The mission of the European Academy of Surface Technology (EAST) is to promote Europe-wide science, research, training and education in the field of surface technology and related areas in order to contribute to the integration, understanding and friendship between European people and individuals.

Among other actions to fulfil the mission, EAST organises the annual EAST Forum conference. With the purpose to create synergy rather than competition, the EAST Forum is most often integrated with other relevant scientific events. This year, EAST Forum was integrated with the traditional biennial Pulse Plating Symposium in Vienna. This, the 9th Pulse Plating Symposium, took place on 5th to 6th of March in Vienna, Austria. A report of this event is featured elsewhere in this issue of Transactions. 1 EAST also held its annual members meeting in connection with the event.

A highlight at this recent EAST Forum was the annual ceremony for the Schwäbisch Gmünd Prize for Young Scientists.