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!