The overall objectives of CoE ANIMBIOGEN IN EU, being a follow-up of the CoE ANIMBIOGEN (2003-2006) are: (1) stimulating the realisation of the full research potential of the Centre located in the EU convergence region by unlocking and developing its existing excellence in the fields of genomics and biotechnology for improvement of farm animals’ functional traits and high quality food obtained in sustainable production systems, with reference to animal welfare and a limited unfavourable effect of agriculture on the environment in Europe, (2) helping to strengthen and achieve the highest quality research capacity of the Centre (human and material potential, proficient research management) to participate successfully in research activities at the European level, resulting in the joint grant proposals for FP 7 research projects. These objectives will be achieved by (based on SWOT analysis): exchange of know-how and experience by bilateral visits, twinning, networking and two-way secondments of staff with strategic outstanding European partners, knowledge transfer through conferences and workshops, recruitment of experienced researchers, wide promotion of the Centre, acquisition and development of laboratory equipment, intensive scientific cooperation with leading EU institutions and facilitating cooperation with SMEs. The project will be realised by the Institute of Genetics and Animal Breeding of the Polish Academy of Sciences employing 138 people, including 37 scientists and 15 PhD students. The Institute provides well equipped laboratories, conference facilities and an experimental farm keeping cattle, pigs, goats, sheep, hens, quails and rabbits. The successful completion of the project will contribute to reinforcement of the Centre RTD cooperation within ERA and with SMEs and Technology Platforms, realisation of a number of European strategies, regional capacity building, as well as economic and social cohesion of the Polish Mazowsze region with EU.