Key Takeaways

– EARTO has outlined six priorities for the next EU research programmme (FP10), focusing on integrated programming, budget stability, programme management, implementation improvement, technology infrastructure pilots, and simplification for beneficiaries.

– University leaders from the UK and Germany are discussing the reinstatement of collaborative efforts in Horizon Europe, but full cooperation may take up to five years to restore. In the case of Switzerland, universities and researchers have expressed concern over potential delays that could extend access to Horizon Europe until at least 2025.

– The European Parliament’s vote has paved the way for Iliana Ivanova’s appointment as the new commissioner for Research, Innovation, and Education, pending approval by member states.

– In her State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled initiatives to boost AI start-ups’ access to high-performance computers, called for a global body to assess AI impacts, and promoted the pillars of “guardrails, governance, and guiding innovation.” She also announced plans for a ‘European Wind Power package,’ an anti-subsidy investigation into Chinese electric vehicles, and the launch of the Critical Raw Materials Club for self-sufficiency.

– Have you listened to the latest episode of the INESCTEC podcast? The second episode of the new season explores the influence of AI on the healthcare sector. It is available on Spotify and Youtube.

Horizon Europe

Last chance to become a Regional Innovation Valley – matchmaking map available

Applications are open until 18 September.

The European Commission has published a matchmaking map highlighting European regions that have expressed their interest to become a Regional Innovation Valley. The map aims to help to identify relevant partners to strengthen and advance European innovation ecosystems.

The matchmaking map aims to help interested regions to identify relevant partners willing to strengthen and advance European innovation ecosystems, by facilitating matchmaking and interconnections among regions across Europe. More information here.

EARTO inputs to the European Research Area and Innovation Committee

EARTO has published its position paper on EARTO Inputs to ERAC on the next European Research & Innovation Framework Programme (FP10) in view of the European Research Area and Innovation Committee (ERAC) TF on FP10 meeting, which was held on Monday 11 September 2023 with the participation of RD&I Stakeholders including EARTO Secretariat. They outlined six strategic issues to consider in discussion about the next big EU research programme, due to start in 2028.  They are:

1. Directionality for Integrated Programming
2. Tackling RD&I Budget Instability
3. Managing EU RD&I Programmes
4. Improving FP Implementation
5. Launching Pilots on Technology Infrastructures
6. Simplifying FPs for Beneficiaries

Challenges ahead as other nations seek access to EU’s Horizon R&D programme

According to Science Business, while the UK successfully negotiated access to the EU’s Horizon research programme, several other nations, including Canada, Japan, South Korea, and Switzerland, are also seeking participation. However, the path to association for these countries may face challenges due to local political and budgetary considerations.

In the case of Switzerland, as reported on Science Business, political disputes with the EU have delayed the process, with formal negotiations for Horizon Europe association yet to commence. Swiss universities and researchers have expressed concern over potential delays that could extend access to Horizon Europe until at least 2025. Switzerland’s participation is contingent on broader political discussions between the country and the EU, which might be affected by the changing Commission after European elections in the coming year.

While these nations eagerly anticipate their turn to join the program, they must navigate potential obstacles in the form of political disagreements and budgetary constraints. The EU’s flexibility in accommodating these countries into Horizon Europe remains uncertain, and the delay in negotiations during the UK-EU talks may serve as a precedent for potential delays in agreements with other nations. Know more here.

Uncertainty over working with the UK remains despite Horizon Europe deal

University leaders from the UK and Germany are convening in Hamburg to deliberate on reestablishing collaborative efforts. However, one of them cautions that it might require up to five years to fully reinstate cooperation. The president of the University of Hamburg has expressed concerns that German academics remain uncertain about the seamless functioning of collaboration with their UK counterparts in Horizon Europe. This uncertainty prompts institutions to reassure their researchers about the full reintegration of UK partners into the program. Read more in Science Business.

European Parliament clears path for Iliana Ivanova’s Commissioner appointment

A parliamentary vote has paved the way for Iliana Ivanova’s appointment as a commissioner. The formal confirmation of Iliana Ivanova as the new commissioner for research, innovation, and education by member states is expected to occur next week, as stated by Science Business. Ivanova is now very close to securing her EU commissioner position, as the European Parliament overwhelmingly voted in her favour. Out of 600 votes cast, 522 MEPs supported her appointment, 51 abstained, and 27 voted against it in a secret ballot.

Once EU member states approve her appointment at the General Affairs council next Tuesday, the Bulgarian candidate will assume the role of commissioner for research, innovation, and education. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen congratulated Ivanova on the vote’s outcome and expressed readiness to welcome her aboard. Von der Leyen noted that Ivanova’s experience, ideas, and enthusiasm would be beneficial to the College as a whole. Read more here.

EIB provides €15 million loan to crowd farming for sustainable agriculture innovation

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has entered into a €15 million venture debt loan agreement, supported by the InvestEU program, with CrowdFarming, an online platform connecting European farmers directly with consumers. This financing from EIB will contribute to the expansion of CrowdFarming’s research, development, and innovation (RDI) efforts. It will enable the improvement of their digital marketplace and the creation of tools aimed at advancing sustainable farming practices throughout Europe, ultimately leading to a more sustainable and equitable food supply chain. Know more here.

Two new European Partnership calls open: Aquatic Ecosystem Services and Nature-Based Solutions Research

Funding partners from 30 countries have launched a Joint Transnational Call for research and innovation projects focused on “Aquatic Ecosystem Services” as part of the European Partnership Water4All. This initiative aims to enhance water security and aligns with global, EU, and national water management policies. The call is open from September 12, 2023, to spring 2028.

Additionally, Biodiversa+ has opened the BiodivNBS Call for Transnational Research Proposals on “Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) for biodiversity, human well-being, and transformative change.” This call seeks to support research on biodiversity and understand tipping points, trade-offs, and underlying mechanisms related to Nature-based Solutions.

Research & Innovation

Ursula von der Leyen proposes global AI panel and fast-tracks access to supercomputers

In her State of the Union address, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled an initiative to grant AI start-ups swifter access to Europe’s high-performance computers. As stated on Science Business, she called for the establishment of a global body, akin to the IPCC, to assess the impacts of AI, emphasizing the pillars of “guardrails, governance, and guiding innovation.” Von der Leyen also encouraged voluntary adherence to the EU’s forthcoming AI Act by collaborating with AI companies, while warning of a “narrowing window of opportunity” to steer AI technology responsibly.

Furthermore, she highlighted AI’s potential to enhance healthcare, productivity, and combat climate change. Von der Leyen urged the EU to harmonize with global AI standards and stressed the need for strategic autonomy in critical technologies. She announced plans for a ‘European Wind Power package’ to bolster clean energy and an anti-subsidy investigation into low-priced Chinese electric vehicles to prevent unfair competition. The EU’s quest for self-sufficiency in critical raw materials was also addressed with the launch of the Critical Raw Materials Club. Read more here

EU Aims for stronger Research and Innovation partnerships with Africa

As stated on Science Business, Africa is emerging as a central focus for the EU’s foreign policy, with research and innovation playing a pivotal role in bolstering this relationship. However, achieving deeper cooperation demands increased investment and comprehensive strategies. The EU’s global agenda, notably the €250 billion Global Gateway project, underscores the significance of fortifying ties with Africa. While the political will exist, more is needed. Proposals like the European Research Alliance for Sustainable Development are on the table, and the success of the Arise Project for early career researchers is evident. Yet, both the EU and African nations must allocate more resources and coordinate efforts to fully harness the potential of R&I collaboration.

European Commission has opened a call for Experts on Economic and Societal Impact of R&I sought

The Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (DG RTD) has opened a call for applications for experts to join the Economic and Societal Impact of Research and Innovation (ESIR3) expert group.

The experts’ role will be to support DG RTD in developing an evidence-based, transformative R&I policy that drives sustainability transitions in Europe.

The group is made up of 16 members and its mandate will run from 2024-25. The deadline for applications is 30 September 2023. All details can be found here

Portugal sets up €8M defence research programme

The Portuguese government has launched a new €8 million six-year research and innovation programme for defence. 

According to Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT), the programme will deliver joint research projects, doctoral education, and advanced training as it boosts coordination between the country’s armed forces and research centres.  

The move comes as countries around Europe bolster their defence funding in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine, including upping targeted research and innovation spending. 

More such partnerships are to follow to stimulate innovation and development in other government-supported sectors in the country. Read more in the above link.

EU Prioritizes Science Communication to Address Societal Challenges

According to the Horizon Magazine, the European Union is actively promoting science communication to assist democracies in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change, pandemics, and artificial intelligence. Effective science communication involves conveying scientific concepts and discoveries in ways that engage the public and align with societal values. This emphasis on relatable, everyday language and storytelling is a key component of the EU’s “Pact for Research and Innovation in Europe.”

In recent years, the EU has initiated several research projects dedicated to enhancing science communication. The latest initiative is the “European Competence Centre for Science Communication,” established through the COALESCE research project, which commenced in April 2023 and is slated to continue until March 2027. Read more here.

News from INESC

Discover the influence of AI Chat GPT in healthcare: a deep dive into ethical concerns and the future.

The latest episode of the #INESCTEC podcast series, “Ciência e Sociedade,” delves into the profound influence of AI on the healthcare sector, specifically examining the case of Chat GPT. Join our expert guests as they dissect the current and future impact of AI, explore the ethical dimensions of AI-driven chatbots in healthcare, and shed light on the challenges posed by AI in this critical industry. Listen on Spotify or watch the videocast on Youtube.

INESC TEC has announced an international conference dedicated to management of technology

From July 8 to 11, 2024, Porto will host the 33rd edition of the IAMOT Conference (International Association for Management of Technology). Organised by INESC TEC and the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Porto (FEUP), this prominent event in the field of technology management and innovation will bring to the forefront the challenges and opportunities related to social, environmental, and technological aspects of organizations that have emerged in recent years. The submission period for articles is already underway. Know more at the website of the event.

Job Opportunities

– INESC TEC has 26 vacancies in different work areas, such as Mobile Robotics, Computer Science, and more. Find more at INESCTEC website and via LinkedIn

– INESC MN is seeking a dedicated individual to join its team as a Research Staff member in the area of Lab on Chip and Microfluid System. More info

– INOV is hiring a Analyst/Programmer and a Facilities Manager. More info

– INESC Coimbra has announced a PhD position Behavioral Operations Research and multi objective optimization in residential energy management systems. More info

Events & Training workshops

SEPTEMBER

– 2nd Science|Business Sector Day: Green Deal & Climate – The road to net-zero industry. 18-19 September 2023, 14:00 – 12:30 CET, Brussels. Members only. More info.

– Workshop on AI-assisted Methods and Tools for ECS Engineering Efficiency. 20 September, 14:00- 17:30 (CEST). Register here.

– The Twin Transition Century: The role of digital research for a successful Green Transition of Society. 21 September, 16:30 – 18:30 (CEST), Brussels. Register here.

– Science|Business events – Fair access to resources: Looking to 2030 and beyond”, 26 September, 9:00-14:00 CET, Prague and online. Register here.

– European Chips Act Design Platform: Online workshop for potential users. 26 September 2023, online. Register here.

– Workshop on Advanced Packaging and 3D Heterogeneous Integration for RF/mmWave Applications. 27 September, 14:00- 16:30 (CEST), online. Register here.

-Horizon Europe – Cluster 6: “Food, bioeconomy, natural resources, agriculture and environment”. 27-28 September 2023. More info.

– 2023 European Researchers Night, 29 September 2023. The event will take place in 26 countries and will be online. Find more here.

OCTOBER

– EU Industry Days 2023, 4-6 October 2023, Málaga, Spain. Register here.

– Horizon Implementation Day: Finding opportunities and submitting a proposal in Horizon Europe. 5 October 2023, 8:30 CET. Register here.

– European Week of Regions and Cities 2023. 9 – 12 October 2023, 09:00 – 18:00 CET, Brussels. More info.

– Science for Policy in Europe Conference. 10-11 October 2023. 09:00 – 18:00 CET, Brussels and online. Register here.

– The Widening: Founding Group Meeting. 10 October 2023 (TBC), 10:00 – 13:00 CET, Brussels. Members only. More info

– EARTO Policy Event and Innovation Awards Ceremony, 11 October 2023 at 13.30-16.15 (CET), Brussels. Register here.

– Making waves: Is international R&I bringing a true blue economy within reach? 12 October 2023, 14:00 – 16:45 CET, Brussels. Members only. More info

– Workshop on Software Defined Vehicles – a Holistic Technology Stack. 12 October 2023, online. Register here.

– Horizon Implementation Day: Grant Agreement Preparation in Horizon Europe. 17 October 2023. 8:30 CET. Register here.

– Horizon Europe Cluster 2 – Culture, Creativity and Inclusive Society Info Day. 18 October 2023. 8:30 CET, Brussels. More info.

– ETSI Security Conference, from 16 to 19 October 2023, in ETSI, Sophia Antipolis, France. More info.

– Horizon Europe – Cluster 1: Culture, Creativity & Inclusive Society. Info Day. 18 October. More info

– Conference by the European Commission – DG RTD: Making research results work for society. 26 October 2023, 09:30 – 16:15 (CEST), Brussels and online. Register here.

NOVEMBER

– Luxembourg Internet Days: Network Security & Resilience. 7-8 November, Luxembourg. More info here.

– 3rd Science|Business Sector Day: Health & Life Sciences – Future-proofing medicines. 13-14 November 2023. 14:00 – 12:30 CET, Brussels. By invitation only. More info

– Enterprise Europe Network Annual Conference 2023, 15 November 2023, 09:00 CET – 17 November 2023, 18:00 CET, Barakaldo, Spain. More info.

– Horizon Europe: FP10 and Preparing for the 2024 Annual Conference. 28 November 2023. 15:00 – 17:00 CET. Online. Members only. More info

– Behave 2023, the 7th European Conference on Behaviour and Energy Efficiency by the European Energy Network (EnR). 28-29 November. The event will take place in Maastricht, the Netherlands. The theme of this year’s conference will be ‘Scaling-up Behaviour Change in the light of the energy and climate crises. More info.

DECEMBER

– 10th Symposium on European Civil Security Research – organised by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research. 5-6 December, 11:30- 18:00 (CEST), Brussels and online. Register here.

– The Widening: 2023 Annual Conference. 06 December 2023 (TBC). 13:30 – 17:30 CET. Place TBA. Public event. More info

2024

– Annual Network Conference. 06 February 2024. 09:00-17:30 CET. Brussels. Public event. More info

– 8th World Conference on Research Integrity, 2-5 June 2024, at Megaron Athens International Conference Centre (MAICC), Athens. Travel Grant applications open on 26 June 2023. More info

– Conference: IAMOT – International Association for Management of Technology 2024, 8-11 July 2024. Porto, Portugal. Organised by INESC TEC and FEUP. More info