RECoVER (Rapid European SARS-CoV-2 Emergency Research response) is a comprehensive research response to the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak addressing the most urgent questions for patient and public health level interventions. RECoVER originates from partners of the EU Framework 7 (FP7) funded PREPARE project (Platform for European Preparedness Against (Re-) emerging Epidemics. In RECoVER, we will address these urgent questions in a comprehensive, multidisciplinary and interacting set of research response activities, combing (i) clinical studies in primary and hospital care, (ii) epidemiological studies and modelling, and (iii) clinical biological studies. The proposed studies complement ongoing research in China, addressing key knowledge gaps and patient-cohort questions relevant to the European population. The research proposed includes essential needs for preparedness and response, even if circulation of the virus in Europe will be limited. RECoVER will inform future research response efforts to further strengthen Europe’s and global clinical research preparedness to future emerging infectious diseases.