provides the management structure and administration for European co-operation in scientific and technological research.