ExpeER workpackages spanned a variety of activities:
- It was necessary to thoroughly describe all the 30 sites in 19 countries and to determine gaps in their research capacities (WP1). Since an objective was to integrate the results of all these sites, improving the standardisation of the measurements and providing guidelines for database interoperability was a continuous important task (WP2 and WP3).
- Joint research activities provided a common framework and roadmap for improving the quality and performance of the infrastructures: WP7 was developing new measurement techniques, from DNA sequencing techniques up to remote sensing of primary productivity. WP8 improved environmental control techniques (warming, CO2 enrichment) and experimental approaches (model ecosystems, biodiversity impacts). WP9 has build a toolbox around 3 models for the analysis of ecosystem processes. Finally, WP10 developed a model-data fusion approach to upscale ecosystem responses to environmental changes.
- ExpeER provided a framework for increased use and exploitation of its facilities through a strong and coordinated programme for Transnational Access (WP6). 107 TA proposals were accepted during the entire time in which the call was open (45-months). This was an efficient tool to stimulate the collaboration between European research groups.
- Networking (WP4) and communication activities (WP5) strengthen collaboration and integration with related networks and projects. Options for the division of tasks between infrastructures of the European ecosystem research are elaborated.
