The European Commission has revealed a new strategy to bolster Europe’s research and technology infrastructures, aiming to secure the continent’s leadership in global science, innovation, and industrial competitiveness
This newly launched Europe strategy on research and technology infrastructure is designed to enhance integration, accessibility, and resilience across Europe’s scientific ecosystem. It marks a major step towards making Europe the preferred destination for world-class researchers, startups, and cutting-edge companies.
Building the backbone of innovation
From particle accelerators and clean rooms to advanced pilot production lines, Europe’s state-of-the-art facilities play a critical role in supporting the entire innovation cycle, from early-stage research to market-ready technologies.
These infrastructures underpin Europe’s technological sovereignty and significantly contribute to its industrial strength and scientific progress.
The Commission’s strategy acknowledges that to maintain and grow this competitive edge, the EU must upgrade and expand these infrastructures while ensuring they are aligned with the evolving needs of research and industry.
Five key areas of action
The strategy outlines targeted actions across five core areas to improve the performance, accessibility, and resilience of Europe’s research and technology infrastructures:
Strengthening the infrastructure ecosystem
- Investments will be mobilised to boost capacity and align infrastructure services more closely with the needs of researchers and innovators. The strategy also highlights the potential of digitalisation and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to modernise and enhance research capabilities.
Improving access and services
- A primary focus is on simplifying and streamlining access to facilities across the EU. This will enable a wide range of users, from researchers to startups, to access tailored services and high-quality data. It aims to accelerate scientific discoveries and help bring new technologies to market more efficiently.
Attracting and developing talent
- The EU will support new career pathways and skill development opportunities within research infrastructures. Efforts will also be made to attract top talent from around the world to contribute to Europe’s innovation ecosystem, reinforcing the “Choose Europe” initiative.
Enhancing governance and investment alignment
- The strategy calls for improved governance structures to support long-term investment planning and stronger coordination among Member States. This includes better alignment of funding sources to maximise the impact of public investment in research infrastructures.
Strengthening international collaboration and resilience
- Recognising the global nature of science and innovation, the strategy encourages strategic cooperation with international partners. It also prioritises risk management for critical facilities and data, supporting the EU’s technological autonomy in key areas.
Europe’s future competitiveness
This initiative follows key recommendations from the Draghi report on EU competitiveness and the Commission’s Expert Group report “Align, Act, Accelerate.” Both highlight the central role of research infrastructures in creating what is being referred to as the EU’s “fifth freedom”, the free movement of research, innovation, and knowledge.
The strategy is closely linked with other EU policies focused on innovation and competitiveness, including the upcoming AI in Science Strategy, the European Innovation Act, and the European Research Area Act.
A collaborative path forward
Broad consultations, including public feedback and dedicated conferences, informed the development of the strategy. As it moves forward, the Commission will work closely with Member States, industry, and research communities to implement the plan and reinforce Europe’s role as a global innovation powerhouse.
