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As part of the 2026 EUA R&I Forum, this afternoon event will explore the role of research and innovation in a transforming Europe.
Panel 1: The European Research Area, making the fifth freedom a reality
The first panel will bring together experts from key EU institutions and R&I stakeholders, focusing on the European Research Area Act and the next steps towards making the fifth freedom a reality:
Confirmed speakers
Panel 2: Shaping the next Horizon Europe programme, the state of play
The second panel will feature a discussion with policy makers, business associations and universities on the evolving processes shaping Horizon Europe 2028-2034:
The event will be followed by a networking reception.
Are you a member of one of EUA’s R&I expert groups or a representative of one of our collective members joining us for the internal morning sessions before the public event? Learn more in the next tab.
Prior to the public event on the afternoon of 2 December, the second EUA R&I Forum will bring together members of EUA’s Research and Innovation Strategy Group, Expert Group on Innovation, Expert Group on Open Science and the EUA Council for Doctoral Education Steering Committee, as well as representatives of EUA’s collective members (national rectors’ conferences).
During the morning sessions, we will reflect on cross-cutting topics and emerging trends of strategic importance for universities, including artificial intelligence, knowledge security and Open Science.
This part of the Forum will also feature a closed-door exchange on openness in international research and innovation cooperation with Maria Cristina Russo, Deputy Director-General for Innovation, Prosperity and International Cooperation, Directorate-General for Research and Innovation, European Commission and Maria Leptin, President of the European Research Council (ERC).
The discussion will focus on the current European landscape for research and innovation as well as key challenges and opportunities in R&I funding programmes.
