EULiST Interactive Conference “Make Science Matter” Bridge Research and Society in Brussels

On October 15, the Residence Palace in Brussels, alongside an active online audience across Europe, hosted the EULiST Interactive Conference: “Make Science Matter.” With more than 300 registered participants joining both in-person and online, the event brought together academics, policymakers, regional leaders, and societal stakeholders to address a critical question: How can scientific research move beyond academic excellence to drive real societal impact, shape policy, and serve citizens?

Guided throughout the day by EULiST Secretary General Natia Gamkrelidze, PhD, the conference provided a dynamic platform for active dialogue, panel discussions, and collaborative statement drafting.

Keynote Insights: Science Needs Action to Drive Policy

The conference opened with inspiring perspectives on the link between research and decision-making:

• MEP Ville Niinistö highlighted the critical bridge between science and policymaking in the European Union, emphasizing the need for evidence-based decisions in addressing modern challenges.
• Prof. Andreas Boudouvis captured the essence of the conference’s mission with a key takeaway: “Science matters, but not automatically.” He emphasized that transforming academic research into meaningful societal outcomes requires deliberate, structured effort and collaboration.

Engaging Round Tables: From Local Regions to the Future of European Universities

Three distinct round tables addressed key barriers, systemic opportunities, and future directions for European higher education:

1. Science Matters. Now More Than Ever?

• Chair: Cesar Caceres Taladriz
• Panelists: Kerstin Johansen, Kirsimarja Blomqvist, Martin Rebros
• Focus: Unpacking the core barriers facing modern science, with a focus on restoring public trust, bridging communication gaps, and ensuring scientific evidence reaches the public effectively.

2. Can Innovation Come from Cities and Regions?

• Chair: Marcello Di Risio
• Panelists: Dmitris Kaliampakos, Theda Minthe, Johannes Lutter
• Focus: Exploring how municipalities, local governments, and universities can collaborate to turn academic research into tangible solutions for local communities.

3. What’s Next for European Universities?

• Chair: Beatrix Busse
• Panelists: Walter Zampieri, Touko Närhi, Christine Balagué
• Focus: Defining the essential competencies future scientists and citizens need to navigate complex global challenges, alongside the transformative role of European University Alliances.

Co-Creating the EULiST “Make Science Matter” Statement

To conclude the conference, participants both in the room and online actively contributed to shaping the joint EULiST Conference Statement. Led by Lorena Fiorini, Antonia Lampropoulou, and Marco Zoppi, this co-creation process synthesized insights, audience questions, and live poll results from the Interactive Area into a unified strategic statement.

A Shared Success

The success of the event was made possible thanks to the valuable input of keynote speakers, panellists, and interactive participants across Europe, together with the organising team, students, and volunteers.