The Insider

In this final episode of the Insider podcast for 2024, Ricardo Migueis reflects on the transformative forces shaping European research and innovation, focusing on the evolution of research infrastructures, the critical role of technology infrastructures, and the impact of AI.

He discusses the need for alignment with European policy priorities, the ethical dimensions of AI, and the importance of addressing the capacity divide across regions.

The episode emphasizes the necessity of inclusivity, adaptability, and collaboration in building a resilient and competitive research ecosystem for the future.

Takeaways

• 2024 has been transformative for European research and innovation.
• Research infrastructures are evolving into dynamic ecosystems.
• Technology infrastructures are critical enablers of innovation.
• AI has emerged as the accelerator of innovation.
• We need to address the capacity divide across Europe.
• Public-private partnerships drive innovation.
• We must align AI initiatives with FP10 priorities.
• Inclusivity is crucial for research and innovation.
• We need to create a resilient and competitive ecosystem.
• The interplay between research and technology infrastructures offers opportunities for integrated ecosystems.

Chapters

00:00: Transformative Forces in European Research and Innovation

08:15: The Role of Technology Infrastructures in Innovation

16:10: AI as an Accelerator of Innovation

23:52: Addressing the Capacity Divide in Europe

In this episode of the Insider Podcast, Ricardo Migueis and Pirita Lindholm discuss the critical role of regions in shaping European research and innovation. They explore the challenges and opportunities within the innovation landscape, emphasizing the importance of place-based approaches and collaboration among diverse stakeholders. The conversation highlights the mission of ARIN, the significance of grassroots initiatives, and the need for effective frameworks to support regional ecosystems in addressing societal challenges and enhancing competitiveness on a global scale. In this conversation, Ricardo Migueis and Pirita Lindholm discuss the critical themes of resilience in renewable energy, the importance of digital sovereignty, and the interconnected challenges faced by regions in Europe. They explore the need for coherent policies that support green and digital transformations, the role of innovation ecosystems, and the significance of skills development in bridging the innovation divide. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of balancing local strengths with EU priorities and preparing for future discussions on these pressing issues.

Takeaways

• Regions play a crucial role in European research and innovation.
• A place-based approach is essential for effective innovation.
• ARIN connects over 120 regional organizations to foster collaboration.
• Diversity in regional capacities presents both challenges and opportunities.
• Fragmentation in research and innovation can hinder progress.
• Collaboration across ecosystems is vital for addressing complex challenges.
• Measuring the impact of ecosystems is necessary for accountability.
• Grassroots innovations can influence European policy discussions.
• The future of FP10 must prioritize regional engagement.
• Local voices are essential in shaping EU research and innovation policies. Building resilience in renewable energy is essential.
• Green and digital transformations are priorities for regions.
• Digital technology is crucial for accelerating the green transition.
• Policy coherence is necessary for effective energy transformation.
• Multi-level governance is vital for successful strategy implementation.
• Interconnected challenges require collaborative solutions across regions.
• Widening innovation is important for non-widening regions.
• Skills development is key to addressing the innovation divide.
• Balancing local strengths with EU priorities is a significant challenge.
• Storytelling is an effective way to engage audiences in discussions.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to European Research and Innovation Challenges

03:00: The Role of Regions in Innovation Ecosystems

05:10: Understanding ARIN's Mission and Membership

08:53: Place-Based Approaches in Research and Innovation

12:03: Navigating Diversity in Regional Innovation

14:55: Addressing Fragmentation in Research and Innovation

18:10: Collaboration Across Ecosystems

21:04: Measuring Impact of Ecosystems

23:59: Closing the Innovation Gap with Global Competitors

26:48: Grassroots Innovations and Policy Influence

30:10: The Future of FP10 and Regional Engagement

33:02: The Importance of Local Voices in EU Policy

35:55: Challenges Facing European Research and Innovation

47:09: Building Resilience in Energy and Technology

50:01: Understanding Digital Sovereignty

53:21: Interconnected Challenges in Regional Development

54:48: Widening Innovation and Skills Development

58:10: Balancing Local Strengths with EU Priorities

01:03:33: Preparing for Future Discussions

The Cyber Frontier: Europe’s Digital Defense in Action

In this episode, we look into the high-stakes world of cybersecurity in Europe, where every click matters and every byte counts. From the escalating sophistication of ransomware to the invisible power of social engineering, this conversation pulls back the curtain on the challenges reshaping Europe’s digital future.

Here’s the big picture:

• How geopolitical tensions are fueling cyber threats like never before.
• The uneven playing field of resilience across EU member states—and why it matters.
• The dual nature of AI: a game-changer for security and a new target for attackers.
• The looming risks of quantum computing to today’s cryptographic standards.
• Why collaboration between research and industry is no longer optional.

We’re also breaking down the EU’s NIS2 Directive and its role in fostering innovation, while exploring critical areas of research like IoT security and Zero Trust architectures.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a future-proof digital ecosystem—or why strategic autonomy in cybersecurity is key to Europe’s survival, this is your episode.

Get ready to rethink cybersecurity from every angle. Because the future isn’t just about defense, it’s about staying one step ahead.

Meet the Guest: Nelson Escravana

With over 20 years of hands-on experience in cybersecurity innovation, Nelson Escravana is a force to be reckoned with. He leads the Cybersecurity R&D Unit at INOV, coordinating groundbreaking projects in offensive security, intrusion detection, and data security.

Nelson’s resume is a masterclass in impact:

• Over 20 EU and national research projects, including the prestigious H2020 IRIS initiative focused on IoT and AI security.
• Critical contributions to organizations like ESA, NATO, and the Portuguese Government.
• Strategic leadership on H2020 projects like SECUR-ED, ECOSSIAN, and SPARTA.

Takeaways

• Cybersecurity is a constantly evolving field that impacts all aspects of life.
• Ransomware attacks are becoming more targeted and sophisticated.
• Social engineering plays a significant role in cybersecurity incidents.
• Geopolitical tensions are increasing the frequency and severity of cyber attacks.
• Disparities in cybersecurity investment among EU member states can weaken collective resilience.
• The EU is making strides in cybersecurity research and innovation, but challenges remain.
• AI presents both opportunities and threats in the cybersecurity landscape.
• Quantum computing poses risks to current cryptographic standards but also offers new security solutions.
• Building a future-proof digital ecosystem requires investment in skills and awareness.
• Creating an environment that fosters innovation is crucial for cybersecurity advancement in Europe. Protecting AI is a top priority in cybersecurity.
• Early detection and threat sharing are crucial.
• Collaboration between research and industry is essential.
• Specific industry problems should drive research efforts.
• IoT security is a growing concern due to interconnected devices.
• AI cybersecurity requires serious attention and controls.
• NIS2 directive will push companies to comply with cybersecurity standards.
• Strategic autonomy in cybersecurity technologies is necessary for the EU.
• Investment in certification programs is vital for trust in products.
• Balancing EU values with competitiveness is a significant challenge.

Hear all in about Quantum Computing: Click here

Welcome to this week’s episode of The Insider Roundup, where we delve into the pressing issues shaping Europe’s research and innovation landscape. Today, we tackle a timely and complex question: What would a second Trump presidency mean for European research and innovation (R&I)? As Trump returns to office, shifts in U.S. priorities are expected, potentially impacting Europe’s strategic, technological, and economic goals in critical ways.

We'll explore the legacy of Trump’s first term, from environmental rollbacks to shifts in science policy, and consider the impacts of Biden’s collaborative agenda. Then, we’ll analyze five key areas where Trump 2.0 could disrupt R&I: climate science, AI, defense tech, health research, and STEM inclusivity. Alongside this analysis, we’ll discuss possible strategies for Europe to remain resilient and retain leadership, even amid potential transatlantic policy shifts.

Tune in for a comprehensive look at how Europe’s R&I landscape might need to adapt to this new political reality. Don’t forget to subscribe and catch our weekly Insider Roundup newsletter for all things European R&I!

Last Episode: https://pod.co/the-insider/inside-the-eus-research-innovation-engine-with-carla-matias

Read Newsletter: https://hub.inesc.pt/12-11-2024-what-does-trump-2-0-mean-for-ri/

Ever wondered how European research and innovation policies are shaped from within? This episode of The Insider brings you right to the heart of EU policy-making with Carla Matias dos Santos, Research and Space Councillor at the Permanent Representation of Portugal to the EU in Brussels.

Carla is not only an expert in her field but also a key player in representing Portugal's priorities in science, innovation, and space policy within the EU. In this episode, Carla pulls back the curtain on Brussels’ intricate world of diplomacy and decision-making, sharing her first-hand experiences and the challenges of balancing work and life in this dynamic hub.

What we covered:

🔹 Coreper's Role in Policy Shaping: Coreper, or the Committee of Permanent Representatives, is where ‘hardcore diplomacy’ happens. Carla explains how this committee sets the stage for final decisions by aligning EU-wide goals with national interests. This is where negotiations get real, and consensus is built before issues reach the Council.

🔹 EU’s Co-Decision Process: We dive deep into how the European Parliament, Commission, and Council work together under the co-decision framework to shape policies. Carla elaborates on the complexities of balancing technical expertise with the democratic voice of the EU’s citizens.

🔹 Impact of the Draghi Report and MFF: With major implications for the future of EU research funding, Carla discusses the Draghi report and potential shifts in the Multi-Annual Financial Framework (MFF). Will research and innovation maintain a standalone value in the budget, or risk being absorbed into broader competitiveness funds?

🔹 The Importance of Stakeholder Engagement: Carla sheds light on the essential role of stakeholder voices in Brussels and how Portugal advocates for a dedicated research office to enhance collaboration, share insights, and influence EU policies from the ground up.

🔹 International Collaboration and Future Challenges: We discuss why international cooperation is critical in the face of global competition and how security concerns shape collaborative policies with countries like the US and China.

Carla’s perspective highlights the dynamic shifts in the EU's strategic research agenda, the growing influence of the European Parliament, and why stakeholder participation is key to securing a strong research future.

In this episode, Ricardo Migueis discusses the implications of FP10, the EU's framework for research and innovation. He highlights the importance of balancing excellence with regional inclusivity in funding, the potential of a trust-first model for project evaluation, and the need for national contributions to meet EU budget targets. The conversation emphasizes the critical role of regional voices in shaping research policies and the necessity for cohesive efforts across all levels of governance to ensure Europe's competitiveness in innovation.

Takeaways

• FP10 is crucial for Europe's global competitiveness.
• Regional voices are essential in the funding conversation.
• Cohesion in funding is as important as excellence.
• National contributions to R&D budgets are lacking.
• A trust-first model could enhance project efficiency.
• Public research has significant social and economic impacts.
• Skills development is vital for future innovation.
• EU funds should complement, not replace, local investments.
• Balancing regional needs with high-impact projects is key.
• The future of FP10 will shape Europe's innovation landscape.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to FP10 and Its Importance

03:10: Regional Perspectives on Research Funding

06:03: The Trust-First Model and Its Implications

In this episode, we sit down with Professor Marco Piccardo, the first INESC researcher to win an ERC grant while at INESC, marking a major milestone in his professional journey. Marco shares the fascinating intersection between creativity and scientific research, drawing from his groundbreaking ERC grant-winning project, MetaPOWER. He offers a rare glimpse into the unpredictable nature of idea generation, the importance of collaboration in refining research proposals, and the critical strategies behind a successful ERC application.

Our conversation goes into both the personal and professional challenges Marco faced, shedding light on his approach to balancing the pressures of academia with the need for creative space. A key focus of this episode is "slow productivity" a concept that emphasizes sustainable, high-quality research outputs over time, which Marco argues is essential for long-term success in a demanding field like his.

In addition, we explore the role of institutional support in fostering innovative research, a factor Marco credits as crucial in his achievements. Whether you're an aspiring researcher, an academic, or simply curious about the inner workings of cutting-edge science, this episode offers valuable lessons on perseverance, planning, and the art of managing both ideas and energy in the world of research.

Key Takeaways:

• Creativity is at the heart of groundbreaking research.
• Ideas often emerge when least expected.
• Writing a successful ERC proposal demands both creativity and meticulous organization.
• MetaPOWER aims to revolutionize the way we understand laser-matter interactions.
• Crafting a compelling ERC proposal is a delicate balance between art and science.
• Long-term planning is essential for securing major research grants.
• Maintaining work-life balance remains a significant challenge in academia.
• Embracing slow productivity can improve the quality of scientific outputs.
• Institutional support plays a pivotal role in achieving research success.
• Energy management is key to sustaining long-term research efforts.

Episode Chapters:

00:00 - The Birth of Creativity: How Ideas Emerge

07:12 - Navigating the ERC Grant Application Process

10:31 - Introducing the MetaPOWER Project: Vision and Impact

17:36 - Strategic Insights for Crafting a Winning ERC Proposal

25:14 - Balancing Work and Life in the World of Research

37:45 - Future Directions for MetaPOWER: What's Next?

53:21 - The Critical Role of Institutional Support in Research Success

This episode covers the pressing issues surrounding EU research and innovation funding, highlighting the uncertainty in the funding landscape, the impact of proposed budget cuts, and the critical role of initiatives like the Marie Curie Actions. It also explores the transformative potential of blockchain technology in various sectors and emphasizes the urgent need for increased investment in research to maintain Europe's global competitiveness.

Takeaways

• The EU faces significant cuts to research funding, threatening innovation.
• Blockchain technology is moving from theory to practical applications.
• Marie Curie Actions have a proven track record in fostering research excellence.
• Increased public investment in R&I is crucial for Europe's competitiveness.
• The Draghi report calls for a 3% GDP investment in research.
• Collaboration across EU borders is essential for tackling global challenges.
• The Research Matters campaign is mobilizing support for increased funding.
• Without adequate funding, high-quality research proposals remain unfunded.
• Member states must increase their national R&I budgets to meet EU goals.
• The urgency for investment in research is echoed by various stakeholders.

Chapters

00:00: Overview of EU Research and Innovation Funding

04:12: Blockchain Technology: From Hype to Impact

07:00: Concerns Over EU R&I Funding Cuts

13:42: The Role of Marie Curie Actions in Research

19:45: Call for Increased Investment in Research

Read The Insider Newsletter here.

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In this episode we talked about the future of European research and innovation through the lens of the upcoming Framework Program, FP10. This podcast is not just about policies; it's about how strategic funding, collaboration, and academic freedom will drive Europe’s global leadership in science and technology.

We've three experts deeply involved in shaping the research landscape:

• Silvia Gomez Recio, Secretary General of YERUN, the Young European Research Universities Network
• Marta Agostinho, Executive Director of EU-LIFE, the Alliance of European Life Science Research Institutes
• Emmanuelle Gardan, Director of the Coimbra Group Brussels Office

We discussed why FP10 must remain well-funded, foster collaboration across Europe and beyond, and encourage high-risk, high-impact research that will address both current and future challenges. We’ll also explore how FP10 balances strategic direction with the freedom for researchers to innovate and tackle the unknown.

Throughout this episode, you’ll hear their perspectives on how Europe can maintain its global leadership in research and innovation, build strong research ecosystems, and enhance its global influence. From public funding priorities to the pivotal role of the European Research Council and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions, this conversation will highlight the key elements essential to FP10’s success.

Takeaways

• FP10 is a critical program that will shape Europe's future and solidify its global leadership in research and innovation.
• Collaboration is essential in research and innovation, both within Europe and with countries beyond Europe.
• FP10 should remain well-funded, open to academic freedom, and supportive of research that addresses current and future challenges.
• Public funding should focus on higher-risk, higher-impact research that the private sector cannot support. Balancing directionality and openness is crucial in the framework program
• Collaboration and engagement with international partners are essential for Europe's global influence
• The ERC and Marie Skłodowska-Curie actions are key actions for ensuring Europe's long-term leadership in research and innovation

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to FP10 and its Importance

02:12: Personal Stories: The Power of Collaboration

12:57: Solidifying Europe's Global Leadership in Research and Innovation

32:04: Addressing Directionality and Risk in FP10

41:00: Risk Culture and Knowledge Transfer

42:39: Program Managers and Justifying Investments

43:57: Flexibility and Innovation in Project Proposals

44:54: The Linear Approach to Research and Innovation

48:46: The Role of Industry in the Framework Program

51:40: Building Research and Innovation Ecosystems

01:05:36: Balancing Global Influence and Internal Priorities

01:07:48: Engaging with International Partners

01:18:46: Prioritizing the ERC and Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions

Roundup Episode: 40 Years of EU Research Funding: Lessons Learned and the Road Ahead

In this episode of the Insider Roundup, we explore the groundbreaking strides being made in European research and innovation, from advancements in quantum computing and cybersecurity to the ongoing push for diversity in science.

As Europe navigates global competition and seeks transformative change, we examine the challenges and opportunities at hand. This Roundup reflects on 40 years of EU research funding and the pivotal decisions looming on the horizon with the upcoming FP10 framework decisions that will shape Europe’s future in science and technology.

Takeaways

• The European push into quantum computing is impressive but faces challenges.
• Diversity and inclusion in science must go beyond policies to create real change.
• Cybersecurity initiatives are crucial but need proactive compliance from businesses.
• Widening participation in Horizon Europe shows promise but needs deeper integration.
• Support for Ukrainian researchers is essential for long-term integration into Europe.
• The evolution of EU research funding reflects changing global challenges.
• FP10 will need to balance fundamental research with market-driven innovation.
• Budget constraints could impact Europe's research leadership.
• The decisions made about FP10 will shape the future of European research.
• Engagement in shaping the next 40 years of EU research is crucial.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to European Research and Innovation

02:47 Quantum Computing and Semiconductor Developments

06:07 Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Science and Technology

08:57 Cybersecurity Initiatives and Challenges

12:07 Evolution of European Research Funding

17:52 Looking Ahead: FP10 and Future Challenges

Tune in now to explore the opportunities ahead!

In this episode, we discovered the pivotal role of Research and Technology Infrastructures (RTIs) play in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Our esteemed guests Claudia Pfander from Euro-BioImaging, Ed Mitchell from ESRF, Andrew Smith from Elixir, and Nuria Valls Vidal from ALBA Synchrotron, share fascinating insights into how their organizations contribute to advancing research and innovation for SMEs.

From flexible, low-barrier access routes to full support from A to Z, our panelists discuss how outreach, visibility, and orchestrators like RTOs and alumni help bridge the gap between RTIs and SMEs.

We also touch on the need for sustainable funding and effective policy frameworks to ensure long-term support for these infrastructures. Tune in for an in-depth conversation about the future of RTIs and the crucial connection between research, innovation, and industry.

Takeaways

• Research and technology infrastructures (RTIs) play a crucial role in supporting SMEs in various sectors.
• Outreach, visibility, and effective communication are essential to ensure SMEs are aware of the services provided by RTIs.
• Orchestrators, such as RTOs and alumni, play a vital role in bridging the gap between RTIs and SMEs.
• Sustainable funding is necessary to support the operations of RTIs and their engagement with SMEs. Dedicated personnel are crucial for bridging the gap between RTIs and SMEs and facilitating engagement.
• Understanding industry needs is essential for developing high-quality services and improving SME access to RTIs.
• Flexible and low-barrier access routes are necessary to facilitate SME access to RTIs.
• Policy frameworks and coordination strategies at the European level can play a significant role in enhancing SME access to RTIs.
• Provision of full support from A to Z, including access and feedback, is critical for SMEs to benefit from RTIs.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction and Fun Facts

03:00: Importance of Research and Technology Infrastructures (RTIs)

05:32: Supporting SMEs through RTIs

10:50: RTIs in Biotech: Euro-BioImaging

13:43: RTIs in Life Sciences: Elixir

20:25: RTIs in Physics: Alba Synchrotron

28:32: The Importance of Ecosystems and Orchestrators

35:18: Best Practices for Orchestrators

37:04: Sustainable Funding for RTIs

51:25: Understanding Industry Needs for Improved SME Access

59:40: Flexible and Low-Barrier Access Routes

01:03:28: Policy Frameworks and Coordination Strategies

01:07:23: Providing Full Support from A to Z

In this episode of The Insider Roundup, Ricardo explores the developments of the past 2 weeks shaping European research and innovation. We dive into the newly published Draghi report on European competitiveness, discussing its implications for technological sovereignty and industrial strategy as well as how we see it from the point of view of INESC TEC position paper on FP10. We also examine the proposal for a CERN for AI and its potential to position Europe as a leader in artificial intelligence. Additionally, we highlight critical advancements in clean energy research and celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of INESC MN’s Marco Piccardo, who recently secured an ERC Starting Grant for his innovative work in laser-plasma interactions. Tune in as we trace the pulse of Europe's research landscape and its trajectory for the future.

Key takeaways

• The EU is undergoing significant changes in research and innovation governance.
• The Draghi report has sparked discussions on technological sovereignty.
• Innovation procurement in Europe is gaining traction but remains underutilized.
• Clean energy research is critical for Europe's energy security.
• A centralized institution for AI could enhance Europe's capabilities.
• The need for public investment in AI is emphasized.
• Concerns exist about the centralization of AI research stifling innovation.
• Individual achievements in research contribute to collective progress.
• The importance of collaboration in addressing today's challenges is highlighted.
• Future breakthroughs depend on strategic investments in research and innovation.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Recent Developments in Research and Innovation

03:43

Key Political Developments in EU Research and Innovation

05:11

Analysis of the Draghi Report and Its Implications

07:26

Clean Energy Research and Innovation Strategies

09:46

The Concept of a CERN for AI

17:59

Challenges and Critiques of the CERN for AI Concept

18:57

Highlighting Individual Achievements in Research

In this episode of The Insider, we explore one of Europe’s most ambitious digital initiatives, the EU’s "Important Project of Common European Interest" (IPCEI-CIS) for cloud and edge computing. This project is reshaping the future of digital infrastructure across the continent, advancing Europe’s digital sovereignty, and redefining the cloud computing landscape. Joining us is Dr. Alberto Martí, Vice President of Open Source Innovation at OpenNebula Systems and Chair of the Industry Facilitation Group for this major initiative.

Together, we’ll delve into the structure, objectives, and strategic significance of the IPCEI-CIS, highlighting how it's more than just a technological effort, it's about creating a federated, secure, and sustainable cloud infrastructure that can reduce Europe’s dependence on non-European providers. We’ll unpack the four key workstreams driving this initiative, including federated edge computing, interoperability, and cybersecurity, and discuss the challenges and breakthroughs in these critical areas.

Through insights from Dr. Martí, we’ll reveal the collaborative efforts of 12 member states, research institutions, and companies working together to bolster Europe’s competitive position in the global digital economy. The episode will also explore the governance and contributions of these stakeholders, providing a comprehensive look at how IPCEI-CIS is poised to transform the European cloud market.

Key Takeaways:

• An in-depth understanding of the IPCEI-CIS initiative and its critical role in advancing Europe’s digital sovereignty
• Analysis of the four key workstreams driving this ambitious project
• Insights into federated edge computing, interoperability, and cybersecurity
• The collaboration between research institutions, companies, and member states
• Europe's strategy to reduce dependence on non-European cloud providers

Tune in to discover whether this initiative has what it takes to transform Europe’s digital game and make waves in the global cloud computing industry!

Brussels reawakens from its summer pause, we’re diving into the critical updates that will shape the future of EU Research and Innovation.

In this episode of The Insider Roundup: 

🔍Editorial Insight: Inês Lynce reflects on the delicate balance between scientific freedom and the agendas driving our research. Can we reconcile our intellectual passions with the broader societal goals? Her thoughts challenge us to see this as an opportunity, not a conflict.

We’re dissecting the latest reports set to redefine Horizon Europe. From the impressive yet challenging paths of the European Innovation Council (EIC) to the ambitious goals of the Green Transition, we’re asking the tough questions—are we truly maximizing Horizon Europe’s potential?

Global Perspective: Ann Mettler’s sharp analysis on European competitiveness—should Europe think beyond its borders and adapt its policies to the global stage? Her insights are a must-read for anyone navigating the complex landscape of EU R&I.

💡 Spotlight on Policy and Funding: Discover the innovative funding models for antiviral therapeutics and how they could revolutionize other sectors. Plus, a critical look at the recent Horizon Europe interim evaluation reports that will guide the next steps in EU R&I.

🔔 Call to Action: The European Commission has opened nominations for the Group of Scientific Advisors (Scientific Advisory Mechanism - SAM). This is your chance to contribute to shaping Europe’s future through informed, strategic, and impactful scientific advice.

📰 Read the full newsletter on INESC Brussels Hub website and listen to the latest podcast episode here. Don’t forget to subscribe!

In the most recent episode of The Insider Roundup, we covered the significant developments shaping the future of global research and innovation, with a particular focus on the evolving dynamics between Europe and China.

As China continues its rapid ascent in the scientific world, we examine the implications for international collaboration, the potential risks of isolationism, and the critical role that Europe is playing in AI and supercomputing advancements.

We also discuss the strategic measures being implemented to support startups and SMEs in these fields, highlighting the importance of building collaborative frameworks that enhance our collective capabilities. 

Tune in to unravel the complexities of these global shifts and consider how Europe can steer through this challenging yet promising era in research and innovation.

Takeaways

• The rapid advancements in AI and supercomputing are reshaping the global landscape of research and innovation.
• China's rise as a scientific powerhouse raises questions about international collaboration and the risks of isolationism.
• Europe is making significant advances in AI and supercomputing and is implementing measures to support startups and SMEs.
• Forging connections and harnessing collaborations is essential to strengthen collective potential and shape the future of global research.

Chapters

01:30 Introduction and Setting the Context

03:00: China's Rise as a Scientific Powerhouse

07:22: Challenges and Opportunities of International Collaboration

11:40: Advancements in AI and Supercomputing in Europe

12:10: Supporting Startups and SMEs in the Field of AI

15:32: Fostering connections and harnessing collaboration.

This week, as holidays are approaching and The Insider will go on holiday, we will skip the round-up and share an engaging episode as we sit down with Tadas Tumènas, Head of the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office LINO and Lecturer in Innovation Policy and Management at Mykolas Romeris University. With a rich background in EU Science, Technology, and Innovation policy, Tadas shares his journey from policy analyst to leading Lithuania's integration into international research networks. 

We explore Lithuania's current state in the EU R&I landscape, its strengths in digital innovation and the challenges it faces. Tadas provides an insightful overview of Lithuania's position on the upcoming FP10, emphasizing the need for funding blue-sky research, fostering critical technologies, and broadening participation across EU regions. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of policy and technological advancement within the EU framework. 

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation filled with expert insights and forward-looking perspectives on the future of European research and innovation. 

Introduction:

• Welcome to the first episode of 'The Insider Roundup.'
• Hosted by: [Your Name]
• This podcast brings you the latest buzz from LinkedIn and other social networks within the EU Research and Innovation community.

Segment 1: Election of Ursula von der Leyen and Political Guidelines for R&I:

1. Ursula von der Leyen:

• Post: "5 more years. I can’t begin to express how grateful I am for the trust of all MEPs that voted for me."
• Discussion on her re-election and implications for EU policy stability.

1. Tania Pentcheva:

• Post: "Political Guidelines 2024-2029"
• Role: European Director for Government and Industry Relations at Xylem.
• Insights on strengthening the EU's political framework.

1. Tadas Tumenas:

• Post: "Political Guidelines 2024-2029"
• Role: Lithuanian RDI liaison officer.
• Detailed analysis on how the guidelines impact R&I.

1. Science Business Article:

• Article: "Von der Leyen vows to increase EU research spending in new term"
• Overview of von der Leyen's commitment to research spending.

1. EARTO Press Release:

• Emphasis on empowering future policies through existing capacities.

Segment 2: The Future of Cohesion Policy and Its Implications for R&I:

1. Jorge Nunez Ferrer:

• Post: "#eubudget #cohesion #competitiveness"
• Discussion on the relationship between regional competitiveness and growth.

1. Richard Tuffs:

• Comment: "We come back to the point that all regions are different and there is no one size fits all..."

1. Projects Mentioned:

• ERA Fabric
• COOPERATE
• Importance of ERA Hubs in change management.

1. Alison Hunter:

• Post: "#srip #technologysovereignty #eu #openstrategicautonomy #economicsecurity"
• Analysis of the SRIP report and its implications for cohesion policy and R&I.
• SRIP Report: Science, Research and Innovation Performance of the EU (SRIP) report

Segment 3: Public Positions on the Next Framework Programme:

1. Tadas Tumenas:

• Post: "LT position on FP10"
• Overview of Lithuania’s position on FP10, including dual-use technology and EU Missions.

1. Coimbra Group:

• Position Paper: "Coimbra Group Position Paper"
• Discussion on their recommendations for the next Framework Programme.

Conclusion:

• Thank you for listening to this week’s episode of 'The Insider Roundup.'
• We welcome your thoughts and feedback using the hashtag #InsiderRoundup on social media.
• Stay tuned for our next episode for more updates from the EU R&I community.

LinkedIn Profiles and Posts Mentioned:

• Ursula von der Leyen
• Tania Pentcheva
• Tadas Tumenas
• Jorge Nunez Ferrer
• Richard Tuffs
• Alison Hunter
• SRIP Report
• Coimbra Group Position Paper