"The Laboratory of Geodesy and Geomatics in the Technical University of Crete, Greece, is located in the less advanced region of Crete, but it is a dynamic and developing scientific entity on a European and international scale. Its primary research activities are on the Global Navigation Satellite Systems, satellite geodesy and deformation monitoring, quality control algorithms and software for geodetic data, and on satellite altimetry calibration. GeoMatLab operates the Gavdos permanent Cal/Val facility and the deformation GNSS monitoring array in west Crete. The objectives of the proposed project are : (1) to develop strategic partnerships with well established European research entities, such as: (a) the Observatoire de la Cote d'Azur, France, to reinforce the S&T potential of GeoMatLab on satellite calibration; (b) the Space Research Institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences, to transfer experiences to GeoMatLab in calibrating altimeters using transponders; (c) the Deutsches Geodätisches Forschungsinstitut (DGFI) in Munich, Germany to exchange know-how for automating the monitoring of crustal deformation of Crete using the present GNSS arrays; and the GeoForschungsZentrum(GFZ) in Potsdam, Germany for replacing radiometric measurements at Gavdos Cal/Val site with the GPS zenith troposphere delays. (2) to enhance the Gavdos present capabilities by developing new instruments for the calibration of future altimeters; (3) to recruit two new researchers to carry out research on abrupt change detection and to enhance satellite altimetry calibration procedures; (4) to organize two outreach workshops: one international with invited international experts, and one regional to involve local and regional authorities for social and economic development; and (5) to mobilize the GeoMatLab personnel and expose them internationally through international workshops and conferences,and short term training events, including its preparation for FP7 proposals."