Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences (ViA) made a significant contribution to the E³UDRES² Ent-r-e-novators Science Policy Conference, held at the Polytechnic University of Portalegre. Dr. psych. Vineta Silkāne, Associate Professor and Lead Researcher, along with Research Assistant Katrīne Kūkoja, presented their report titled “What does the future hold for researchers in the E³UDRES² European University Alliance?”
The conference, a hybrid event organized under the E³UDRES² European University Alliance, brought together project teams, policymakers, and representatives from Member State science agencies to discuss the outcomes of the Ent-r-e-novators project and future challenges for similar initiatives. Key topics included the intersection of science and policy, promotion of interdisciplinary research, and the importance of international collaboration in advancing knowledge.
In their presentation, V. Silkāne and K. Kūkoja emphasized ViA's active role in the "Ent-r-e-novators" project, particularly within the Human Resources and Research & Innovation Ecosystems working group. They highlighted the university's commitment to developing academic careers and fostering professional growth.
“We are actively working on developing human resources and improving the research ecosystem. Two of the most important tasks are the development of academic careers and professional growth. What we find especially important is that this working group seeks sustainable solutions to promote researcher well-being, by improving work-life balance and ensuring a supportive environment,” said K. Kūkoja.
The conference featured expert presentations, dynamic roundtables, and thematic corners, including showcases from the Ent-r-e-novators project and other related European University Alliances. Participants had the opportunity to explore how structured and integrated frameworks can seamlessly connect research and innovation ecosystems within the E³UDRES² alliance.
