Conference in Brussels: Will the EU Fulfill Its Promises on Research and Innovation?
The annual Science|Business conference "New Mandate, New Agenda: Will the EU Live Up to Its Promises on R&I?" took place in Brussels on February 5–6, with the participation of Dr. Gintaras Valinčius, Chairman of the Research Council of Lithuania (RCL). He engaged in discussions with other experts about the future of the European life science sector.
The conference brought together high-level EU policymakers, research and innovation experts, representatives from national institutions, and leaders from the business and academic communities. During the conference, the priorities for European research and innovation policy under the new European Commission mandate were discussed, with a focus on strengthening the EU's competitiveness in the global market. Much attention was given to simplifying innovation funding to accelerate the transfer of knowledge from science to industry and society.
In the discussion titled "Science for Life: What Must Europe Do to Create the Next Generation of Game-Changers?" the challenges faced by Europe's health and life sciences (HLS) sector were addressed. While Europe led the industrial innovation sector in the 20th century, by the early 21st century, advanced research and experimental development (R&D) activities, talent, and intellectual property had increasingly shifted to the US and Asia. Dr. Valinčius highlighted that the European innovation ecosystem remains fragmented, with limited funding opportunities, slow commercialization of research results, and a complex legal environment often leading biotechnology companies to the US market, where investment conditions are more favorable.
Europe has long been renowned for its scientific expertise, thanks to strong academic institutions, a risk-tolerant culture, and a collaborative research environment. However, progress is hindered by several obstacles: limited funding opportunities, slow commercialization of research findings, and a fragmented capital network often compels European biotechnology companies to seek funding in the US, where the market is larger and investment conditions are more favorable.
Addressing these challenges, Dr. Valinčius emphasized that investing in science is not just about funding, it is also about investing in people: "Innovative ideas are not born from money, but from people. However, when public funds are allocated for scientific research, we expect a return."
The discussion explored various funding and innovation models. For example, in Denmark, researchers often retain full ownership of their intellectual property, which contrasts with centralized state control models. Meanwhile, in Switzerland, although universities rarely patent their inventions, researchers actively license their work and establish new businesses, promoting scientific entrepreneurship. These differing strategies raise a fundamental question: should Europe adopt a centralized or decentralized model for applying research results in the market? When discussing EU programmes, Dr. Valinčius pointed out that most European initiatives focus solely on a linear innovation process, whereas in the life sciences sector, innovation occur cyclically.
Another current debate in the scientific community is the divide between researchers focused on publications and those developing products. Both approaches are essential for scientific progress, but better collaboration between them could accelerate the translation of fundamental research into practical solutions.
During the discussion, Dr. Valinčius raised a key question: "What should we fund – curiosity-driven research or research aimed at product development? Both. Neglecting fundamental research would prevent Europe from catching up with the rest of the world or regaining its competitive advantage." To remain a global leader in science and innovation, Europe must adapt its funding models, regulatory systems, and collaboration strategies. Only a holistic approach, balancing academic freedom, financial incentives, and supportive policies, will ensure breakthroughs for the next generation of science. By fostering a culture of innovation, simplifying regulatory processes, and ensuring long-term funding, Europe can maintain its leadership in the global scientific advancement arena.
Last updated: 10-02-2025
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