The European Commission has launched a strategy on research and technology infrastructures on Monday, framing it as essential for maintaining the bloc’s scientific edge. “To remain a frontrunner in the global race for science and innovation, Europe must reinforce decisively its research and technology infrastructures,” the Commission declared.
The plan aims to integrate facilities—from particle accelerators to AI-driven labs—into a seamless ecosystem accessible to academia and industry alike. MEPs underscored the strategy’s role in bridging the gap between research and market-ready innovation. “These infrastructures support the entire innovation cycle,” the Commission noted, citing their potential to bolster Europe’s “industrial competitiveness sovereignty.”
The strategy outlines five priority areas, including mobilising investments, simplifying governance, and attracting global talent. For startups and scaleups, easier access to testing facilities could “reduce risk for commercialisation,” accelerating the uptake of modernity.
Remembering Marie Skłodowska-Curie
A key pillar involves harmonising access across borders. The Commission proposed a “one-stop-shop” portal for scientists and a Charter of Access for industrial users to cut bureaucratic hurdles. “Remote and virtual access will be expanded,” officials said, alongside AI tools to navigate services.
A coordinated European approach is essential. — Commission’s new strategy on research and technology infrastructures
Cross-border pilot schemes—particularly in strategic fields like quantum computing—aim to pool resources and avoid duplication. “A coordinated European approach is essential,” the strategy argued, noting rivals’ heavy investments in similar infrastructure.
Talent retention looms large. The plan seeks to create “stronger career pathways” for researchers and technicians, linking training programmes to EU-wide initiatives like the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions. President Ursula von der Leyen, speaking at a May 2025 conference, called Europe’s infrastructure network a unique selling point. “World-class research infrastructure is one of the advantages setting Europe apart,” she said.
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The bloc already draws experts from over 100 countries; the strategy vows to expand staff exchanges and managerial training to keep facilities “resilient and up-to-date.”
Broader priorities
Internationally, the strategy positions research hubs as tools of “science diplomacy.” Collaboration with regions like ASEAN and Africa will promote European standards on data management and open science. Ukraine and other EU-associated countries will gain easier access to facilities, aiding their integration into the European Research Area. “This isn’t just about competition—it’s about addressing global challenges collectively,” officials emphasised.
The plan ties into broader EU priorities, including the forthcoming AI in Science Strategy and European Innovation Act. Consultations with stakeholders—from academia to SMEs—shaped its design, aligning with calls in the Draghi report for a “fifth freedom” of knowledge mobility. “Achieving this requires increased investment,” the Commission admitted, though specifics on funding remain vague. For now, the message is clear: Europe’s scientific future hinges on making its labs irresistible to the world’s brightest minds.
