Invitation: Tenders to host the ICSU World Data System International Programme Office (IPO)

ICSU is inviting tenders to host the ICSU World Data System International Programme Office (IPO). At the 29th ICSU General Assembly (Maputo, October 2008) it was agreed to establish the ICSU World Data System as an ICSU Interdisciplinary Body and at its last meeting the Executive Board of ICSU decided to create an International Programme Office (IPO) which will serve to manage and coordinate the establishment and operations of the ICSU World Data System, and take responsibility for outreach and promotional activities. The IPO will act under the guidance of the ICSU World Data System Scientific Committee (WDS-SC).

While the ICSU World Data System is foreseen as being a long term endeavour, ICSU recognizes that a host institution may not be able to make unlimited commitment regarding an IPO. However, ICSU is seeking bids of five years' duration as a minimum. A prime requirement of the IPO will be that it is hosted in an institution that is fairly accessible in terms of international transport. In addition, there needs to be unimpeded access for international scientific visitors attending meetings. The Scientific Committee and possible subcommittee meetings are likely to be held on or close to the IPO premises. The IPO will be expected to provide adequate support for such meetings.

Please click the necessary information and requirements for the new office as well as the information form to be completed and returned to Mustapha Mokrane (mustapha@icsu.org) no later than 30 September 2010.