As Monika Dietl puts it, "European research policy isn't only decided at Brussels". Nonetheless, having an office here helps the CNRS position itself clearly and coherently on the European scene and thereby to be an active participant in the construction of a European Research Area. "The CNRS Brussels Bureau helps the French scientific community communicate better with the European Union", says Dietl. To do this, it maintains close relations with officials of the European Commission, follows the sessions of the European Parliament, works closely with France's diplomatic presence in Brussels, and reinforces contacts with the scientific community present in Brussels.

The Bureau works to inform the decision-making process of the CNRS in its strategy towards the Sixth Framework Programme and the European Research Area. It also maintains an internal CNRS network comprised of the European affairs advisers of each scientific and administrative department and the partnership and contract services of each regional CNRS office in France. Daily dispatches are sent out from the Bureau to this network which in turn informs researchers. In addition, the Bureau organises regular information meetings and training sessions throughout France on European issues.

Finally, the Bureau works directly with CNRS laboratories to advise and guide scientists in through the administrative channels of the European Commission. Its membership and active participation in CLORA, the Association of French Research Organisations, comprise another facet of its piloting role for the CNRS in Brussels.