Brussels representation prepares researchers for EU success

Strong interest in contributing to EU policy

Over two intensive days in Stockholm in November and two in Brussels in December, course participants not only learned about the support resources available at home but also had a unique opportunity to meet key EU stakeholders.

Visits to the European Parliament, meetings with the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC), and discussions with the Stockholm Regional EU Office, as well as national representatives from Vinnova and Horizon Europe, provided insights into how EU research and innovation policy is shaped - and how researchers can influence it.

"The course provided many insights into the complex EU landscape. What I mainly take with me is that we have so much to gain by being proactively engaged at various levels," said Sandra Falck, Vice-Head of Operations, SciLifeLab and Head of division, SciLifeLab Administration KTH.”

Dan Andrée, Senior Adviser at the Brussels Office, highlighted the participants' enthusiasm not only for applying for EU funding but also for actively contributing to policy development, stating:

"One can see both advantages and disadvantages in the fact that political priorities influence parts of EU-level research. While some may feel that politicians should not interfere with research, it was encouraging to see the participants' engagement in contributing to EU political priorities from the perspective of their research areas."

Collaboration with the City of Stockholm

For the first time, a representative from the City of Stockholm participated in the course, bringing new perspectives and opportunities for collaboration. Anna Brunzell, Project Manager and EU Funding Strategist at the City of Stockholm, reflected on the importance of understanding academia's strategies:

"I wanted to broaden my understanding of how academic actors view and work with EU funding, as this can complement the city's perspective and create new opportunities for collaboration. The course has given me valuable insights into academia's approaches and strategies for EU funding. I look forward to using these lessons to strengthen cooperation between the city and researchers from Karolinska Institutet, KTH, and Stockholm University," said Anna Brunzell.

Facts about Stockholm Trio's EU course

• Held annually during the autumn/winter. Open to researchers and staff at Karolinska Institutet, KTH, and Stockholm University.
• Provides researchers with in-depth knowledge and tools to develop a plan and strategy for increasing participation in EU-funded research and innovation.
• Focus areas include EU applications, evaluating project proposals, joining EU networks, contributing to policy inputs, and participating as experts.

Learn more about the Brussels representation