Ashoka University Hosts EU R&I Info Day; Strengthens Global Research and Innovation Collaboration
The EU Research and Innovation (R&I) Info Day offered participants the opportunity to engage with representatives from several European countries.
New Delhi : Ashoka University hosted the EU Research and Innovation (R&I) Info Day on September 12, 2024, in collaboration with the Delegation of the European Union to India and EURAXESS India. This event delved into the strategic partnership between the EU and India in research and innovation, showcasing opportunities for Indian researchers to collaborate with the EU and its Member States. Tailored for the academic community, including students, researchers, and faculty from Ashoka University and surrounding institutions, the event highlighted funding opportunities and collaborative projects under Horizon Europe, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, and Erasmus Plus, as well as bilateral research and innovation programs and fellowships offered by the Member States.
During the event, participants had the opportunity to engage directly with distinguished representatives from Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Sweden, Norway, and Switzerland. These experts presented opportunities for bilateral cooperation and career development schemes designed to promote collaborative research initiatives. Additionally, attendees gained valuable insights into the support services provided by the EURAXESS network, which facilitates international research collaborations and mobility.
The event commenced with a welcome address from Prof. Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor of Ashoka University, and Mr. Pierrick Fillon-Ashida, First Counsellor and Head of the R&I Section at the Delegation of the EU to India. Keynote addresses were delivered by H.E. Mr. Hervé Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to India, and Prof. K. Vijay Raghavan, Former Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India and Chair of the Science Advisory Council at Ashoka University. Additionally, Prof. Gautam I. Menon, Dean of Research at Ashoka University, presented an overview of the university’s research landscape.
In addition to providing valuable insights into the EU-India research collaboration, the event served as a platform for the EU Delegation, EURAXESS India, and EU Member States to better understand Ashoka University’s academic, research, and innovation landscape. Testimonies on existing EU-India cooperation were shared, and representatives from various countries presented research, innovation, and study opportunities in Europe. The panel discussion and Q&A session offered further engagement and dialogue for participants.
Speaking at the event, His Excellency Mr. Hervé Delphin, Ambassador of the European Union Delegation to India, said, “Cooperation in Research and Innovation is an essential pillar of EU-India strategic partnership. Our funding programmes and collaborative programmes bring together bright minds and smart brains- students, top researchers and scientists – from India and Europe around concrete projects of high relevance for our nations. It is a powerful catalyst for the development of new technologies whether in IT tech, biotech, water tech and other domains, and for ensuring the transition from research phase to market uptake. It benefits our research and development ecosystems, our economies and our people”. He added: “It is thrilling to see India standing as a front-runner in the various research exchange and grants programmes of the EU, underlining EU’s attractiveness and potential. Today’s Info Day on EU R&I at Ashoka University is another such opportunity for Indian students and researchers to choose Europe.”
“We are honoured to host the EU Research and Innovation Info Day at Ashoka University, marking a significant step towards strengthening the bonds between the European Union and Indian academia. This event is more than just an opportunity to explore collaborative avenues; it is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing research and innovation on a global scale. By aligning our goals with the European Union’s research and student mobility programmes, we are not only opening doors for our students and faculty but also paving the way for impactful partnerships that will contribute to the scientific and technological progress of our world”, said Somak Raychaudhury, Vice – Chancellor, Ashoka University, during his welcome address.