The forum's objective is to promote the participation of UJI's research staff in European projects, fostering new alliances and consortia. The event is organized by the Vice-Rectorate for Research and the Vice-Rectorate for Degrees, Internationalization, and Multilingualism, through the Office of European and International Projects (OPEI-UJI) and EUROFUE-UJI, of the Universitat Jaume I-Empresa Foundation.
The first day brought together researchers and technical staff from the University, professionals in European project management, R&D&I consultants, representatives from institutions and companies, and teaching and research staff from other higher education institutions.
UJI Rector Jesús Lancis highlighted the University's solid scientific activity and encouraged attendees to "leverage these capabilities and foster synergies that contribute to obtaining funds in competitive environments like European programs." He affirmed that the University will strengthen support, incentives, and recognition for those who pursue this funding route.
UJI's participation in European R&D&I programs has resulted in over 100 projects and attracted more than 35 million euros. Vice-Rector for Research, Azucena García, noted that "projects funded by Europe are those that allow research to go further, creating synergies with other international researchers and generating greater impact."
Beatriz Alonso Martín, a technician from OPEI-UJI, presented the university's support services, including incentives, aid, and resources for preparing European projects within the UJI's Research Promotion Plan, as well as the 'Europa Strategy' program.
A round table discussion brought together UJI researchers María Jesús Muñoz Torres, Luis Cabedo Mas, and Carlos Doñate Buendía to share experiences on European projects, successes, and lessons learned.
Gonzalo León Serrano, emeritus professor at the Polytechnic University of Madrid, provided a strategic analysis of the future of R&D&I in Europe, highlighting the role of Horizon Europe in accelerating technological development.
Marina Martínez-García, Horizon Europe Programme Officer at CDTI SOST-Brussels, presented updates on the upcoming Horizon Europe 2028-2034 program and cascade funding opportunities. Roberto Parras Cortés from IVACE reviewed the results of Horizon Europe in the Valencian Community.
The forum continues on Thursday, November 12th, with a second day dedicated to Erasmus+ and European cooperation in higher education.
