Key Takeaways

-The European Commission is set to establish a fresh unit with the primary mandate of formulating directives for the utilization of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of science. The forthcoming restructuring of the Directorate General for Research and Innovation, DG RTD, is said to include this initiative.

– A new research commissioner, a staff reshuffle at the Commission and a potential breakthrough in the long-running stalemate over the UK association to Horizon Europe are on the cards. Check some points to track European Research and Innovation policy agenda this autumn.

– Maroš Šefčovič, the new leader of the EU’s Green Deal, is maintaining the bloc’s climate aspirations without further escalation. He is adopting a similar stance to his predecessor, Frans Timmermans, navigating a rising political resistance to certain aspects of the EU’s recent environmentally focused regulations.

– Historically excluded from the European Union’s research initiatives due to their initial educational focus, Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) are now gaining traction as EU-funded research emphasizes policy alignment and market relevance. UAS have gradually expanded into research activities and are actively contributing to Horizon Europe.

Horizon Europe

Commission’s research directorate to develop a new artificial intelligence in science policy

The European Commission is set to establish a fresh unit with the primary mandate of formulating directives for the utilization of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the realm of science. The forthcoming restructuring of the Directorate General for Research and Innovation, DG RTD, is said to include this initiative, as stated by Science Business.

In addition to devising a novel policy governing the incorporation of AI to enhance productivity in scientific pursuits while safeguarding its integrity, the newly formed unit, labelled as ‘E4: Industry 5.0 and AI in science,’ will assume the responsibility of enacting an action plan aligned with the Industry 5.0 framework. This model strives to empower workers, fostering improved and swifter performance within a “sustainable, human-centric, and resilient European industry” framework.

Guidelines for the deployment of generative AI in scientific applications will be developed by Unit E4 in collaboration with members of the Commission’s Scientific Advice Mechanism.

Back to school: what’s on the European research and innovation policy agenda this autumn

A new research commissioner, a staff reshuffle at the Commission and a potential breakthrough in the long-running stalemate over the UK association to Horizon Europe are on the cards.

Science Business provides the following key points to keep track of:

1. New Commissioner in Charge of Research and Innovation:

   – Bulgaria’s nominee Iliana Ivanova will assume the role in September.

   – Must undergo a joint hearing before the European Parliament’s industry and culture committees on 5 September.

   – Focus on managing the underfunded Horizon Europe program and maintaining balance between bottom-up and policy-driven research.

2. UK Horizon Association:

   – Ongoing negotiations between UK and EU regarding participation in Horizon Europe.

   – The decision lies with UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

   – The terms of the deal, especially “automatic correction” for compensation, are still under discussion.

3. Changes in Commission’s R&I Directorate:

   – Director General Marc Lemaître plans significant reorganization in the Directorate-General for Research and Innovation (RTD).

   – Focus on policy and design of funding programs, with staff cuts and realignment of units.

4. More Funding for Critical Technologies:

   – Proposed €10 billion Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) fund.

   – Boosts the European Innovation Council (EIC) with an additional €2.6 billion.

   – Aims to enhance Accelerator program for start-ups, InvestEU, Innovation Fund, and dual-use technology.

5. New Public-Private Research Partnerships:

   – Commission’s proposal for ten new partnerships under Horizon Europe, combining EU, national, and private funding.

   – Encompasses areas like brain health, cultural heritage, solar power, and textiles.

   – Complements existing partnerships in strategic areas.

6. New Horizon Europe Mission:

   – Proposal for a Horizon Europe Mission centred on the New European Bauhaus initiative.

   – Aims to provide a clear focus for the New Bauhaus, which has been funded through Horizon Europe without a dedicated home.

   – Missions’ efficacy in inspiring innovation and attracting funding under scrutiny.

7. Research Careers Improvement Plan:

   – Commission’s plan to enhance working conditions for researchers.

   – Includes effective monitoring of research careers, updated charter for researchers, and a competence framework.

   – Advocates are pushing EU governments to implement the plan.

Read the full article here.

Ivanova gets ready to lock horns with MEPs

According to Science Business, Iliana Ivanova, the nominee for the position of Commissioner for Research and Innovation, has pledged to intensify endeavours aimed at securing additional funding for research through various segments of the EU budget. This commitment comes in light of the European Commission’s recognition that merely 30% of top-notch proposals within the Horizon Europe program are slated to receive funding.

This assurance is articulated within a comprehensive 38-page dossier released by the European Parliament. In this document, Ivanova offers insights into her responses to queries posed by Members of the European Parliament from the industry, research, and culture committees. These responses have been shared in anticipation of her upcoming confirmation hearing scheduled for next Tuesday (5 September). Know more here.

EU won’t ‘dilute’ ambition, says new climate chief

According to Politico, Maroš Šefčovič, the new leader of the EU’s Green Deal, is maintaining the bloc’s climate aspirations without further escalation. He is adopting a similar stance to his predecessor Frans Timmermans, navigating a rising political resistance to certain aspects of the EU’s recent environmentally focused regulations. This resistance comes from conservative politicians and certain member states, who are advocating for a slowdown or halt in the implementation of new environmental laws by Brussels. Read the full story here.

While acknowledging the importance of addressing concerns, Šefčovič remains committed to safeguarding the EU’s ongoing endeavours in this arena.

Universities of applied sciences are shaping up to boost EU research outputs

According to Science Business, as EU research framework programs increasingly prioritize innovation, Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) actively contribute to Horizon Europe. These institutions, including polytechnics, regional colleges, and technology institutes that were originally established for teaching, have gradually expanded into research activities.

Historically excluded from the European Union’s research initiatives due to their initial educational focus, UAS are now gaining traction as EU-funded research emphasizes policy alignment and market relevance.

However, to fully leverage their potential, these establishments require support. Marco Cavallaro, a researcher from the University of Lugano, highlights the need for targeted assistance for UAS. He explains that while these institutions are expected to engage in research and internationalization efforts, they often face limitations in terms of capacities and resources to effectively do so. Know more here.

Romania to launch new funding programme aimed at luring back researchers from abroad

The government has unveiled a fresh funding initiative targeting researchers and innovators currently based abroad but interested in returning to their home nation. This new competition aims to bolster centres of excellence and foster interdisciplinary collaborations. Bogdan Ivan, the Research Minister, asserts that this program will provide substantial financial support, amounting to “millions of euros,” for exceptional researchers both within the country and overseas. Ivan highlights the significance of this initiative in advancing innovation in Romania across various domains, including digitalization, climate, environment, health, and culture.

EIT Manufacturing announces partnership with regional business promotion agency in Austria

The regional business promotion agency, Standortagentur Tirol, has entered into a new collaborative agreement with EIT Manufacturing, to enhance assistance for startups, SMEs, and research organizations within the manufacturing sector.

Johannes Hunschofsky, the Managing Director of EIT Manufacturing East, expressed pride in the partnership’s ability to support and connect Tyrolean enterprises at a European level. Hunschofsky emphasized that Standortagentur Tirol plays a pivotal role in propelling innovation within the region. The affiliation with EIT Manufacturing is anticipated to provide additional avenues for manufacturing companies to cultivate and implement innovative solutions.

Research & Innovation

EU Digital Markets Act and Digital Services Act explained

As reported by the European Parliament News, two significant pieces of legislation poised to reshape the digital landscape were approved. Get familiarized with the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act, both set to bring about substantial changes.

Focused on reigning in big tech practices, the Digital Markets Act’s primary objective is to establish an equitable competitive environment for digital enterprises, irrespective of their scale. This regulation will establish explicit guidelines, a set of “dos” and “don’ts,” designed to prevent major platforms from imposing unfair terms on both businesses and consumers.

Meanwhile, the Digital Services Act aims to empower individuals with greater control over their online experiences. Users will receive enhanced transparency regarding the basis for content recommendations, with the option to opt for non-profiled content. Notably, targeted advertising for minors and the utilization of sensitive data such as sexual orientation, religion, or ethnicity will be prohibited. Know more here.

Research Data Alliance fosters cross-disciplinary, global data sharing

In accordance with details from Science Business, the Research Data Alliance (RDA) has embarked on an initiative named the Global Open Research Commons (GORC). This initiative has been set in motion through an RDA interest group and a corresponding working group.

The primary objective of GORC is to facilitate seamless access to top-tier interoperable research outputs and services.

GORC’s overarching goal revolves around orchestrating worldwide efforts for the advancement of open science platforms. This includes initiatives like the European Open Science Cloud (EOSC), the Africa Open Science Platform, and the Australian Research Data Commons. Ultimately, GORC seeks to establish comprehensive accessibility to diverse research artifacts, encompassing metadata, publications, and software resources.

Latvia to overhaul PhDs and academic careers

According to Science Business, Latvia is gearing up to enhance the conditions for PhD students and academics, addressing crucial weaknesses in its research landscape. The nation’s deficiency in the number of PhDs and unattractive pathways for academic careers has led to challenges in replenishing retiring educators, hindering overall research progress.

Anticipated legislation, scheduled for autumn implementation, seeks to rectify this situation. Notably, the legislation will introduce state salaries of at least €1,000 per month for PhD students, replacing the previous scholarship-based system. This salary enhancement will be supplemented by a requirement for universities to contribute a comparable amount through active participation in research projects.

Furthermore, a key shift involves aligning PhD students with specific research initiatives, ensuring their direct involvement in research and development activities right from the commencement of their studies. Know more here.

To tackle wildfires, researchers in Europe team up with frontline forces

The European Union aims to mitigate the increasing risks posed by wildfires by harnessing the capabilities of satellites, artificial intelligence, and uncrewed aerial vehicles. The recent Biguglia exercise employed a smoke bomb to mimic the ignition of a fire, while a comprehensive data network was used to activate swift response measures.

According to Horizon Magazine, this initiative engaged a force comprising 1,300 firefighters dedicated to safeguarding a population in this specific region of Corsica – the fourth largest island in the Mediterranean – which swells to about 400,000 during the summer months.

Michael Pelissier, a firefighter involved in the trial, commented, “The initial demonstration on Corsica yielded highly positive results.” Operating under the framework of the EU’s SAFERS project, the primary focus lies in leveraging satellites and artificial intelligence to furnish vital information capable of preserving lives and curbing ecological harm.

Clothing manufacturers aim to get fashionable with greener practices

As reported by Horizon Magazine, a rising trend in Europe involves the creation of clothes from recycled textiles, shedding light on novel prospects for businesses while diminishing the ecological impact of the fashion sector. The New Cotton Project, a research venture funded by the European Union, has garnered attention for its efforts to enhance the sustainability of the fashion industry by upcycling discarded textiles into fresh apparel. Initially slated for a three-year duration, this initiative has been extended by six months, concluding in March 2024. Central to its ethos is the concept of a “circular economy,” wherein products are repaired, reused, and recycled.

Paula Sarsama, who oversees the New Cotton Project and holds the position of program manager at the Infinited Fiber Company in Espoo, explained, “Our aim is to demonstrate the viability of a circular economy for textiles within the European context.” The project employs the recycling technology developed by the company to achieve this objective.

The top 18 centres of trustworthy artificial intelligence research

As reported by Science Business, a technology tracking entity based in the United States has identified that the European Union hosts three out of the globe’s top 18 hubs for credible artificial intelligence (AI) research.

The term “trustworthy AI” predominantly encompasses investigations aimed at rendering AI systems comprehensible, impartial, dependable, secure, and transparent. With AI swiftly evolving, there’s an escalating demand from policymakers, corporations, and the public for heightened research efforts in this realm.

The Emerging Technology Observatory, a project situated at Georgetown University, recently conducted an analysis to pinpoint the locations where this specific type of AI research is actively being pursued.

Six online courses to boost your skills and knowledge

The European Research Executive Agency announced exclusive online courses funded by the EU

You can learn the art of science communication in the face of disinformation with the TRESCA project. You can also Become part of the circular textile revolution with New Cotton’s platform, addressing the urgent need for sustainability in fashion.

For researchers, DocEnhance offers essential transferable skills, whether in academia or beyond. MATILDE examines the impact of migration on remote areas, highlighting its potential to revive rural regions.

Join the HSbooster Training Academy to lead the way in research standardization. Delve into the intersection of religion and radicalization through GREASE’s Massive Open Online Courses, gaining insights and skills to prevent extremism.

News from INESC

Improving the performance of databases: INESC TEC research presented at international conference

According to the INESC TEC magazine, Nuno Faria, a researcher at INESC TEC, has developed a flexible and user-transparent solution known as Multi-Record Values (MRVs) to enhance the performance of transactional databases. This solution shows promise in significantly improving system performance. Transactional databases often face challenges from update hotspots, leading to conflicts and resulting in delays, wasted time, and reduced performance.

The solution, detailed in the article “MRVs: Enforcing Numeric Invariants in Parallel Updates to Hotspots with Randomized Splitting,” was presented at the 2023 ACM SIGMOD/PODS conference, a highly regarded event in the field of data management, held in June in Seattle, USA. This conference attracted over a thousand participants from academia and industry, with dedicated sessions for both sectors. Read the full story here.

News from INESC institutes

Improving the performance of databases: INESC TEC research presented at international conference

According to the INESC TEC magazine, Nuno Faria, a researcher at INESC TEC, has developed a flexible and user-transparent solution known as Multi-Record Values (MRVs) to enhance the performance of transactional databases. This solution shows promise in significantly improving system performance. Transactional databases often face challenges from update hotspots, leading to conflicts and resulting in delays, wasted time, and reduced performance.

The solution, detailed in the article “MRVs: Enforcing Numeric Invariants in Parallel Updates to Hotspots with Randomized Splitting,” was presented at the 2023 ACM SIGMOD/PODS conference, a highly regarded event in the field of data management, held in June in Seattle, USA. This conference attracted over a thousand participants from academia and industry, with dedicated sessions for both sectors. Read the full story here.

Job Opportunities

– INESC TEC has 51 vacancies in different work areas, such as Mobile Robotics, Computer Science, and more. Find more at INESCTEC website and via LinkedIn

– INESC MN is hiring a Clean Room Process Engineer. More info

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

– INESC Coimbra has announced a PhD position on 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

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

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.

– 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

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

NOVEMBER

– 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

DECEMBER

– 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

– 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.