More details are provided in the analytical report:

4.25. Chapter 25: Science and research
In the area of research and innovation policy, Croatia is sufficiently prepared. It has continued to participate successfully in the Seventh EU Research Framework Programme (FP7) and has taken several measures to reform the national research landscape with a view to further integration into the European Research Area. Measures have been taken also to stimulate innovation and to contribute to the Innovation Union flagship.

In the area of the Seventh EU Research Framework Programme (FP7), Croatia is well prepared. Participation in FP7 has continued to increase. Croatia has a good level of administrative capacity and a good knowledge of cooperation with EU partners and the region. In a number of important FP7 programmes, participation is insufficient; in particular, the number of successful Marie Curie grants is still very low, the number of SMEs participating in FP7 is weak and no grants have been obtained from the European Research Council. This remains to be addressed, in particular in preparation for the next Research and Innovation programme Horizon 2020. Croatia needs to also consider more actively research opportunities on nuclear research under the Seventh Euratom Framework Programme 2011–2013.

As regards preparations for integration into the European Research Area, Croatia is sufficiently prepared. Implementation of the Action Plan for Mobility of Researchers has continued and steps have been taken to host foreign researchers in Croatia. Croatia actively participates in EURAXESS network. Thematic evaluation of public research institutes has been concluded with a view to boosting scientific excellence. There has been no increase in the level of investment in research, which is still rather low (less than 1% of GDP, compared to an EU average of 2%). Conditions for enhanced cooperation between the private and public sectors need to be encouraged. Further measures such as establishing a national roadmap for research infrastructure and transfer of technology management have to be further considered in order to be fully in line with EU standards and targets.

Conclusion
Croatia is meeting the commitments and requirements arising from the accession negotiations in the field of science and research and is in a position to implement the acquis as of accession.

Source: EC Europe