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Politecnico di Milano Launches New Brussels Liaison Office

The Politecnico di Milano has recently marked a significant milestone with the inauguration of its Brussels Liaison Office. This establishment aims to enhance communication with European Union institutions and strategically support the university's active participation in EU-driven research and innovation programs.

Transition to a New Era

During an event at the European Parliament titled "From Knowledge to Impact: Research and Innovation in Collaboration with Society and Industry," the role of the new office was highlighted. Key stakeholders, including representatives from various European institutions, researchers, and academics gathered to discuss how the Politecnico plans to bolster its visibility and efficacy in Brussels.

The decision to open this office comes at a pivotal time, as the conclusion of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) leads into the upcoming EU Framework Program, which will significantly influence funding for research and the international positioning of universities. By establishing a structured, public office in Brussels, the Politecnico aims to anticipate and align with the strategic priorities and developmental trajectories of European research policies.

A Leading Force in Research Funding

The strategic importance of the Brussels office is underscored by the Politecnico di Milano's current standing as a leading Italian university in securing funding, particularly under the Horizon Europe program. With an impressive 389 funded projects totaling approximately 185.68 million euros, the university has clearly established its dominance in the research landscape.

Moreover, the Politecnico has also received 44 research projects funded by the European Research Council (ERC), amounting to around 44.65 million euros, validating its pioneering role in advanced research domains. Between 2021 and January 2026, the institution achieved a successful funding rate of 10.7% from the European Innovation Council (EIC) for 29 proposals, again ranking among the top tier in Europe.

Contributing to European Priorities

As articulated by Donatella Sciuto, the rector of Politecnico di Milano, the rationale for establishing a presence in Brussels isn't solely about reaping benefits from the institution's involvement; it's fundamentally about contributing positively to the decisions concerning European innovation and research priorities. “We aim to strengthen our connections with EU institutions and to participate more decisively in shaping continental priorities,” she stated.

The Brussels Liaison Office serves as a strategic center that facilitates ongoing dialogue between the Politecnico and the European ecosystem of research and innovation. It enables the university to take a more active role in designing policies relevant to research and innovation, thus enhancing the overall contribution to the European scientific community.

Enhancing Collaboration and Impact

Moreover, the Liaison Office strives to strengthen ties between universities, research teams, and the industrial system across Europe. This initiative promises to amplify participation in international collaborations and the development of impactful research and innovation projects, such as the new European Strategic Partnership on Advanced Materials (IAM-I).

In the discussion at the European Parliament, delegates including representatives from the European Commission and parliamentarians underscored the necessity of integrating universities, research organizations, and industry in the impending EU planning cycle. The launch of the Brussels Office reinforces Politecnico di Milano's long-term strategy aimed at enhancing its scientific competitiveness, fostering constructive dialogue with European institutions, and contributing to EU policies in research and innovation at a crucial time for the future of a knowledge-driven Europe.

In summary, the inauguration of the Brussels Liaison Office by Politecnico di Milano signifies a commitment to strengthen its role in European research and innovation landscapes, effectively shaping the future of European academia and industry collaboration.