The U-GENE project, funded by the 7th Framework Programme of the European Commission, aimed to investigate the prevalence of uncoupling protein one genetic polymorphisms and their impact on predisposition to CMD increase knowledge on adipose tissue plasticity and human thermogenesis. The U-GENE partners boast an outstanding group of researchers, extensive collaboration and knowledge transfer networks, a large number of relevant publications, as well as very active participation in research programs funded by the European Commission. Moreover, the partners’ experience and specialisation in CMD research, their extensive experience in networks of excellence and international collaborations, and their broad infrastructures provided the level of quality required to transform the U-GENE joint exchange programme into a successful multi-national network of excellence for CMD research.