Coordination and support actions expand Poland’s research and innovation dimension in biological sciences
The EU-funded MOBI4HEALTH(opens in new window) (Centre of Molecular Biotechnology for Healthy Life biotech solutions bringing health to living organisms and environment supported by mass spec-focused research platform) project supported the Intercollegiate Faculty of Biotechnology of the University of Gdansk and the Medical University of Gdansk (IFB UG&MUG) in boosting its research and innovation potential. To achieve its aims, the project established the Centre of Molecular Biotechnology for Healthy Life: MOBI4Health Centre. In existence for over 20 years, the IFB is one of Poland’s top three biological science faculties. Experienced researchers were hired, including scientists with experience gained abroad, to increase the human potential of IFB and advance research in molecular biotechnology, biomedicine and environmental protection. By working alongside 10 European partners, the MOBI4Health Centre increased the mobility of IFB researchers and enhanced research partnerships. Collaborative activities led to an increased number of quality joint publications, thus boosting IFB visibility. In addition, the IFB’s integration in the European Research Area (ERA) was made easier through participation in scientific events such as conferences and workshops. The MOBI4HEALTH team successfully addressed the lack of infrastructure and expertise in mass spectrometry techniques for specialised research projects. It set up a modern, fully operational mass spectrometry laboratory led by qualified and trained staff. Mass spectrometry workshops enhanced skills at IFB, contributed to disseminating information on its upgraded capabilities and attracted a large number of participants interested in these technologies. Cooperation between academia and industry was intensified. Specialist staff provided support in intellectual property and innovation issues, assisted with market analyses and ideas on patent applications, and advised on new possibilities to cooperate with industry in the future. MOBI4HEALTH created excellent preconditions for entrepreneurship in biotech business. The involvement of relevant regional or national authorities in the project supported IFB staff in establishing the long-term sustainability of the MOBI4Health Centre beyond the project’s lifetime.