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

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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