The Research, Innovation & Transfer (RIT) Mission Council of the FORTHEM Alliance met at the University of Opole on 19-21 November 2025. The meeting was chaired by the Vice-Rector for Research, Prof. Daniel Pietrek, who emphasised the key role of the mission in building a strong position for the Alliance in the European research and innovation space.
During the three-day talks, participants discussed the mission’s achievements to date and the challenges facing the Alliance’s partners.
The presentation of current trends in European policy in the area of research and innovation, including assumptions for the new perspective, was a key point of the meeting. Participants also discussed the European Commission’s expectations regarding the development of European university alliances and preparations for the next project call.
During thematic sessions, council members also worked on the assumptions for the new RIT project application. Discussions were focused on, inter alia, building transnational research ecosystems, strengthening the role of early-career researchers, developing open science, and increasing mobility. Participants also discussed how the mission is expected to influence the development of innovation and strengthen the competitiveness of the European research area.
The meeting ended with the formulation of strategic recommendations and defining key priorities to be included in the new project application. As hosts of the event, representatives of the University of Opole emphasised their openness to further cooperation and active participation in shaping a common vision for the development of research and innovation within the FORTHEM Alliance.