The University takes a stand for the future of Europe's research and innovation

Luleå University of Technology is proud to announce the publication of its position paper titled "Luleå University of Technology looking ahead to the next Framework Programme (FP10)” – supporting the future of European research and innovation. This document outlines strategic priorities and calls for action to enhance Europe's research and innovation landscape.

Call for action

In the position paper Luleå University of Technology emphasises the need for increased investment in research to bolster Europe's strategic autonomy, resilience, and global leadership. The University advocates for a stand-alone FP10 R&I programme to ensure focused, efficient, and user-oriented research and innovation, addressing societal challenges effectively.

Key recommendations:

• Invest in research: Increased funding is crucial for Europe's strategic autonomy and global leadership.
• Retain stand-alone status: A dedicated FP10 programme will foster scientific progress and address societal challenges.
• Encourage collaboration: Promoting synergies across EU funding schemes and encouraging diverse participation will maximise impact and inclusivity.
• Embrace innovation: A balanced approach to funding, combining global openness with strategic autonomy, will drive sustainable growth.
• Support a mix of research types: Funding for fundamental, applied, and disruptive research is essential to drive innovation and solve real-world problems.
• Champion excellence: Strengthening the European Research Area (ERA) will optimise Europe's research potential and contribute to a knowledge-based economy.
• Elevate Social Sciences, Humanities, and Art (SSHA): Recognising the importance of SSHA alongside STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
• Reduce barriers for participation: Reducing bureaucratic barriers and enabling efficient access to funds, especially for under-represented regions and communities.
• Support universities: Adequate funding for indirect costs to ensure financial sustainability and infrastructure maintenance.

Strategic priorities

Luleå University of Technology identifies continuous needs for research in areas such as advanced materials, climate engineering, and nanotechnology, human brain-computer interfaces, quantum technologies, space utilisation, digital sovereignty, and cybersecurity. health innovations, production of critical raw materials, and resilient buildings and cities. These investments are essential for anticipating future disruptions and enhancing EU technological autonomy.

However, the future isn’t just about smarter tech – it’s about stronger humans. Space, AI, and sustainability demand not only innovation but also human resilience and adaptability. Beyond 2028, Europe must lead in human-centric research, ensuring humans don’t just adapt to the future but shape it.

“An increased investment in research and innovation within the EU is critical for us to be able to compete with the rest of the world. Luleå University of Technology believes that Europe must take the lead and invest in the research areas that shape the future. Research in technology and engineering is important, but so are social sciences, humanities, and the arts,” says Birgitta Bergvall-Kåreborn, Vice-Chancellor of Luleå University of Technology.

The Arctic perspective

Luleå University of Technology highlights unique opportunities for research and innovation in sustainable resource management, climate change monitoring, and leveraging Indigenous knowledge. These efforts contribute to global climate understanding and sustainable development.

Conclusion

By implementing these recommendations, FP10 can strengthen Europe's leadership in research, innovation, and sustainability, driving economic growth and societal well-being across the continent and beyond. Luleå University of Technology calls on policymakers, industry leaders, academic institutions, and all stakeholders to recognise and support these strategic priorities for a resilient, competitive, and inclusive Europe.

Read the position paper

• Luleå University of Technology looking ahead to the next Framework Programme (FP10) Pdf, 4.6 MB.

Contact

For more information, please contact: LTU-Brussels@ltu.se