Biosensor development is a very promising and prospective field of research in food- clinical- and environmental analysis. Besides conventional analytical methods biosensors specifically detect only some decisive components. However, miniaturised sensor systems are able to detect components in the femto/ato-gramm region with almost no interference to other components in the investigated system. The advantage of such technologies is beside the high sensitivity/selectivity, the cost reduction and the very fast response of such analytic systems. Complex sensor systems will be developed for multiple parameter sensing on real samples combined with signal enhancement strategies. The network created by SAMOSS will improve the further development of biosensors in combination with optochemical sensing techniques in the fields of application and by broader distribution of knowledge. The main topics of the development will comprise the research and development of new materials for optochemical sensing and microfluidic applications, microfluidic sample handling modules, multifunctional elements, signal enhancement and innovative detection systems. SAMOSS will create a European Centre of Excellence for training young researchers in Biosensor Research and Development suited for Applications in Medicine, Food and Beverage Technologies as well as Environmental issues. Through well trained researchers SAMOSS will provide widely skilled personnel for a) the European Biosensor Research in Academia and b) the European Biosensor Industry. As a European Centre of Excellence SAMOSS will deliver a flexible and adaptable network of young researchers that is capable to accomplish the European needs in research and development of new, innovative biosensors for food and beverage analysis, environmental analysis and health care. Thus they will be well trained to become future team leaders in these research and development fields, whether in the domain of academia or in the private sector.