In this second part of this conversation, Ricardo Migueis and Pirita Linholm delve into the critical role of regions in shaping Europe's research and innovation landscape.

They discuss the importance of innovation ecosystems, the challenges of fragmentation, and the need for interregional collaboration to address the innovation divide.

The conversation highlights the significance of inclusive policies that ensure no region is left behind, while also exploring the interplay between local and EU-level policies.

Pirita emphasizes the necessity for proactive engagement from research and innovation institutions to align with EU priorities and drive sustainable results.

This conversation explores the challenges and opportunities in European research and innovation, focusing on regional disparities, the role of missions, and strategies for empowering regions.

The speakers discuss the importance of cohesion and alignment in policies, the need for collaboration among stakeholders, and the potential of mission-oriented approaches to address societal challenges.

They emphasize the necessity of breaking down silos and fostering ecosystems that support innovation across Europe.

Takeaways

• Regions play a crucial role in European research and innovation.
• Innovation ecosystems must be less fragmented to be effective.
• Robust ecosystems are essential for competitiveness.
• Regional innovation valleys have generated enthusiasm but face challenges.
• Less developed regions may be more open to collaboration.
• Widening engagement is a priority to include all regions.
• Innovation is inherently local, yet must align with EU goals.
• R&I institutions should proactively engage with policy discussions.
• Long-term impacts of policies should be prioritized.
• Excellence in innovation can be found in every region. We need to think about the EU's investment policy.
• Cohesion policy needs to be reformed for better alignment.
• Widening measures should be embedded across programs.
• Missions require strong ecosystem action to succeed.
• Collaboration is key to tackling climate change.
• Regional innovation ecosystems must be mobilized effectively.
• Breaking silos can lead to better funding outcomes.
• Missions can drive local engagement and innovation.
• It's essential to match local interests with broader goals.
• Long-term commitment is crucial for mission success.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to European Research and Innovation Challenges

06:31: Regional Innovation Valleys: A Step Forward?

11:51: Addressing Inclusion in Innovation Policies

19:45: Proactive Roles of R&I Institutions

26:21: Evaluating Current Widening Schemes

41:39: The Role of Missions in EU Research and Innovation

56:15: Empowering Regions for Future Innovation

This is the Insider's Original Solo Episode with Ricardo Migueis. Where he explores the transformative impact of Portugal's partnerships with leading academic institutions like Carnegie Mellon, MIT, and UT Austin.

It evaluates the achievements, challenges, and future potential of these collaborations in reshaping Portugal's scientific and innovation landscape.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of sustainability, equity, and strategic focus in navigating the complexities of global research and innovation.

Takeaways

• Portugal's partnerships with top universities have reshaped its scientific landscape.
• Over 1,000 students earned dual PhDs through these collaborations.
• Publications from these partnerships are cited 60% more frequently.
• Patents from partnership research are cited three times more than others.
• Entrepreneurship has flourished, with companies like Feedzai and Sword Health emerging.
• Private sector engagement amplified the value of these collaborations.
• The partnerships have created a network that transcends individual programs.
• Equity in outcomes remains a critical concern in academic partnerships.
• Sustainability of these partnerships is essential for long-term impact.
• Portugal must strategically prioritize areas for global leadership.

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to Portugal's Bold Leap

02:53: Evaluating the Impact of Transatlantic Partnerships

06:12: Assessing Efficiency and Sustainability

09:00: Exploring Equity in Academic Partnerships

11:51: The Future of Portugal's Innovation Landscape

15:06: Strategic Focus and Global Positioning

17:54: Navigating Geopolitical Challenges

20:49: Conclusion: The Path Forward for Portugal

This is the second part of the series with with José Manuel Mendonça. It explores the unique governance model of INESC TEC, its evolution in relation to industry collaboration, the role of academia in research institutes, and the importance of multidisciplinary approaches in research.

José Mendonça shares insights on how INESC TEC was established to bridge the gap between academia and industry, the challenges faced, and the strategies implemented to foster collaboration and innovation.

The discussion highlights the need for a sustainable model that balances academic freedom with industrial application, emphasizing the significance of large, multidisciplinary teams in addressing real-world challenges. In this conversation, José Mendonça discusses the innovative models of laboratory sharing for impactful research, the evolving role of universities in the research landscape, and the complexities of governance in research institutions.

He emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the dual missions of research institutions to serve both educational and research goals. The conversation also touches on the effects of European integration on research capabilities and the ongoing challenges and opportunities for INESC TEC in the future.

Takeaways

• INESC's governance model is a pioneer in Portugal.
• The need for a model to interface with companies was clear from the start.
• Professors transitioned from researchers to project managers.
• The governance model allows for a sustainable structure.
• INESC TEC serves as a strategic glue for the ecosystem.
• Alignment of interests between INESC TEC and universities is crucial.
• The model requires continuous explanation to new university leadership.
• Multidisciplinary approaches are essential for tackling complex problems.
• Large groups enable collaboration across different scientific areas.
• The balance between academic freedom and industrial application is vital. State-of-the-art laboratories are essential for impactful research.
• Shared laboratories can accommodate large research groups effectively.
• Engineers play a crucial role in scientific research.
• Universities must adapt to evolving research demands.
• Governance in research institutions is complex and multifaceted.
• INESC TEC balances its dual mission to serve universities and researchers.
• Mentorship is vital for developing future leaders in research.
• European integration has transformed research capabilities in Portugal.
• Competition among institutions fosters innovation and improvement.
• The future of INESC TEC involves addressing funding and sustainability challenges.

Chapters

00:00: The Governance Model of INESC TEC

07:07: Evolution of Research and Industry Collaboration

17:00: The Role of Academia in Research Institutes

30:02: Multidisciplinary Approaches in Research

35:52: Innovative Laboratory Models for Research

39:12: The Evolving Role of Universities

41:44: Navigating Complex Governance Structures

45:05: Balancing Dual Missions in Research

48:41: The Importance of Mentorship in Research Institutions

56:11: European Integration and Its Impact on Research

01:07:51: Future Challenges and Opportunities for INESC TEC

In this insightful conversation, Professor José Manuel Mendonça shares his journey from a young engineer in post-revolution Portugal to becoming a prominent figure in research and innovation.

He reflects on the challenges faced during his education, the cultural shocks experienced while studying abroad, and the lessons learned from martial arts that shaped his approach to leadership and resilience.

Mendonça emphasizes the importance of mentorship and the desire to implement change upon returning to Portugal, ultimately contributing to the development of renewable energy and research institutions.

In this conversation, José Mendonça reflects on his journey of learning from diverse sources, the evolution of research opportunities for young researchers, and the establishment of Inesq and InesqTech.

He discusses the cultural shift in Portugal towards a more European identity and the impact of this shift on research and innovation. The conversation also highlights the role of Inesq in European research projects and the challenges faced by the current generation of researchers.

Takeaways

• Portugal in the 1970s faced significant challenges in research and innovation.
• The Carnation Revolution opened new opportunities for young engineers.
• Studying abroad was a rare but transformative experience for Portuguese students.
• Denmark was a leader in wind energy, influencing Mendonça's career path.
• Mendonça's experiences abroad highlighted the differences in democracy and social harmony.
• Returning to Portugal, he aimed to apply his knowledge and experiences to improve the local research landscape.
• Mendonça's martial arts training instilled discipline, focus, and resilience in his professional life.
• The philosophy of 'be strong, be useful' guided Mendonça's approach to challenges.
• Mentorship played a crucial role in shaping Mendonça's leadership style.
• The DNA of an institution is formed by its people and their values. Learning can come from unexpected places.
• The importance of mentorship in personal growth.
• Current researchers have more resources but face greater challenges.
• Portugal's research landscape has significantly improved over the years.
• Young researchers must publish and have an impact to succeed.
• Cultural shifts influence institutional development.
• Inesq was pivotal in integrating Portugal into European research.
• Collaboration with European partners is essential for growth.
• The evolution of research opportunities reflects broader societal changes.
• Innovation requires a balance of ethics and practical application.

Chapters

00:00: The Journey Begins: Portugal's Transformation

01:38: Dreams and Challenges of a Young Engineer

04:25: Pursuing Education Abroad: A Leap of Faith

10:37: Cultural Shock: Learning from the UK and Denmark

17:43: Returning to Portugal: A Pragmatic Approach

24:46: Discipline, Focus, and Resilience: The Martial Arts Influence

35:20: Mentorship and Leadership: Influences Along the Way

36:56: Learning from Diverse Sources

39:01: The Evolution of Research Opportunities

44:32: The Genesis of INESC and INESC TEC

46:15: Portugal's Cultural Shift and European Integration

51:09: INESC's Role in European Research Projects

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/