The topics discussed at the LERU network meeting included, among others, strategies related to the competitiveness and international engagement of universities as well as their innovation activities.
The League of European Research Universities (LERU) held a meeting on 8-9 November at the University of Helsinki. LERU is a network of leading European research universities that engages in dialogue on EU-level higher education, research and innovation policies, and facilitates cooperation between universities.
In the November meeting, the rectors of LERU universities discussed, among other topics, their institutions' strategies for international engagement and the related ethical perspectives, as well as innovation activities and best practices in promoting the commercialisation of research.
The keynote address was given by Alexandr Hobza, Chief Economist at the Directorate-General for Research & Innovation of the European Commission, who highlighted the role of research and innovation for Europe's competitiveness in the future.
Influencing EU-level policies through the LERU network
The University of Helsinki has a strong presence in the LERU network. Rector Sari Lindblom is a member of the LERU Board of Directors. Vice-Rector Anne Portaankorva chairs the Research Policy Group consisting of vice-rectors for research at LERU universities, while Vice-Rector Hanna Snellman is a member of the International Policy Group consisting of vice-rectors for international affairs as well as of this policy group's steering group.
Rector Lindblom regards the network as an essential channel for not only impacting EU-level policies but also development within the University.
"LERU serves as a common voice for European universities. It is a well-known partner for European institutions and political stakeholders. It also plays a significant role in mutual learning and the exchange of best practices," she notes.
