Empowering European Research: Highlights from the Cross-Alliances Forum 2023

Many inspiring speeches were delivered on the 30 November and 1 December at the Science with and for Society in European Alliances: Cross-Alliances Forum 2023, in Brussels. Showcasing the progress that 37 alliances have made so far, the event aimed to create the free movement of knowledge.

As underscored by Manuel Aleixo (DG RTD, Head of Unit ERA Spreading excellence & Research careers) and March Tachelet (Director of REA) during their speeches, the European Universities Alliances and the European Commission are doing their best to make Europe the most attractive place for research and to encourage individuals to become researchers.

More than 230 guests were part of the auditorium. At the plenary sessions, all speakers agreed that now is the time to influence policymakers, especially in securing adequate funding for the ambitious goals of these Alliances. 11 organizing Alliances pooled their forces to initiate workshops and roundtables with professionals from various fields and all participating alliances. Discussions were focused on HR issues, advancing common science agendas, SwafS projects’ contribution for future developments of the Alliances and inter- and trans-disciplinarity in research management.

In the heart of the event

The emphasis was put on curiosity-driven, responsible, and transparent research, collaboration over competition, and dissemination of findings to society. Pivotal discussions and experience exchange played a crucial role in making informed decisions for the future, promoting impactful, quality-driven projects.

During an interactive poster session, the Alliances showcased their best results, and participants shared their best practices and valuable insights regarding seven transformational modules. You can find all the posters here.

European Commission members Tine Delva (DG EAC, Deputy Head of Unit) and Stijn Delauré (DG RTD, Policy Officer) attended the wrap-up, expressing satisfaction with the growing impact of the Alliances. The latter, through their Swafs projects, gained invaluable knowledge:

The European Universities Alliances are on the right path to being pioneers of change, said Minna Wilkki, Head of the Department C, REA.

You can enjoy the replay of the event and the wonderful photo gallery online.

The Organising Committee of the event wants to thank the photographer Aurore Delsoir for her great work during the forum.