The Swedish Research Council has provided input to the EU’s strategy for research and technology infrastructure

The strategy shall clarify and strengthen the links between different parts of the research and innovation system – from basic research to appllications in industry. On 22 May 2025, the Swedish Research Council submitted its formal input to the European Commission.

“The strategy is an important step towards a more coordinated, inclusive, and competitive research and innovation system in Europe. We need a system perspective that coordinates actors, investments, and governance at regional, national, and European level,” says Lisbeth Olsson, Secretary General of Research Infrastructure.

The Swedish Research Council highlights five priority areas in its input:

1. Clear definitions. A joint EU definition is needed, that differentiates research infrastructure from technology infrastructure, based on their purposes, target groups, and funding.
2. Broad-based and fair access. To release the innovation potential in the whole of Europe, more people need to have access to research infrastructure and technology infrastructure – not least small and medium-sized companies, start-ups, and the public sector.
3. Sustainable funding models. Research infrastructure and technology infrastructure have differing functions, and should therefore have separate, adapted structures for funding.
4. Effective governance and coordination. It is important to take into account the fact that research infrastructures and technology infrastructures have differing mandates and time horizons. Technology infrastructure should be integrated in existing structures, such as the European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI), but with differing mandates.
5. Competence provision for the future. Investments in infrastructure should be linked to long-term education initiatives. Universities have a key role to play in training the competence that is required for both research and industrial development.

The EU is planning to present the strategy after the summer.

Read the Swedish Research Council’s input on the European Commission’s website External link.