INL Hosts Insightful Session with Professor Manuel Heitor on European Research and Innovation

On Friday, February 28th, INL had the distinct privilege of welcoming back Professor Dr. Manuel Heitor, former Minister of Science in Portugal (2015-2022), an important figure following closely the conception, growth, and continued success of INL.

Professor Heitor addressed a nearly full auditorium, sharing his profound insights into the dynamic evolution of research and innovation across Europe. The discussion revolved around the “Align, Act, Accelerate (AAA) Report,” which critically examines the current and emerging challenges facing European research and innovation. The report offers strategic recommendations to refine European funding frameworks, ensuring adaptability within an increasingly complex and fast-paced global landscape.

The AAA Report has garnered significant attention and endorsement from leading publications, including Times Higher Education and Science Business. Professor Heitor’s ongoing efforts, such as coordinating the workgroup that delivered the AAA Report, or the survey for CESAER, further reinforce his pivotal role in shaping European research and innovation strategies.

Science for Policy
Professor Heitor’s presentation provided an extensive analysis of the key themes explored in the AAA Report, with a strong emphasis on “science for policy”—the integration of scientific knowledge into policymaking to drive forward-looking strategies in times of transformation. One of his central messages was to “Choose Europe,” advocating for scientific activism as a means to fortify European research and innovation, particularly in tackling contentious or unconventional topics. He underscored the necessity for Europe to adopt a more risk-tolerant approach, viewing failures as essential stepping stones toward groundbreaking discoveries and advancements.

He also addressed the European Union’s public procurement system, highlighting its historical shortcomings. He noted that only once—during the COVID-19 pandemic, in securing vaccines—had the EU effectively mobilised public procurement at a necessary scale. Given the emergence of new geopolitical threats, such as the Russian invasion of Ukraine, he stressed the urgent need for a more resilient and strategically coordinated EU procurement system.

Research Careers
A crucial aspect of Professor Heitor’s address was the imperative to cultivate high-calibre research careers, particularly for young scientists. He emphasised that the future of European research and innovation hinges on providing stable, rewarding, and well-supported career paths for emerging researchers.

To achieve this, he called for the introduction of co-funding initiatives aimed at institutions committed to fostering strong research careers. Beyond merely securing employment, he advocated for positions that offer career development, intellectual freedom, and long-term prospects, ensuring Europe remains an attractive hub for scientific talent. In a highly competitive global environment, where knowledge creation is accelerating at an unprecedented pace, Europe must strengthen its support structures for young researchers to sustain its leadership in innovation.

The Research Continuum
Professor Heitor further elaborated on the rapidly shifting global context, emphasising how science, technology, and geopolitical forces are increasingly intertwined. He pointed out the growing competition for talent and knowledge, where the speed and flexibility of scientific advancement play a critical role in maintaining European competitiveness.

He cautioned against the misuse of Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) as a rigid framework that compartmentalises research. Instead, he advocated for a more fluid approach that allows fundamental and radical scientific breakthroughs to seamlessly transition into applied innovation. He championed the idea of complementing public research funding with strategic public procurements, ensuring that innovative solutions reach implementation stages without unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.

Policy Transformation
Professor Heitor reminded the audience that reports such as the Draghi Report, and others, are not regulatory frameworks but instruments designed to drive policy transformation. He cited successful precedents, such as the creation of the European Innovation Council (EIC) and the establishment of Missions, as direct outcomes of policy-oriented instruments like the AAA Report.

The session was highly engaging, with an active and inquisitive audience reflecting a strong enthusiasm for the topics discussed. As a deeply respected and valued guest at INL, Professor Heitor was warmly received, and his insightful contributions continue to be a source of inspiration for the INL community.

This event underscored the importance of collaborative efforts and open dialogue among researchers at all career stages. It served as a powerful reminder of the vital role that research and innovation play in addressing global challenges and steering Europe towards a more sustainable, resilient, and forward-thinking future.

Text and Photography by Mariam González Debs