In 2021, the FIT FORTHEM project started to work on transformational processes in research, innovation and transfer at its seven, since 2023 nine, partner universities. The following key objectives were defined for the project:
1.In line with the FORTHEM Lab and Outreach Missions, modelling a quadruple-helix transformation approach in cooperation between academia, industry, governance, and citizens to set the future research agenda of our universities in the framework of each institution’s local context. We will also bear in mind the Global Challenges and Missions identified by the future European Framework Programme for Research and Innovation Horizon Europe, and the Sustainable Development goals defined by the United Nations (from local to global) (WP 3, 4, 5, 6).
2.Based on the FORTHEM Lab Mission and future research activities of the Labs, developing joint Open Science Policies, to be discussed and shared with the other European Universities Networks. We will take into account new concepts of a more crosslinked and digitized science, new forms of cooperation and communication, and will try to overcome current weaknesses in the acceptance of Open Science requirements, the lack of incentives to participate, and the development of stand-alone solutions that often hamper rather than promote cooperation (WP 3, 4, 7).
3.Widening and sharing the FORTHEM networks and their outreach dimension by joining forces with other alliances, stakeholders and stakeholder networks, and policy makers, and thus being an important consultant for the European Commission for the further development of the European University Networks (WP 2, 5, 6, 7).
4. Eliminating site-specific disadvantages both of institutions and for researchers and students by sharing infrastructures, technologies, knowledge, and services (WP 2, 3, 4, 6).
5.Developing new models, processes and support structures to strengthen cross-institutional and alliance-wide cooperation on all key issues, building on regional clusters, integrating national initiatives and keeping an overall European perspective, not only in the field of education, but also and mainly in research and innovation activities. Thus, we will significantly contribute to the international competitiveness of FORTHEM in the European Research Area and contribute to the future European research agenda (WP 6 + all WPs).
6.Despite competing in some European funding programmes, such as the ERC, developing strong joint expert services open to all researchers of the Alliance in order to boost transnational cooperation and professionalization in research management at all partner institutions, to open new career perspectives for researchers and managers, and to underpin and facilitate excellent research with excellent support services (WP 2, 6).
