BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//CONNECTS-UK - ECPv6.17.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://connects-uk.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for CONNECTS-UK
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:Europe/London
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20230326T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20231029T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20240331T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20241027T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20250330T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20251026T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20260329T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20261025T010000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:+0000
TZOFFSETTO:+0100
TZNAME:BST
DTSTART:20270328T010000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:+0100
TZOFFSETTO:+0000
TZNAME:GMT
DTSTART:20271031T010000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T160000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260217T203000
DTSTAMP:20260217T114605Z
CREATED:20260122T174830Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T114605Z
UID:4052-1771344000-1771360200@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:CONNECTS-UK Closing Event
DESCRIPTION:  \nAfter two exciting and highly productive years\, the EU-funded project CONNECTS-UK is reaching its completion. This final event will highlight the project’s key achievements\, outcomes\, and long-term impact\, while bringing together EU researchers based in the UK and the many stakeholders who have engaged with the initiative—scientific attachés\, universities\, students\, journalists\, and policy-makers. \nBeyond reflecting on what CONNECTS-UK has achieved\, the event will also look ahead—fostering continuity\, shared purpose\, and a vision for future collaboration and sustainability beyond the lifetime of the project. \nThe afternoon will include opportunities to meet and engage with CONNECTS-UK partners and sponsors\, followed by a networking reception after the formal programme. \n  \nREGISTER HERE by 9 February 2026 for either in-person or online attendance. \nIn-person places at Queen Mary University of London are limited and will be allocated on a first-come\, first-served basis. For participants travelling from outside London\, we will consider contributing to travel costs (bus\, train\, etc.)\, subject to availability and on a first-come\, first-served basis. Further details will be provided upon registration. \nWe very much look forward to welcoming you to this celebratory and forward-looking event. \nWarm regards\,\nThe CONNECTS-UK Team \n  \nAGENDA\n15:00 – 16:00 DOORS OPEN FOR REGISTRATION AND REFRESHMENTS \n16:00 – 16:10 WELCOME REMARKS \n\nJavier Sajuria\, Dean for Education at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences\, Queen Mary University of London \nSara Alvira de Celis\, Co-chair CONNECTS-UK\, Spanish Researchers in the UK (SRUK/CERU)\n\n16:10 – 16:25 WELCOME REMARKS FROM CO-FUNDERS \n\nIsabell Poppelbaum\, Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation to the United Kingdom\nIzaskun Lacunza (recorded message)\, Director of the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology\n\n16:25 – 16:35 PRESENTATION OF CONNECTS-UK  \n\nAnna Fumarola\, Project Manager of CONNECTS-UK \n\n16:35 – 17:20 CONNECTS-UK: OVERVIEW OF KEY INITIATIVES  \n“Building a platform of EU researchers in the UK” – Ola Krzywanska and Anna Sobocińska\, Polonium Foundation \n“Research and network analysis” – Carla Molteni \, Association of Italian Scientists in the UK (AISUK)  \n“Policy and advocacy” – Catarina Liberato and Elisa Clemente\, Portuguese Association of Researchers and Students in the UK (PARSUK)  \n“Outreach and science communication” – Nathalie van Meurs and Niek Buurma\, Dutch Network of Academics in the UK (DNA in UK) Rita Trindade and Maria Dias\, Native Scientists  \nQ&A (5 min) \n17:20 – 17:45 PANEL DISCUSSION 1: HOW DID PARTICIPATION IN THE CONNECTS-UK ACTIVITIES BENEFIT YOU? \n\nModerator: Carlos Soler Montes\, University of Edinburgh\nMadeline R. Young-Touré\, University of Exeter \nOktay Cetinkaya\, Lecturer\, Newcastle University  \nHaydn Osborne-Brookes\, Young European Movement UK\nNataliia Nikitan\, Ukrainian-British Academic Society (UBAS) \n\nQ&A (5 min) \n17:45 – 18:10 REFRESHMENTS \n18:10 – 18:40 PANEL DISCUSSION 2: SCIENCE DIPLOMACY AND POLICY  \n\nModerator: Virginia A. Amigo Dotras\, Policy and Research Analyst of CONNECTS-UK \nAsli Kaymak-van Loo\, Education and Science Counsellor  at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the United Kingdom \nPoppy Joyce\, Policy Adviser\, Royal Society\nMabel Sanchez Barrioluengo\, Senior Lecturer at Alliance Manchester Business School\nJosé María Robles Fraga\, Minister Counsellor for Culture and Science\, Embassy of Spain in the UK \n\nQ&A (5 min) \n18:40 – 18:50 FUTURE OF CONNECTS-UK: PRESENTATION OF CONNECTS-UK NETWORK OF EUROPEAN DIASPORAS IN THE UK  \n\nJavier Pardo Diaz\, Co-chair of CONNECTS-UK\, Spanish Researchers in the UK(SRUK/CERU) \n\n18:50 – 19:00 AWARDS FOR BEST VIDEO AND BEST BLOG \n\n19:00 – 20:30 NETWORKING RECEPTION \n  \nThe agenda is subject to change. \n  \n  \nBIOS:\n  \nJavier Sajuria\, Dean for Education at the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences\, Queen Mary University of London \nJavier obtained his MSc and PhD from the Department of Political Science\, University College London. He also holds a law degree (J.D.) from PUC Chile. Prior to joining Queen Mary\, Javier was a Lecturer in Politics at Newcastle University (2016-2017)\, and an ESRC postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Strathclyde\, working as part of the team behind the Representative Audit of Britain project. \n__________________________ \n  \nSara Alvira de Celis\, Co-chair CONNECTS-UK\, Spanish Researchers in the UK (SRUK/CERU) \nSara Alvira de Celis graduated as a pharmacist from the Universidad de Santiago de Compostela (Spain)\, followed by an MSc in Biotechnological Engineering (2006-2008). In 2008\, she moved to the National Centre for Biotechnology (CNB-CSIC) in Madrid to complete her doctoral studies in biochemistry and structural biology. She accepted a Research Associate position at the University of Bristol in 2014 and was awarded several prizes and fellowships for her scientific achievements (the José Tormo Prize\, an EMBO Long-Term Fellowship\, and an Elizabeth Blackwell Fellowship). In 2023\, she transitioned from academia to research management\, working on large-scale EU and UKRI projects in Neuroscience and Engineering. Currently\, she manages partnerships and innovative projects in the Science Partnership Office\, still at the University of Bristol. She has been deeply involved in the Society of Spanish Researchers in the UK since 2015 in several executive roles.  Currently represent SRUK as a co-chair in the EU-funded project CONNECTS-UK. \n__________________________ \n  \nIsabell Poppelbaum\, Deputy Head of the European Union Delegation to the United Kingdom \nIsabell Poppelbaum currently serves as the Deputy Head of the EU Delegation to the United Kingdom. Prior to her appointment\, Ms Poppelbaum served for four years as Political Advisor to the Deputy Secretary General for Political Affairs/Political Director of the European External Action Service in Brussels\, covering EU relations with the Asia-Pacific\, Global Issues and EU-UK relations. From 2018-2020\, she worked on Syria and the Middle East at EEAS Headquarters. Prior to this\, Ms Poppelbaum served as Political Advisor in Myanmar and Thailand. \n__________________________ \n  \nIzaskun Lacunza (recorded message)\, Director of the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology \nShe holds a degree in Food Science and Technology and a PhD in Chemistry from the Autonomous University of Madrid\, and has also studied on ESADE’s Executive Programme in Public Sector Governance. \nIzaskun Lacunza is an expert in scientific advisory projects\, mobility and attraction of scientific talent\, open science and gender equality in research. Until her appointment\, she was director of the Public Policy Department at FECYT and coordinator of the Congress Science and Technology Office\, Office C\, a pioneering initiative providing scientific advice to the legislative branch. \nShe has participated in the management and promotion of flagship FECYT projects\, such as the EURAXESS initiative for attracting and retaining talent; in the promotion of European policies for human resource management in research with a gender perspective; and has launched mentoring programmes for scientific career diversification and gender equality (REBECA and FELISE). \nShe has also coordinated FECYT’s promotion and support of associations of Spanish scientists abroad and other European projects of interest to FECYT\, in areas such as scientific diplomacy and science for public policy. \nShe was appointed Director General of FECYT on 23 April 2024. \n__________________________ \n  \nAnna Fumarola\, Project Manager of CONNECTS-UK \nAs Director of Communication of HISPASAT (Madrid) an aero-space operator\, Anna Fumarola was in charge\, among others\, of the coordination of the different scientific cooperation programs of the R&I department with other national and international research centres within EU policy framework.  \nLater on\, as External Relations Advisor and Program Officer for UNAIDS (Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS) and UN Women in Pakistan\, she was specially involved with policy and advocacy for the UN women\, peace\, and security (WPS) agenda.  \nOnce back in Spain\, Anna Fumarola joined the Woman for Africa Foundation as Senior Project Manager\, where she passed from policy to practice and implementation with several activities of capacity-building in conflict-resolution in Mali for local women.   \nShe set-up and led two major post-doctoral programmes targeting African women researchers while implementing science diplomacy with a strong gender lens with the embassies of Spain in Senegal\, the United Kingdom\, South Africa\, Mozambique\, Nigeria  and Morocco.  \nAnna Fumarola has consulted in gender policy for several projects and programs of both private\, public and international organizations\, such as Casa Asia and Council Foundation Spain-India\, about design and implementation of gender programs consistent with the objectives of state actors (such as the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs) and the social corporate responsibility policies of the trustees. \n__________________________ \n  \nOla Krzywanska\, Polonium Foundation \nOla has been working with the Polonium Foundation since 2023\, joining the organization while living in the United States. During that time\, she organized the Science: Polish Perspective event\, supporting and connecting Polish scientists working across the U.S. After relocating to the United Kingdom\, she became actively involved in the Foundation’s CONNECT-UK project\, serving on the Action Coordination Board and contributing to the initiative’s strategic development. Beyond her volunteer engagement\, Ola is pursuing a PhD at University College London\, where she investigates retinal ageing in the African turquoise killifish – an exceptionally short-lived vertebrate model that offers valuable insights into the biology of ageing. \n__________________________ \n  \nAnna Sobocińska\, Polonium Foundation \nAnna Sobocinska is serving as the Chief Administrative Officer at the Polonium Foundation. With a career rooted in the medical and health sector\, and the NGO sector\, she manages the core functions of the foundation\, driving its vision and strategy to leverage the Polish scientific diaspora and turn brain drain into brain circulation. \n__________________________ \n  \nCarla Molteni \, Association of Italian Scientists in the UK (AISUK) \nCarla Molteni is Professor of Physics at King’s College London and co-Director of the Thomas Young Centre for the Theory and Simulation of Materials and Molecules. She is an expert in atomistic simulations applied to materials and biological systems\, working at the interface of physics with chemistry\, materials science and biology. Prior to joining King’s\, she worked at the Cavendish Laboratory in Cambridge and at the Max Plank Institute for Solid State Research in Stuttgart. She earned a PhD in Physics from the University of Milan. She is currently President of the Association of Italian Scientists in the UK (AISUK) and a member of the Scientific Council of the Embassy of Italy in London. \n__________________________ \n  \nCatarina Liberato\, Portuguese Association of Researchers and Students in the UK (PARSUK) \nCatarina M. Liberato is a Political Scientist and International Relations researcher with over eight years of experience in analytical research\, international teaching\, and project-based work\, with a strong background in project management\, team leadership\, and science diplomacy. She holds a PhD in International Relations from the University of Kent\, where her research examined the origins of UK foreign policy and the development of the concept of Global Britain. She is currently a researcher at the Conflict Analysis Research Centre (CARC)\, University of Kent. \nAlongside her academic profile\, she has experience in policy analysis\, consultancy\, and strategic advisory work. She has led and contributed to ad hoc consultancy projects\, providing evidence-based advice to government bodies\, diplomatic missions\, and Members of Parliament in both Portugal and the United Kingdom\, translating complex political\, institutional\, and societal dynamics into actionable insights. \nCatarina has taught internationally at the University of Kent\, University College London\, and the University of Marburg (Germany)\, led multidisciplinary teams\, and served on executive and advisory boards within research\, diplomacy\, and innovation networks. She was responsible for leading Working Package 3 (Policy and Advocacy) of the EU-funded project CONNECTS-UK\, coordinating policy engagement and advocacy activities across the consortium. In addition\, she has two years of hands-on experience working in diplomatic and start-up environments\, with a focus on EU-UK science diplomacy\, stakeholder engagement\, and cross-border collaboration. \n__________________________ \n  \nElisa Clemente\, Portuguese Association of Researchers and Students in the UK (PARSUK) \nShe currently works as Finance and Operations Manager at Imperial College London’s Rio Tinto Centre for Future Materials. Previously\, she was a Research Officer (Environment) at Imperial College London\, supporting a positive research environment grounded in integrity\, good governance and best practice. She holds a PhD in Neuroscience from UCL\, completed within the London Interdisciplinary Biosciences Consortium\, a programme that emphasises the holistic development of doctoral researchers\, cross‑faculty collaboration\, and training in both technical (programming\, statistics) and transferable skills (presentation\, critical thinking\, networking). \n__________________________ \n  \nNathalie van Meurs\, Dutch Network of Academics in the UK (DNA in UK) \nCross Cultural Psychologist (Ph.D.) | Coach (EMCC qualified) | Senior Fellow HEA | Author (fiction) | Chair DNA UK | Research: cultural values\, fairness & people’s relationship with their environment | Impact. Knowledge diplomacy\, personal wealth & sustainability. “What is normal for the spider\, is crazy for the fly” \n__________________________ \n  \nNiek Buurma\, Dutch Network of Academics in the UK (DNA in UK) \nNiek is a senior lecturer in physical organic chemistry at Cardiff University but grew up in the Netherlands\, surrounded by water. It is therefore not surprising that his research is aimed at understanding reactions and interactions in aqueous solutions. Research themes in Niek’s team include studies of chemical reaction mechanisms\, development of biosensors\, and development of cost-effective equipment for automation of chemistry. These research themes have logically resulted in complementary development of data analysis approaches for complex systems of reactions and interactions – and thus an interest in machine learning. \n__________________________ \n  \nRita Trindade\,  Native Scientists \nRita has a degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences\, and moved to the United Kingdom more than ten years ago to undertake a doctorate at University College London. Throughout her career\, she has worked across a range of sectors\, including research\, the pharmaceutical industry\, regulatory agencies\, and a scientific publishing house\, before focusing on science communication and the promotion of access to opportunities in science\, with particular attention to disadvantaged communities. \nShe currently works at the Royal Society\, where she manages a new career development programme focused on underrepresented research communities within universities across the United Kingdom and a mentoring scheme for early career researchers. She is also involved with Native Scientists\, concentrating on promoting scientific literacy among marginalised school groups\, and acts as liaison for the pan European programme CONNECTS UK\, which aims to strengthen collaboration between scientific communities in the European Union and the United Kingdom. \nRita shares the conviction that\, through science\, it is possible to foster the development of a more equal society that values and celebrates diversity. \n__________________________ \n  \nMaria Dias\, Native Scientists \nMaria is a Programme Lead and Communications Manager at Native Scientists\, driven by a lifelong passion for science and education. She holds a background in Nursing and a Master’s in Science Communication\, combining these disciplines to bridge the gap between researchers and the public. With ten years of experience in the NHS working in paediatric care\, Maria possesses a deep understanding of how to engage and inspire young audiences. After a decade in the UK\, Maria returned to Portugal\, where she transitioned into project management and communication\, honing her ability to lead impactful initiatives. Beyond her professional life\, she is a qualified yoga teacher and coaching facilitator. Maria is a cultural enthusiast and traveller who thrives on meaningful connections with family and friends. \n__________________________ \n  \nCarlos Soler Montes\, University of Edinburgh \nDr Carlos Soler Montes is a Senior Lecturer in Spanish Linguistics and the Head of Spanish\, Portuguese and Latin American Studies at the University of Edinburgh. As a researcher\, Carlos is particularly interested in the area of language variation from a pluricentric perspective and how this variation can be dealt with by native speakers\, as well as learners of Spanish and new speakers of the language. This is reflected in his research trajectory as he has examined the ways in which Spanish grammar varies across different Hispanic regions\, its particularities\, cultural connections and social contacts with other languages. Carlos has obtained a thorough training in language pedagogy and has worked as a language teacher throughout his career\, teaching Spanish at various North American universities (Connecticut\, Calgary and New Mexico) and the Instituto Cervantes. In 2017\, he won the Edinburgh University Students’ Association Teaching Award for Best Feedback. He is currently the President of the Society of Spanish Researchers in the United Kingdom (SRUK/CERU) and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. \n__________________________ \n  \nMadeline R. Young-Touré\, University of Exeter \nMadeline R. Young-Touré is an award-winning ESG specialist and University of Exeter lecturer at the Sustainable Futures Business School\, currently pursuing doctoral research at Camborne School of Mines. Interdisciplinary civil society advocate with expertise in international economics\, natural resources conflict\, social inequalities\, and government relations. Previously held senior lecturer positions at Anglia Ruskin University London\, UCL\, and University of Surrey. Multilingual keynote speaker and government adviser with extensive private sector experience in stakeholder engagement and Corporate Social Responsibility. Fellow of the Higher Education Academy\, charity director\, and regular contributor to international press and academic conferences. \n__________________________ \n  \nOktay Cetinkaya\, Lecturer\, Newcastle University  \nDr Oktay Cetinkaya (Senior Member\, IEEE) is a Lecturer in Sensor Systems at Newcastle University. Before joining Newcastle\, he was a Senior Research Associate and PETRAS Synthesis Fellow at the University of Oxford and held postdoctoral positions at the Universities of Sheffield and Southampton. He received his PhD in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Koc University and graduated with first-class honours in both Electrical Engineering and Electronics and Communication Engineering (double major) from Yildiz Technical University\, Turkey.\nDr Cetinkaya’s research advances the next generation of intelligent sensor systems that sense\, learn\, and communicate autonomously\, powered by harvested energy and embedded intelligence to transform how we monitor\, manage\, and sustain the physical world. His work spans low-power IoT and mobile systems\, including UAV-assisted data acquisition\, focusing on intermittent operation\, multi-modal data fusion\, and optimisation-based design for real-world deployment. He bridges theory and practice through collaborations with industry\, local authorities\, and public-sector stakeholders\, with applications across smart infrastructure\, utilities\, and the built environment. \n__________________________ \n  \nKateřina Apolínová\, Research Fellow at University of Southampton \nKateřina Apolínová is a postdoctoral Research Fellow at the team of Dr Angus Wann at the University of Southampton\, where she investigates how primary cilia integrate mechanical and chemical cues during skeletal development. Her work focuses on mechanobiology of the growth plate\, combining 3D tuneable hydrogel systems\, human stem cells\, and CRISPR/Cas9-based gene editing to study endochondral ossification. \nShe obtained her PhD in Biomedicine (cum laude) from ZeClinics and Universitat Pompeu Fabra in Barcelona through an MSCA-funded industrial doctoral programme\, where she developed ZebraReg\, a semi-automated platform for longitudinal analysis of heart regeneration in zebrafish larvae. Her doctoral research contributed to the characterization of a first-in-class cardioregenerative drug candidate in collaboration with industry and international academic partners. \nKateřina holds an MSc in Molecular Developmental Biology from Sorbonne Université and a BSc in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from Charles University. Passionate about science communication and patient outreach\, she finds joy in disseminating research to both scientific and lay audiences. \n__________________________ \n  \nNataliia Nikitan\, Ukrainian-British Academic Society (UBAS) \nNataliia Nikitan is an Associate Professor of Accounting and Taxation and a Visiting Research Associate at the University of Bristol. She has over 15 years of professional experience in accounting\, finance\, and public sector financial management\, as well as more than a decade of academic teaching and research experience. \nHer academic expertise includes management accounting\, taxation\, and accounting practices during periods of economic reconstruction. She has taught at leading Ukrainian universities and has contributed to the development of innovative online and virtual learning methodologies in collaboration with international academic partners. \nSince the beginning of the full-scale war in Ukraine\, Nataliia Nikitan has been based in the United Kingdom\, where she has been supported by the Council for At-Risk Academics (CARA) and the University of Bristol. Alongside her academic work\, she is a mother of two children\, aged 16 and 9. She is also a Coordinator of the Ukrainian British Academic Society (UBAS). Her research interests focus on accounting in post-conflict contexts\, financial governance\, and sustainable economic recovery. \n__________________________ \n  \nVirginia A. Amigo Dotras\, Policy and Research Analyst of CONNECTS-UK \nVirginia A. Amigo Dotras is the Policy and Research Analyst for CONNECTS-UK\, the first pan-EU platform in the UK aimed at fostering scientific collaborations between the EU and the UK. In this role\, she contributes to research and policy development in science and research policy and science diplomacy\, engages with a wide range of institutional and community stakeholders\, and supports initiatives promoting a diverse\, sustainable\, and equitable research environment. Virginia’s academic foundation spans a Dual Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Political Science from Charles III University of Madrid and a Master of Science in Social Psychology from The University of Edinburgh. \n__________________________ \n  \nAsli Kaymak-van Loo\, Education and Science Counsellor  at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the United Kingdom  \nAsli Kaymak-van Loo is based in London as the Education and Science Counsellor at the Embassy of the Netherlands in the UK since September 2025. After graduating from Utrecht University\, she began her career as a business consultant and project manager at a major consultancy firm working on international projects involving digitalisation\, process optimisation and change management. Following her transition to the higher education sector\, Asli held several senior roles\, including Deputy Director of a Dutch higher education \ninstitute in Turkey\, Head of Department at the Student and Educational Affairs of Leiden University\, and Senior Policy Advisor for the higher education and research sector at the Dutch Ministry of Education\, Culture and Science. Across these positions\, Asli was responsible for providing leadership\, shaping policy\, and delivering strategic advice in the areas of internationalization\, digitalisation\, cyber and research security\, and crisis management. \n__________________________ \n  \nPoppy Joyce\, Policy Adviser\, Royal Society \n__________________________ \n  \nMabel Sanchez Barrioluengo\, Senior Lecturer at Alliance Manchester Business School \nMabel Sánchez Barrioluengo is Senior Lecturer in Science Policy and Innovation at the Alliance Manchester Business School and Deputy Director of the Manchester Institute of Innovation Research. Previously she worked as Research Fellow at the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission in the area of Human Capital and Employment. She has a degree in Statistics and holds a PhD from the Technical University of Valencia and INGENIO (CSIC-UPV) in Spain with a particular focus on the economics of higher education. Her main research interests are in the involvement of universities in economic development\, university-society collaborations\, and the relationship between digital technologies\, skills\, employment and human capital. Her research has been published in several international journals like Research Policy\, Scientometrics\, Science and Public Policy\, Regional Studies\, etc. \n__________________________ \n  \nJosé María Robles Fraga\, Minister Counsellor for Culture and Science\, Embassy of Spain in the UK \nBorn in Bogota in 1956 to a diplomatic family\, José María Robles Fraga is a renowned Spanish diplomat\, who currently holds the post of Minister Counsellor for Cultural & Scientific affairs at the Embassy of Spain in London. \nAfter joining the diplomatic service in 1982\, Mr Robles held a number of positions in countries such as Honduras and France\, and in the Spanish Foreign Office’s central services. \nIn 1992 he went into politics becoming a diplomatic advisor for José María Aznar\, then president of Spain’s People’s Party who was elected Prime Minister in 1996. From 1993 to 2001 he was International Relations Secretary for the People’s Party (PP)\, becoming a member of its National Executive Committee. \nMP for Córdoba in Spain’s Congreso de los Diputados from 1993 until 2001\, during his tenure he was chosen as Spokesman for PP in the Spanish Foreign Affairs Commission and elected as chairman of the Spanish delegation to NATO’s parliamentary assembly between 2000 and 2001. \nMoving back into the Diplomatic service\, he was appointed Ambassador of Spain in Moscow in 2001\, also accredited to Belarus\, Georgia\, Uzbekistan\, Turkmenistan and Armenia. In 2005\, he became Ambassador of Spain in Pakistan\, a role he held until 2009\, when he moved back to Spain as director of Institutional Relations of the Santander Group. \nAmbassador of Spain in Lithuania from 2018 to 2022\, he was then posted as Minister Counsellor for Cultural and Scientific Affairs at the Embassy of Spain in London\, a position he holds today. \nHe has been\, amongst others\, member of the advisory board of the ‘Política Exterior’ magazine\, the European Council on Foreign Relations\, the Fundación Popular Iberoamericana and the Spain-US Foundation. \n__________________________ \n  \nJavier Pardo Diaz\, Co-chair of CONNECTS-UK\, Spanish Researchers in the UK(SRUK/CERU) \nJavier Pardo Díaz represents Spanish Researchers in the UK (SRUK/CERU) within CONNECTS-UK and co-chairs the project. He has held different roles at SRUK/CERU\, including President and Vice-President\, and at the Network of Associations of Spanish Researchers Abroad (RAICEX). He is interested in science policy and diplomacy\, as well as contributing to evidence-based policies. He holds a PhD in Statistics (University of Oxford) and a BSc in Biotechnology (Technical University of Madrid). He currently works as Parliamentary Affairs Manager at UK Research and Innovation.
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/connects-uk-closing-event/
LOCATION:The Octagon\, Queen's Building\, 327 Mile End Rd\, Bethnal Green\, London\, E1 4NS\, United Kingdom
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251107T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251107T235959
DTSTAMP:20251107T081229Z
CREATED:20250725T114846Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251107T081229Z
UID:2979-1762473600-1762559999@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:6th Open Forum: 'Ancient Wisdom\, Indigenous Knowledge and Modern Science:  Plant Biotechnology for Food Security' - Birmingham
DESCRIPTION:CONNECTS-UK 6th Open Forum:\n‘Ancient Wisdom\, Indigenous Knowledge and Modern Science: Plant Biotechnology for Food Security’\n7 November \n📍 Chemical Engineering Building > First Floor > Room CHEM-112- Chemical Engineer (University of Birmingham) \n  \nREGISTER HERE!\n\n  \nThe event can also be attended online here! \nJoin online starting at 12:00 (UK time) \n  \nCONNECTS-UK is holding its 6th Open Forum  ‘Ancient Wisdom\, Indigenous Knowledge and Modern Science: Plant Biotechnology for Food Security’ on \n7 November\, at the University of Birmingham at 12 pm – 4:15 pm (doors open for registration at 11 am). \nPlant biotechnology in all of its forms holds great promise for enhancing crop yields\, improving nutritional quality\, and ensuring food security in the face of climate change and population growth. At the same time\, there are important questions about potential environmental impact\, ethical considerations about indigenous practices\, and potential risks of food manipulation. \nThis event will explore both the benefits and challenges of plant biotechnology including transgenic and gene-edited crops\, examining current policies\, the latest research\, and the diverse perspectives of consumers. By sharing insights and experiences\, we aim to deepen our understanding of how innovative biotechnologies — alongside new investment platforms in regenerative food and agricultural systems — can contribute to a sustainable and secure food future for all. \nKey questions include: \n\nHow can recent advanced research in plant biotechnology\, including transgenic and gene-editing technologies\, help address the challenges of climate change and global food insecurity?\nHow can we build inclusive agricultural systems that share the gains of innovation fairly and respect indigenous practices across the globe?\nWhat role can innovative investment platforms and regenerative agricultural systems play in supporting sustainable biotechnology solutions and building consumer trust?\n\nThrough two panels and a roundtable discussion\, leading UK and international voices will explore pressing issues from multiple perspectives. \n\nAGENDA \n11:00-12:00 – Registration and Refreshments \n\n12:00-12:15 Welcome remarks \n\nIntroduced by Niek Buurma\, CONNECTS-UK and Dutch Network of Academics in the UK (DNA UK)\, Cardiff University\nRob MacKenzie\, Director\, Birmingham Institute of Forest Research\, University of Birmingham\nDr. Annette Kliemann\, Counsellor on agriculture and food\, Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom\n\n\n12:15-13:15 Panel 1: Case studies of the state of scientific research in biotechnology (in all of its forms) \n\nChristine Helen Foyer\, Professor\, School of Biosciences\, University of Birmingham\,\n     “Plant Responses to a High CO₂ World”\nAna Rita Sousa\, Formerly University of Reading\, Post-doctoral researcher (Portugal)\n     “Unlocking Ancient Preservation Secrets with Microbial Biotechnology”\nMichał Słota\, Director of Scientific Affairs of the Institute of Microbiological Technologies (Turek\, Poland) / Nando UAB (Lithuania)\nMónica Meijón\, Professor\, University of Oviedo (Spain)\n     “Remembering to Survive: A Conserved Stress Response in Plants?”\nDr. Estrella Luna Diez\, Associate Professor\, University of Birmingham\,\n     “Reaping the Benefits of Plant Vaccination”\n\nQ&A\n\n\n13:15-14:00 Networking lunch \n\n14:00-15:00 Panel 2: Biotechnology and society – impacts and public opinion \n\nConstanza Robles Fumarola\, Founding Partner\, Inanna (France)\n     “Grounding Innovation in Systems”\nBart Kuiter\, Program Developer Metropolitan Food Systems\, AMS Institute & Wageningen University & Research (The Netherlands)\n     “Preparing for the Future”\nCarlos Magdalena\, Scientific & Botanical Research Horticulturist Royal Botanical Garden\, Kew\n     “Understanding the Victoria Waterlilies\, a Vegetable Wonder and the Queen of the Aquatic Plants”\nJasper Zwinkels\, The Protein Project (Belgium)\n     “The role of fungi in the future food system – From food innovations to food security”\n\nQ&A\n\n\n\n15:00-15:20 Coffee-break and refreshments \n\n15:20-16:00 Roundtable:  What value and opportunities can interdisciplinary connections bring? And how can we contribute to trust in science and research? \n\nChair: Rosa Sanchez-Lucas\, Research Fellow\, University of Birmingham\nKatrien Martens\, Co-founder The Protein Project (Belgium)\nLuis Valledor Gonzalez\, Associate Professor\, Department of Organisms and Systems Biology\, University of Oviedo (Spain)\nProf. Michael Garratt\, Research Professor\, Department of Sustainable Land Management\, School of Agriculture Policy and Development\, University of Reading\n\n          Q&A \n\n16:00-16:15 – Prizes (posters and videos) and Wrap-up \nWe welcome everyone interested in biotechnology and food security\, from curious newcomers to experienced experts. The event is free and open to all\, with networking opportunities included. Hosted by the School of Biosciences at the University of Birmingham\, the event is set in an environment where plant science and sustainability are at the forefront of research. \nTravel Reimbursements:\nFor those travelling from outside Birmingham\, we offer travel reimbursements of up to £150 (limited availability on a first-come\, first-served basis). Please remember to keep your travel receipts\, as these will be required to process your claim. \nPoster and Video Competition:\nWe are also hosting a poster and video competition with a cash prize. You can find more information and the submission form clicking here. \n\nADD THE EVENT TO YOUR GOOGLE CALENDAR! \nStay tuned for more details — we look forward to seeing you there! \nSubscribe to our newsletter to be informed.  \nFor any inquiries please contact events.comms@connects-uk.org \n  \n\n  \nThis event is organised by CONNECTS-UK\, a collaborative project conceptualised in 2022 by the scientific diasporas of Finland\, France\, Italy\, Poland\, Portugal\, Netherlands\, and Spain in the UK\, together with Native Scientists. The diaspora of Slovenia is now also associated with CONNECTS-UK. The main goals of CONNECTS-UK are to strengthen EU-UK scientific collaboration and research mobility but also the showcase the impact of science. \nCONNECTS-UK is co-funded by the European Union. This event is supported by the the Government of the Netherlands in the UK and  FECYT (Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology) \nThe objective of the Open Fora is to bring together leading researchers in the EU and the UK\, who present their research to an expert and non-expert audience. With these events\, CONNECTS-UK aims to connect EU researchers and academics working in the UK\, to give visibility to their achievements and to transfer scientific knowledge to the broader society. \n  \n\n  \nImage: Faraday Monument\, Chamberlain Memorial Clock Tower (2011)\, by brianac37.\nLicensed under CC BY 2.0. Source: Wikimedia Commons.
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/6th-open-forum-ancient-wisdom-indigenous-knowledge-and-modern-science-plant-biotechnology-for-food-security-birmingham/
LOCATION:University of Birmingham\, University of Birmingham\, Edgbaston\, Birmingham\, B15 2TT\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/WEB-CONNECTS-UK_6th_Open_Forum_Birmingham_Visual-e1753444258406.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250704T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250704T235959
DTSTAMP:20250703T114508Z
CREATED:20250508T082235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250703T114508Z
UID:2478-1751587200-1751673599@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:5th Open Forum: 'From Climate Crisis to Action: Adapting to a Changing World' - York
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER HERE NOW: JULY 4th\, 2025\nCONNECTS-UK 5th Open Forum:  \n‘From Climate Crisis to Action: Adapting to a Changing World’ \n4 July 2025\, York \nEmerging challenges and solutions in climate science are at the forefront of global discourse. Understanding the mechanisms of climate change\, mitigating its impacts on ecosystems and communities\, exploring innovations in renewable energy\, and addressing environmental justice are critical for shaping a sustainable future. \nHow can we better prevent environmental degradation? What role do individual and collective actions play in reducing carbon footprints? How can scientific advancements contribute to more effective climate mitigation and adaptation strategies? How do climate solutions reach communities\, and do people trust the science driving policy and innovation? \nWe welcome everyone who is curious about climate change and wants to learn more\, from interested outsiders to leading experts. This event is open to all\, free of charge\, and includes networking opportunities. \n  \nAGENDA \n10:30-11:00 – Registration \n11:00-11:15 Welcome remarks \n\nIntroduced by Nathalie van Meurs\, CONNECTS-UK and Dutch Network of Academics in the UK (DNA UK)\, Middlesex University\nEmilien Gasc\, (remotely)\, Counsellor for climate\, environment and energy at the Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom\n\n11:15-12:15 Panel 1: Past and Present Challenges \n\nHenrice Altink\, Professor in Modern History\, University of York. “Jamaica’s transition to renewable energy: a short history”\nElisa Lopez Capel\, Senior Lecturer\, University of Newcastle\, “Sustainable farming practices to mitigate climate change”\nAndrea Werner\, Associate Professor of Business Ethics\, Middlesex University\, ‘Sustainability in the Global Fashion Industry: The need to move beyond novelty and growth’\nQ&A\n\n12:15-13:00 Networking lunch \n13:00-14:00 Panel 2: Future actions and solutions \n\nNils Barner\, University of Cambridge\, “Decarbonising Aviation from the Bottom Up: The Promise of Hydrogen Fuel Cells”\nJames Moir\, Chair of the Biorenewables Centre\, University of York\, “Crossing the valley of death: implementing biorenewable technologies”\nElisabetta Patané\, Passivhaus Designer\, Buro Happold Engineering\, (London) and Lecturer\, University of Reading\, “Thermal adaptability\, energy sufficiency and passive design”Q&A\n\n14:00-14:20 Coffee-break and refreshments \n14:20-15:00 Roundtable: What problems have been resolved and what potential can connections with other disciplines bring? \n\nChair: Lindsay Stringer\, Professor\, University of York\nElena Lopez-Gunn\, Royal Elcano Institute\, Founder and CEO of ICATALIST\nBenedict Morrison\, Senior Lecturer\, University of Exeter\nMadeline R. Young-Touré\, University of Exeter/University of Amsterdam\nHaydn Osborne-Brookes\, Young European Movement UK\, Head. of Campaigns\nQ&A\n\n15:00-15:15 Prizes (posters and videos) and wrap-up \nThis Agenda is subject to updates and alterations. \nWe are also hosting a poster and video competition with a cash prize; more details\, along with the agenda and registration form\, will be shared soon. Submit here your poster or video \nFor those travelling to York\, we are offering travel reimbursements of up to £150 per person (limited availability on a first-come\, first-served basis). Please keep your travel receipts for claiming the reimbursement. Only standard tickets (non first class) will be accepted. \n  \nSubscribe to our newsletter to be informed.  \nFor any inquiries please contact events.comms@connects-uk.org \n  \nXII International Symposium SRUK/CERU – York\, July 4-6\, 2025\nBetween 4th and 6th July participants will have the chance to join some of the session of Facing Challenges XII International Symposium SRUK/CERU. \n  \n\n  \nThis event is organised by CONNECTS-UK\, a collaborative project conceptualised in 2022 by the scientific diasporas of Finland\, France\, Italy\, Poland\, Portugal\, Netherlands\, and Spain in the UK\, together with Native Scientists. The diaspora of Slovenia is now also associated with CONNECTS-UK. The main goals of CONNECTS-UK are to strengthen EU-UK scientific collaboration and research mobility but also the showcase the impact of science. \nCONNECTS-UK is co-funded by the European Union. This event is supported by the the Government of the Netherlands in the UK\,  FECYT (Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology) and Xunta de Galicia. \nThe objective of the Open Fora is to bring together leading researchers in the EU and the UK\, who present their research to an expert and non-expert audience. With these events\, CONNECTS-UK aims to connect EU researchers and academics working in the UK\, to give visibility to their achievements and to transfer scientific knowledge to the broader society. \n  \n\n 
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/5th-open-forum-climate-york/
LOCATION:York\, Merchant Taylors' Hall\, Aldwark\, York\, YO1 7BX\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/york-v3-e1749766340910.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250605T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250605T170000
DTSTAMP:20250604T200959Z
CREATED:20250128T143550Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250604T200959Z
UID:1769-1749121200-1749142800@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:4th Open Forum: 'Global Economics: History is Not the Past' - London
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER NOW\nCONNECTS-UK 4th Open Forum:  \n‘Global Economics: History is Not the Past’ \nRegister \nView speaker information and bios \nLocation: Middlesex University\, The Burroughs\, Hendon\, London NW4 4BT (College Building\, Boardroom C219/220\, second floor) \nIn a rapidly changing world\, understanding the interconnectedness of global economies is more vital than ever. This forum will explore the lessons history teaches us about systemic thinking\, the persistent challenges in balancing economic thinking with socio-political dynamics\, and how to catalyse momentum for long-term\, collaborative solutions. \nJoin us in London on the 5th of June for an engaging and insightful discussion with leading British and European experts as we explore the latest breakthroughs and challenges in these critical areas. \nThis is your opportunity to connect with experts\, innovators\, and fellow participants in a collaborative discussion about: \n\nHow historical insights shape today’s economic strategies.\nThe socio-political challenges that we face and innovative approaches to deal with them.\nThe transformative power of interdisciplinary thinking to foster trust in science.\n\nProgramme Highlights (complete agenda below): \nPanel 1: Trust in Science \nAs we navigate an era marked by misinformation\, climate crisis\, and rapid technological change\, understanding the historical and global dynamics of trust in science from multiple perspectives is more urgent than ever. \nPanel 2: What is the impact of research on society? \nThis panel will explore how the transformative power of research and its lasting impact on society not only deepens our knowledge but also influences economic development\, social justice\, and global interconnectedness. \nRoundtable: What problems have been resolved and what potential can connections with other disciplines bring? \nAs boundaries between disciplines become increasingly fluid\, we have a unique opportunity to exchange methods\, perspectives\, and ideas. Let’s explore how cross-disciplinary connections have helped solve longstanding challenges – and how they might pave the way for innovation yet to come. \nWhether you are a researcher\, an academic\, a  professional\, a student\, or simply curious about these pressing issues\, your voice matters. \nSpecial opportunities: \n\nAttendees are invited to participate with a poster or video of your research. This is a unique opportunity to connect with researchers\, clinicians\, industry leaders\, policymakers\, and patient representatives\, working together to drive meaningful impact for patients and society. There will be a £100 prize for the best entries in each category. Guidelines:\n– Guidelines for video competition.\n– Guidelines for poster competition.\n– Competition submission form.\nFor those travelling to London\, we offer travel reimbursements of up to £80 per person (limited availability on a first-come\, first-served basis). Please keep your travel receipts to claim the reimbursement. Due to limited seating in the lecture theatre\, we encourage you to register early.\n\nThis event is organised by CONNECTS-UK and supported by Middlesex University\, the Government of the Netherlands in the UK\, and FECYT (Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology). \nSubscribe to our newsletter to be informed when the event’s REGISTRATION opens. \nFor any inquiries please contact events.comms@connects-uk.org \nRegister \nVew speaker information and bios \n  \nEVENT AGENDA Download the agenda \n\n\n\nThursday June 5\, 11:30 – 17:00 local time (UK) \nLocation: Middlesex University\, The Burroughs\, Hendon\, London NW4 4BT (College Building\, Boardroom C219/220\, second floor)\, and online\n\n\n\n11:30 – 12:30 Registration and refreshments\n\n\n\n12:30 – 12:50 Welcome remarks: \nIntroduced by Nathalie van Meurs\, CONNECTS-UK and Dutch Network of Academics in the UK (DNA UK)\, Middlesex University\nShân Wareing\, (video message)Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Officer at Middlesex University\, Professor \nCyril Robin-Campigneul (video message)\, Head of the Economic and Trade Affairs Section\, Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom\n\n\n\n12:50 – 13:50 Panel 1: Trust in science \nLucy Noakes\, Rab Butler Professor of Modern History at the University of Essex and President of the Royal Historical Society.\nTitle: The Never-Ending War: Britain\, Brexit and the Value of History \nRick van der Ploeg\, Professor of Economics at the University of Oxford\, University Professor at the University of Amsterdam\, and Research Fellow of CEPR\, CESifo and the Tinbergen Institute. Title: Climate sceptics: how to deal with it \nNolen Gertz\, Associate Professor of Applied Philosophy\, University of Twente (NL). Title: Why AI Ethics is Unethical \nIliana Olivié\, Senior analyst at Elcano Royal Institute\, Director of the European Think Tanks Group (ETTG)\, Associate professor at Complutense University of Madrid\, Vice-president at the European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI). Title: Trust in data. How can the Elcano Global Presence Index help you understand the newspapers’ headlines \nQ&A\n\n\n\n13:50 -14:40 Networking lunch \n\n\n\n14:40 – 15:40  Panel 2: What is the impact of research on society? \nBastien Chabé-Ferret\, Senior Lecturer in Economics\, Middlesex University (UK). Title: When Does Research Shape Policy and Why? \nDavid Clayton\, Professor of History at the University of York\, UK. Title: Cutting Personal Consumption via Rationing: lessons from drought mitigation in 1960s Hong Kong. \nJulian Jessop\, Independent Economist. Fellow at the Institute of Economic Affairs (London\, UK). Title: Have we really had enough of experts? \nQ&A \n15:40 – 16:00 Coffee- break and refreshments \n\n\n\n16:00 – 16:45 Roundtable: Resolved Challenges and Interdisciplinary Potential \nChair: Marius Kat\, Lead Associate\, Financial Conduct Authority \nJesús Sanjurjo\, Chancellor’s Fellow in Atlantic World History at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow \nJeremy Chapman\, The Integrity Centre\, Co-founder. Sycamore Alliance Ltd\, Director (Germany)  \nMartin Broad\, Middlesex University\, Dean\, Faculty of Business & Law\, Professor \nJoanna Paulynn Masangkay\, Centre for the Understanding of Sustainable Prosperity (CUSP) Research Fellow (CUSP) and Middlesex University \n\n\n\n\n16:45-17:00  Prizes (poster and video competition) and wrap-up\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis Agenda is subject to updates and alterations.
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/1769/
LOCATION:Middlesex University\, The Burroughs\, London\, NW4 4BT
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/square_Poster-4th-Open-Forum-London-1-e1745940278566.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250410T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250410T163000
DTSTAMP:20250408T224509Z
CREATED:20250127T224117Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T224509Z
UID:1732-1744282800-1744302600@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:3rd Open Forum - 'Emerging challenges and solutions in healthcare' - Bristol
DESCRIPTION:Click here to view speaker information and bios \nClick here to view the press release \nREGISTER HERE\nCONNECTS-UK 3rd Open Forum:\n“Emerging challenges and solutions in healthcare”\nEmerging challenges and solutions in healthcare are at the forefront of scientific and public discussions. How can we better collaborate to prevent diseases? What role do lifestyle interventions play in improving health outcomes? How can scientific advancements contribute to more effective treatments and prevention strategies? \nWe are excited to invite you to the 3rd Open Forum on Emerging Challenges and Solutions in Healthcare on the 10th of April in Bristol; this interactive hybrid event\, bringing together leading researchers from across Europe and the UK\, delivered for an expert and non-expert audience. \nThe event will feature two expert panels\, a roundtable discussion\, and a competition for posters and videos\, all aimed at fostering dialogue and exploring key issues shaping the future of healthcare. \nDiscussions will highlight: \n\nThe role of collaborations and partnerships in addressing healthcare challenges.\nThe societal impact of research and the importance of trust in science.\nStrategies for identifying and tackling emerging healthcare issues.\n\nProgramme Highlights (complete agenda below)\nPanel 1: Science & Healthcare Challenges\nExperts will discuss breakthroughs in cancer\, cardiovascular health\, computational biology\, and infectious diseases in developing countries. \nPanel 2: Society & Trust in Science\nThis session will explore past\, current and future challenges on health economics\, synthetic human biology\, vaccine misinformation\, and immunology. \nRoundtable: Working together to tackle global health challenges\nA multidisciplinary discussion on uniting stakeholders (researchers\, clinicians\, patients\, innovators and policymakers) to identify challenges and design strategies to translate efforts into tangible benefits for patients and societal change. \nSpecial opportunities: \n\nDuring registration\, you can sign up for a free networking lunch which will be offered at 13:00.\nFor those travelling to Bristol\, we offer travel reimbursements of up to £80 per person (limited availability on a first-come\, first-served basis). Please keep your travel receipts for claiming the reimbursement.\n\nThis event is the third in a series of six Open Fora that will be held across the UK. The CONNECTS-UK Open Fora aims to foster connections between leading EU researchers and academics based in the UK\, showcase their achievements\, and share valuable insights with both expert and non-expert audiences. \nPlease feel free to share this invitation with colleagues and friends who may be interested. \nCONNECTS-UK is co-funded by the European Union. \nWe look forward to seeing you at this insightful event! \nFor any inquiries please contact Events.Comms@connects-uk.org \nClick here to view speaker information and bios \nREGISTER HERE\n EVENT AGENDA \nClick here to view agenda and download the agenda \n\n\n\nThursday 10 April\, 11:00 – 16:30 local time (UK) \nUniversity of Bristol – Life Sciences Building (Tyndall Avenue\, BS8 1TQ\, Clifton Campus)\, Room G13/G14 \n\n\n\n\n11:00 – 11:30 Registration and coffee/tea\n\n\n\n11:30 – 11:45 Welcome: \n\nIntroduced by Sara Alvira de Celis – Research Project Manager – School of Physiology\, Pharmacology and Neuroscience\, University of Bristol. CONNECTS-UK co-chair.\nLiang-Fong Wong – Associate Pro Vice-Chancellor – Internationalisation. Professor of Regenerative Medicine. Bristol Medical School. University of Bristol.\nCyril Robin-Campigneul (recorded message) – Head of the Economic and Trade Affairs Section\, Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom.\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n11:45 – 13:00 PANEL 1: SCIENCE & HEALTHCARE CHALLENGES \nChair: Niek Buurma – Cardiff University -Senior Lecturer in Physical Organic Chemistry \n\nBritta Stordal – Middlesex University London – Dr Britta Stordal – Associate Professor of Cancer Research – Deputy Dean for Research and Knowledge Exchange.\nTitle: How Academics can get involved in Healthcare Evidence-Based Policy Work.\nIsra Cruz – Dr. Isra Cruz. Head\, International Health Department\, National School of Public Health\, Instituto de Salud Carlos III\, Spain.\nTitle: Research in Neglected Tropical Diseases: challenges and the path to decolonization.\nMichela Noseda –  Imperial College London (UK)\, Reader in Cardiovascular Science\, National Heart & Lung Institute – Faculty of Medicine\nTitle: Heart of the Matter: Decoding the Building Blocks of Cardiovascular Health.\nTomek Włodarski  – Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics Polish Academy of Sciences (Poland). Research Assistant.\nTitle: Unraveling Protein Folding in Cells Through a Computational Microscope.\n\n\n\n\n\n13:00 – 14:00 Lunch and coffee\n\n\n  \n \n14:00 – 15:15 Panel 2: SOCIETY & TRUST \nChair: Sara Alvira de Celis \n\nCatia Nocodemo – Professor at Brunel University London\, and University of Oxford.\nTitle: Trust\, Society\, and the NHS: How Economics Shapes the Future of Healthcare.\nMargarita del Val – Ph. D. Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO)\, Coordinator of the Interdisciplinary Research Platform on Global Health at the Spanish National Research Council (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas\, CSIC).\nTitle: The Spanish Interdisciplinary Research Platform on Global Health: collaborative research for societal challenges in infectious diseases\nLinda Karlsson – University of Turku; Department of Psychology and Speech-Language Pathology\, and Turku Institute for Advanced Studies (TIAS). Postdoctoral researcher. Title: Building trust and addressing vaccine concerns: Effective communication strategies for healthcare professionals.\nAgata Nyga – Dr Agata Nyga – Synlaia Innovations (UK). Founder.\nTitle: The role of society in the drug discovery space.\n\n\n\n\n  \n \n15:15 – 16:15 Roundtable: WORKING TOGETHER TO TACKLE GLOBAL HEALTHCARE CHALLENGES \nChair: Kourosh Norouzi –  University of Bristol (DREI). Impact Development Manager for Health and Life Sciences \n\nEvert Jan van Asselt  – Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the UK. Counsellor for Health\, Welfare and Sport.\nValentina Chervenkova – Academy of Medical Sciences. Senior European Policy Officer\nHazel Phillips – NIHR Bristol Biomedical Research Centre\nDiogo Martins – Wellcome Trust (UK)\, Lead Adviser to the CEO Office\nKatherine Furman – University of Liverpool.  Senior Lecturer of Philosophy\, Politics\, and Economics\n\n\n\n\n\n16:15-16:30 Wrap-up \n\n\n\nThis Agenda is finalised
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/3rd-open-forum-emerging-challenges-and-solutions-in-healthcare/
LOCATION:University of Bristol\, Life Science Building. Tyndall Avenue\, Bristol\, BS8 1TQ\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Poster-Bristol-v2-e1742494509958.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250331T000000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250331T235959
DTSTAMP:20250331T102826Z
CREATED:20250128T142940Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T102826Z
UID:1759-1743379200-1743465599@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:2nd European Researchers in the UK - Cambridge
DESCRIPTION:Click here to view Speaker Information and Bios \nClick here to view the Event Agenda \nREGISTER NOW\nJoin Us for the 2nd European Researchers in the UK Event!  \nAfter the tremendous success of the 1st event at Coventry University in May 2024\, we’re excited to announce that CONNECTS-UK is hosting the 2nd edition at the prestigious Corpus Christi College\, University of Cambridge\, on 31 March 2025. \nThis event offers a unique opportunity for researchers across all disciplines to engage with peers\, exchange insights\, and build meaningful professional connections. Attendees will hear inspiring talks from researchers at different career stages and take part in discussions on a wide range of topics. \nGiven the limited space at Corpus Christi College\, seats will be allocated on a first-come\, first-served basis. For UK-based attendees traveling from outside Cambridge\, we are happy to contribute up to £80 per person towards the cost of 2nd class train or bus tickets. Selected speakers traveling from outside Cambridge are eligible for full reimbursement of travel and accommodation costs. To receive reimbursement\, participants must confirm their attendance and submit a copy of their travel receipt. Only standard tickets will be accepted. \nIf you are interested in attending\, register below to secure your place. \nRegister to attend the event here\nSpread the Word:\nKnow someone who might be interested? Share this opportunity with them and help grow our community of researchers! \nSubscribe to our newsletter and stay up to date with our news\, including about this event. \nFor any inquiries please contact Events.Comms@connects-uk.org \nClick here to view Speaker Information and Bios \nClick here to view the Event Agenda \nEVENT AGENDA  \n\n\n\nMonday\, March 31 12:30h – 16:15 h local time  \nCorpus Christi College\, University of Cambridge\, CB2 1RH\, and on-line\n\n\n\n11:30 – 12:30  Doors open for registration and refreshments\n\n\n\n12:30 – 12:45 Welcome remarks:\nAla Santos\, CONNECTS-UK\, PhD\, President and CEO of Polonium Foundation.\nChris Howe\, President and Deputy Master of Corpus Christi College\, and Professor of Plant and Microbial Biochemistry at the University of Cambridge.\nCyril Robin-Champigneul\, Head of the Economic and Trade Affairs Section\,  Delegation of the European Union to the United Kingdom.\n\n\n\n12:45 – 13:45 Presentations of selected speakers: \nPanel 1 – Staging Identity: A Historical Perspective\n \nEmmanuela Wroth\, University of Cambridge\, Leverhulme Early Career Fellow. Talk title: Vittoria Tesi: the Conception of the Black Diva in Italian Opera\, 1715–1775. \nAlesia Mankouskaya\, UCL SSEES\, PhD candidate/PGTA. Talk title: At the Cultural Crossroads: Academic Drama in Jesuit and Orthodox Colleges of the 17th Century. The Legacy of Forgotten Manuscripts.\n \nPanel 2 – Climate Conscious Engineering \nNils Barner\, University of Cambridge\, Department of Engineering\, Whittle Laboratory\, PhD Candidate. Talk title: Charting technology pathways to hydrogen-electric aviation. \nTairan Li\, Department of Engineering\, University of Cambridge – Undergraduate student (4th year). Talk title: Plastic Classification Based on Photocurrent Data and Machine Learning. \nQuestions and answers\n\n\n\n13:45 – 14:45 Networking lunch\n\n\n\n14:45 – 15:45 Presentations of selected speakers: \nPanel 3 -Towards a Healthier Future \nAurelien Gueroult\, St George’s Vascular Institute (London)\, Academic Clinical Fellow and Specialty Registrar in Vascular Surgery.  Talk title: How long do stents for aortic aneurysms last?\n \nMichael-Bogdan Margineanu\, The Francis Crick Institute\, Postdoctoral Fellow. Talk title: Lactate powers electrical activity of small cell lung cancer. \nPanel 4 – AI in Society\n \nTetyana (Tanya) Krupiy\, Newcastle University\, Lecturer. Talk title: Aligning legal concepts to the way in which the operation of artificial intelligence decision-making processes brings about discrimination. \nOktay Cetinkaya\, Newcastle University\, Lecturer in Sensor Systems. Talk title: ”Waste-Not!”: Networked Sensor Innovation Driving Sustainable Food Practices\, Community Sharing\, and Waste Prevention. \nQuestions and answers\n\n\n\n15:45 –16:00: CONNECTS-UK presentation \nAnna Fumarola\, Project Manager CONNECTS-UK\n\n\n\n16:00 –16:15 Announcement of winner of best talk \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis Agenda is subject to updates and alterations.
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/2nd-european-researchers-in-the-uk-cambridge/
LOCATION:University of Cambridge\, Corpus Christi College\, Trumpington St\, Cambridge\, CB2 1RH
CATEGORIES:Networking,Research Showcase,WP1
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Speakers-announcement-final-v2-e1741965434430.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250327T153000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250327T170000
DTSTAMP:20250326T083410Z
CREATED:20250224T134125Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250326T083410Z
UID:1882-1743089400-1743094800@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:Informative Session: Workshop on MSCA Individual Fellowships
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER NOW\nfor CONNECTS-UK Informative Session: “Workshop on MSCA Individual Fellowships”\nJoin us for a dynamic and interactive workshop hosted by CONNECTS-UK\, in collaboration with EURAXESS and Newcastle University (NCL Europe). This session will focus on the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Individual Fellowships. \nThis session goes beyond an informative presentation – it’s an opportunity to engage directly with succesful MSCA fellows from various research fields. You’ll gain first-hand insights into their fellowship journeys\, hear about their successes and challenges\, and have the chance to interact with them personally to ask questions and receive guidance. \n📅 Date: 27th March 2025⏰ Time: 15:30-17:00 GMT💻 Format: Online\, via Zoom \nThis session will feature: \n\nA comprehensive overview of the MSCA programme and Individual Fellowships\nInsights into the application process\, eligibility\, funding\, and more\nFirst-hand accounts from successful MSCA fellows across different fields\, sharing their experiences\nOpportunities to directly interact with the speakers\, ask questions\, and gain personalised advice in a dynamic\, workshop-style format\n\n  \nAgenda:  \n\n\n\nIntroduction remarks – CONNECTS-UK\n\nPresentation of MSCA programme\n\nIndividual Fellowships for postdoctoral researchers – Dr Anja Berndt\, Interim National Contact Point for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions\nHighlight for the Staff Exchanges\nOverview of the MCAA Alumni association – Quentin Loisel\, Chair of Marie Curie Alumni Association UK Chapter\n\n\nShowcase presentations by MSCA successful fellows\n\nHumanities: Dr. Francesca Romana Del Fattore\, Marie Curie/EPSRC Post Doctoral Fellow at Newcastle University\nSocial Sciences: Dr. Cátia Moreira de Carvalho (Dublin City University School of Law and Governance)\nLife Sciences: Dr. Srikanth Ramaswamy (Newcastle University)\nPhysical Sciences and Engineering: Dr. Milan Kooplikkattil Sadan (Imperial College London)\n\n\nBreakout rooms with each MSCA successful fellows\n\nClosing remarks – CONNECTS-UK\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n🚨 Important: To attend\, please make sure to register and fill out the form in this link. Only registered participants will have access to the webinar. \n🚨 Important: We may be closing down the registration before the event due to limited capacity. Sorry for the inconvenience.
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/informative-session-workshop-on-msca-individual-fellowships/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241120T120000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241120T163000
DTSTAMP:20241120T085405Z
CREATED:20241009T222002Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241120T085405Z
UID:1328-1732104000-1732120200@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:2nd Open Forum “AI: what does it mean for research\, for society and for you?”
DESCRIPTION:CONNECTS-UK 2nd Open Forum: \n“Artificial Intelligence (AI). What does it mean for research\, for society and for you” \nWe are delighted to announce that registration is now open for our 2nd CONNECTS-UK Open Forum. The Open Forum will take place on 20 November 2024 at 12:00 (UK time) at Cardiff University (Haydn Ellis Building\, Cardiff University\, Maindy Road) and online at 13:15 (UK time) and is supported by Academia Europaea Cardiff. \nThe theme of this 2nd forum is “Artificial Intelligence (AI)”\, which has been hitting the headlines including by effectively winning the Nobel Prizes in both Physics and Chemistry this year. \nBut what exactly is AI? How could it affect us in our work and daily lives? How does it affect science? \nWe welcome everyone who is interested in AI – from interested outsiders\, to potential users and leading experts – to join us at our 2nd Open Forum. There will be a lively and frank discussion with leading European experts\, examining the potential of AI as well as possible issues. This event is open to all\, free of charge\, and offers lunch and networking opportunities. \nThis event is the second in a series of six Open Fora that will be held across the UK. The CONNECTS-UK Open Fora aim to foster connections between leading EU researchers and academics based in the UK\, showcase their achievements\, and share valuable insights with both expert and non-expert audiences. \nThe event is supported by Academia Europaea Cardiff\, part of a pan-European academy promoting research excellence and science for policy\, and sponsored by the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the UK. \nSpecial opportunities: \n\nDuring registration\, you can sign up for a networking lunch which will be offered at 12:00 PM\, before the official start of the event.\nFor those travelling to Cardiff\, we are offering travel reimbursements of up to £80 per person (limited availability on a first-come\, first-served basis). Please keep your travel receipts for claiming the reimbursement.\n\nRegistration: please note that the registration form is now closed. If you would like to attend in person\, you can register on the day of the event at the registration desk at 12pm (lobby/exhibition area on the ground floor\, Haydn Ellis Building\, Cardiff University\, Maindy Road). If you would like to attend online\, please contact info@connects-uk.org \nPlease feel free to share this invitation with colleagues and friends who may be interested. \nCONNECTS-UK is co-funded by the European Union. \nWe look forward to seeing you at this insightful event! \nSincerely\, \nCONNECTS-UK Team \nEVENT AGENDA  \nClick here to read the speakers bio \n\n\n\nWednesday\, November 20th 2024 \, 12:00 – 16:15 local time (London UK) and on-line (from 13:15) \n Haydn Ellis Building\, Cardiff University\, Maindy Road\n\n\n12:00 – 13:15 \nDoors open for registration \nNetworking lunch\, posters\, videos & promotional stands\n\n\n13:15 – 13:30\nWelcome and housekeeping \nOle Petersen\, CBE FRS\, Director Academia Europaea Hub\, Cardiff University. Professor of Physiology at Cardiff University \nJas Pal Badyal\, Chief Scientific Advisor for Wales\, Welsh Government   \nNiek Buurma\, CONNECTS-UK ACB member\, Co-founder and Co-director DNA UK (Dutch Network of Academics in the UK)\,  Senior lecturer in physical organic chemistry (Cardiff University) \nAnna Fumarola\, Project Manager at CONNECTS-UK \nBrando Benifei\, Member of the European parliament\, co-Rapporteur of the Artificial Intelligence Act\, prerecorded talk \n\n\n13:30 – 14:00\nKey-note speaker  \nTeemu Roos\, Leader of AI Education Programme (Finnish Center for Artificial Intelligence)\,Professor of Computer Science (specialization area: AI and Data Science) (University of Helsinki)\n\n\n14:00 – 14:50\nPanel 1: What will be the impact of AI on society?  \nChaired by Sara Alvira de Celis\, Research Project Manager – School of Physiology\, Pharmacology and Neuroscience\, University of Bristol. CONNECTS-UK ACB member. \nCecilia Rikap\, Associate Professor in Economics and the Head of Research of the University College London’s Institute for Innovation and Public Purpose\, “The political economy of AI: by whom\, for what and for whom?”  \nQingxiu Bu\, Associate Professor\, University of Sussex\, “Balancing the Benefits of Automated Facial Recognition (AFR) and Privacy Protection” \nQ&A\n\n\n14:50 – 15:15\nCoffee-break\n\n\n15:15 – 16:15\n Panel 2: How will AI impact research? \nChaired by Ole Petersen\, CBE FRS\, Director Academia Europaea Hub\, Cardiff University. Professor of Physiology at Cardiff University \nPeter Flach\, Professor of Artificial Intelligence\, Intelligent Systems Laboratory\, School of Computer Science\, University of Bristol\, “Generative AI in Research: Tool or Threat?” \nMarco Palombo\, Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC)\, School of Psychology\, Cardiff University & School of Computer Science and Informatics\, Cardiff University – Associate Professor\, “Towards Democratized and Sustainable Medical Imaging through AI” \nR. Gonzalo Parra\, Researcher\, Barcelona Supercomputing Center\, “Local Frustration: A computational biophysics based strategy to understand proteins and its implications for biomedicine” \nQ&A\n\n\n16:15 – 16:30\nWrap up and announcement of prize winners\n\n\n16:30\nClose\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThis Agenda is subject to updates and alterations. \n  \nCYHOEDDIAD \n2il Fforwm Agored CONNECTS-UK \n“Deallusrwydd Artiffisial (AI). Beth mae’n ei olygu i ymchwil\, i gymdeithas ac i chi? “ \nMae’n bleser gennym gyhoeddi bod cofrestru bellach ar agor ar gyfer ein 2il Fforwm Agored CONNECTS-UK. Bydd y Fforwm Agored yn cael ei gynnal ar 20 Tachwedd 2024 am 12:00 (amser y DU) ym Mhrifysgol Caerdydd (Adeilad Haydn Ellis\, Prifysgol Caerdydd\, Heol Maendy) ac ar-lein am 13:15 (amser y DU) ac fe’i cefnogir gan Academia Europaea Cardiff. \nThema’r 2il fforwm hwn yw “Deallusrwydd Artiffisial (AI)”\, sydd wedi bod yn denu sylw yn y wasg\, gan gynnwys trwy ennill Gwobrau Nobel mewn Ffiseg a Chemeg yn effeithiol eleni. \nOnd beth yn union yw AI? Sut y gallai effeithio arnom yn ein gwaith a’n bywydau beunyddiol? Sut mae’n effeithio ar wyddoniaeth? \nRydym yn croesawu pawb sydd â diddordeb mewn AI – o bobl o’r tu allan sydd â diddordeb\, i ddefnyddwyr posibl ac arbenigwyr blaenllaw – i ymuno â ni yn ein hail Fforwm Agored. Bydd trafodaeth fywiog a gonest gydag arbenigwyr blaenllaw yn Ewrop\, gan archwilio potensial AI yn ogystal â phroblemau posibl. Mae’r digwyddiad hwn yn agored i bawb\, yn rhad ac am ddim\, ac yn cynnig cinio a chyfleoedd rhwydweithio.   \nDarllenwch yr agenda llawn yma. \nY digwyddiad hwn yw’r ail mewn cyfres o chwe Fforwm Agored a gynhelir ledled y DU. Nod Fforymau Agored CONNECTS-UK yw meithrin cysylltiadau rhwng ymchwilwyr ac academyddion blaenllaw o’r UE sydd wedi’u lleoli yn y DU\, arddangos eu cyflawniadau\, a rhannu mewnwelediadau gwerthfawr gyda chynulleidfaoedd arbenigol ac anarbenigol. \nCefnogir y digwyddiad gan Academia Europaea Cardiff\, sy’n rhan o academi Ewrop gyfan sy’n hyrwyddo rhagoriaeth ymchwil a gwyddoniaeth ar gyfer polisi\, ac mae wedi’i noddi gan Sefydliad Gwyddoniaeth a Thechnoleg Sbaen a Llysgenhadaeth Teyrnas yr Iseldiroedd yn y DU. \nCyfleoedd arbennig: \n\nWrth gofrestru\, gallwch gofrestru ar gyfer cinio rhwydweithio a fydd yn cael ei gynnig am 12:00 PM\, cyn dechrau’r digwyddiad yn swyddogol.\nGwahoddir ymchwilwyr i gymryd rhan mewn cystadleuaeth poster a fideo gyda gwobr o £100 am y ceisiadau gorau. Gallwch ddod o hyd i’r canllawiau cystadlu ar gyfer y gwobrau fideo a phoster a’r ffurflen gofrestru i gymryd rhan yn y gystadleuaeth. (Gwyliwch y fideo hwn am awgrymiadau ar sut i recordio fideo tebyg).\nI’r rhai sy’n teithio i Gaerdydd\, rydym yn cynnig ad-daliadau teithio o hyd at £80 y pen (argaeledd cyfyngedig ar sail y cyntaf i’r felin). Cadwch eich derbynebau teithio ar gyfer hawlio’r ad-daliad.\n\nCofrestru: sylwch fod y ffurflen gofrestru bellach ar gau. Os hoffech fynychu’n bersonol\, gallwch gofrestru ar ddiwrnod y digwyddiad wrth y ddesg gofrestru am 12pm (ardal lobi/arddangos ar y llawr gwaelod\, Adeilad Haydn Ellis\, Prifysgol Caerdydd\, Heol Maendy). Os hoffech fynychu ar-lein\, cysylltwch â info@connects-uk.org. \nMae croeso i chi rannu’r gwahoddiad hwn gyda chydweithwyr a ffrindiau a allai fod â diddordeb. \nMae CONNECTS-UK yn cael ei gyd-ariannu gan yr Undeb Ewropeaidd. \nRydym yn edrych ymlaen at eich gweld yn y digwyddiad cyffrous hwn! \nYn gywir\, \nCONNECTS-UK Team \nCliciwch yma i ddarllen bywgraffiad y siaradwyr.
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/2nd-open-forum-ai-what-does-it-mean-for-research-for-society-and-for-you/
LOCATION:Haydn Ellis Building\, Cardiff University\, Maindy Road\, Haydn Ellis Building\, Cardiff University\, Maindy Road\, Cardiff\, CF24 4HQ\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Cardiff-Open-Forum-poster-e1728558879813.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241018T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241018T173000
DTSTAMP:20241017T215115Z
CREATED:20240902T151920Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20241017T215115Z
UID:1144-1729256400-1729272600@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:1st Open Forum: Democratic Backsliding
DESCRIPTION:  \n  \n  \nCONNECTS-UK 1st Open Forum on “Democratic Backsliding” \nWe are excited to announce the 1st Open Forum organised by CONNECTS-UK\, taking place on 18th October 2024 at 1:00 PM UK time at the University of Edinburgh (Usha Kasera Lecture Theatre\, Law School\, Old College\, South Bridge\, Edinburgh EH8 9YL) and online at 2:15 PM UK time. \nThe theme of this inaugural forum is “Democratic Backsliding”\, with a focus on misinformation\, the global influence of social media\, and trust in science. This event is the first in a series of six forums that will be held across the UK. It aims to foster connections between leading EU researchers and academics based in the UK\, showcase their achievements\, and share valuable insights with both expert and non-expert audiences. \nWe are pleased to welcome a lineup of esteemed speakers from the UK and EU\, including Zsolt Boda (Research professor of the HUN-REN Centre for Social Sciences\, Hungary) as our keynote speaker\, Joerg Friedrichs (University of Oxford)\, and Mette Wiggen (University of Leeds)\, among others. Complete agenda below. \nThis event is sponsored by the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the UK. A networking lunch will be offered at 1:00 PM before the official start of the event. \nDue to limited seating in the lecture theatre\, attendance will be first come\, first served\, so we encourage you to register early.  \nRegistration: please note that the registration form is now closed. If you would like to attend in person\, you can register on the day of the event at the registration desk at 1pm (room G.158 – Quad Teaching Room). If you would like to attend online\, please contact info@connects-uk.org \nSpecial Opportunities: \n\nFor those travelling to Edinburgh\, we are offering travel reimbursements of up to £80 per person (limited availability on a first-come\, first-served basis). Please retain your travel receipts for reimbursement.\n\n  \nWe look forward to seeing you at this insightful event! \n  \nAGENDA (This agenda is subject to changes)  \nYou can see the full bio of all speakers involved in the event here. \n13:00 – 14:00 – Networking lunch (Buffet\, Posters\, Videos) \n14:15 – 14:30 – Welcome  \nCo-chaired by Carlos Soler Montes (Vice-President of the Society of Spanish Researchers in the UK) and Jenny Watson\, Department of European languages and Cultures\, University of Edinburgh \n\nJulie Fitzpatrick\, Chief Scientific Advisor\, Government of Scotland\nNathalie Van Meurs\, CONNECTS-UK and Co-founder and Co-director DNA UK (Dutch Network of Academics in the UK)\nGuy Puzey\, Head of the Department of European Languages and Cultures\, The University of Edinburgh\n\n14:30 – 15:00 – Keynote: Zsolt Boda\, Research professor of the HUN-REN Centre for Social Sciences\, Hungary\, “Why is democracy backsliding?”.  Followed by short Q&A \n15:00 -16:00 –  \nPanel 1: Trust in Science \n\nSusanne Caarls\, Ministry of Education\, Culture and Science\, The Hague\, “The value(s) of science in a democratic society: the importance of maintaining an international perspective”\nJustin Sulik\, Senior researcher\, Munich Interactive Intelligence Initiative\, LMU Munich\, “Diverse perspectives on distrust in science”\nSicco de Knecht\, Director of the National Centre of Expertise on Science and Society in the Netherlands (NEWS)\, The Hague\n\nPanel discussion and audience interaction (20 mins)  \n16:00 – 16:20 – Coffee break \n16:20 – 17:15 – Panel 2: Panel on Politics \n\nJoerg Friedrichs\, Associate Professor of Politics\, University of Oxford\, “Political Use of Emotions: Populist and Governmentalist Fear and Anger”\nMette Wiggen\, Lecturer\, University of Leeds\, “Challenges to democracy in Scandinavia”\nMathew Williams\, Chief Scientific Advisor\, Environment\, Natural Resources and Agriculture\, Scottish Government\n\nPanel discussion and audience interaction (20 mins)  \n17:15  Close and departure
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/1st-open-forum-democratic-backsliding/
LOCATION:Edinburgh EH8 9YL\, Usha Kasera Lecture Theatre at the Law School\, Old College\, South Bridge\, Edinburgh\, EH8 9YL\, United Kingdom
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CONNECTS-UK-Open-Forum-Democratic-Backsliding-Poster-e1725291216784.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20241001T163000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20241001T173000
DTSTAMP:20250224T152157Z
CREATED:20240917T112712Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250224T152157Z
UID:1194-1727800200-1727803800@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:Informative Session: "Webinar: The research career in Spain"
DESCRIPTION:REGISTER NOW \nfor CONNECTS-UK Informative Sessions\, presenting “The research career in Spain”! \nJoin us on for an insightful session hosted by CONNECTS-UK\, and delivered by FECYT\, Axencia Galega de Innovación\, and EURAXESS. \n📅 Date: October 1\, 2024 \n⏰ Time: 16:30-17:30 BST | 17:30-18:30 CEST \nLearn about key stages in the Spanish research career\, merits\, assessment mechanisms\, and funding options. We’ll cover essential concepts like R3 certification\, ANECA\, and how to access permanent positions in Spain. \nWe’ll also highlight the Oportunius Program\, a key initiative in Galicia supporting top research talent through ERC funding opportunities. \nSpeakers: \n\nElisa García García\, Project Officer at FECYT\, Trainer and Career Advisor\, EURAXESS-Spain.\nMaría José Mariño Fontenla\, Director of Talent and Transfer\, Axencia Galega de Innovación.\n\n🚨 Important: To attend\, please make sure to register and fill out the form in this link. Only registered participants will have access to the webinar. \n 
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/connects-uk-informative-session-the-research-career-in-spain/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240520T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240520T180000
DTSTAMP:20240517T151146Z
CREATED:20240425T210951Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240517T151146Z
UID:395-1716213600-1716228000@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:European Researchers in the UK
DESCRIPTION:Join us for the CONNECTS-UK European Researchers in the UK Event on May 20\, 2024\, at 14:00 BST (UK Time). \nWe’ll be gathering both at Coventry University and online for an enriching experience. Our previous launch event in April was dedicated to showcasing CONNECTS-UK’s activities and goals to EU researchers in the UK\, along with esteemed stakeholders like scientific attachés\, universities\, students\, journalists\, and more. \nThis time in Coventry\, we’re excited to offer European Researchers across all disciplines working in the UK the opportunity to present their ongoing research. It’s a fantastic chance to not only share insights but also to forge meaningful scientific connections with fellow researchers from across the UK. \nGiven the limited space in Coventry University’s auditorium\, seats will be allocated on a first-come\, first-served basis. And for those travelling from outside Coventry\, we’re happy to contribute up to £50 per person towards the cost of 2nd class train or bus tickets (for up to 100 individuals\, selected on a first-come\, first-served basis). Just remember to keep a copy of your ticket for reimbursement. \nCan’t make it to Coventry? No problem—tune in online via our live stream and be part of the event wherever you are \n  \nREGISTER AS AN ATTENDEE\nEvent Terms and Conditions & GDPR\nEVENT  AGENDA\n \nCoventry University\, Techno Centre\, Technology Park\, 3 Puma Way\, Priory St\, CV1 5FB – and on-line \n\n\n\n13:00 – 14:00 \nDoors open for registration / Refreshments\n\n\n14:00 – 14:20\nWelcome remarks:\nAleksandra Krzywanska\, Polonium Foundation\nRichard Dashwood\, Deputy Vice–Chancellor (Research)\,  Coventry  University\n\n\n14:20 – 15:20\nPresentations of selected speakers:\nSocial Sciences Session\nAndreea Udrea\, University of Glasgow and Royal Holloway\, University of London \nZeina Mohamed\, “Navigating Sustainability Risks: How Boards”\, Coventry University\nEngineering\, Maths & Physical Sciences Session \nAntonio Costa\, “ATLAS Open Data for Education and Research“\, University of Manchester \nTaz Amietszajew\, “Horizon projects cross-section on monitoring tools”\, Coventry University \nComputer & Data Science Session Part 1 \nTeena Kumari\, “Applying Context-Awareness for Cyber security in Connected Vehicles”\, Coventry University\nQuestions and answers\n\n\n15:20- 15:45\nNetworking and refreshments\n\n\n15:45 – 16:45\nPresentations of selected speakers: \nComputer & Data Science Session Part 2\nChristophe Bastien\, “The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Computer Modelling in the Pedestrian Pre-Hospital Trauma Management”\, Coventry University \nMedical\, Life & Food Sciences Session\nPaloma García\, University of Birmingham \nCarlo Breda\, “RAB39B a new player in Parkinson’s Disease”\,  De Montfort University\nZuzanna Dzieniak\, ”Defining the spatial biology of the retina – shapes\, colours and everything in between”\, University College London \nAna Rita Sousa\, “Investigation of natural preservatives”\, University of Reading\nQuestions and answers\n\n\n16:45 –17:00:\nCONNECTS-UK presentation \nAnna Fumarola\, Project Manager CONNECTS-UK\n\n\n17:00–17:10\nAnnouncement of winner of best talk delivered by an early-career researcher\n\n\n17:10 – 18:00 \nNetworking reception \n\n\n\nThis Agenda is subject to updates and alterations.
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/connects-uk-european-researchers-in-the-uk/
LOCATION:Coventry University\, Coventry\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Research Showcase
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Grafico_pegado-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20240410T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20240410T213000
DTSTAMP:20240425T215343Z
CREATED:20240425T212108Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20240425T215343Z
UID:413-1712770200-1712784600@connects-uk.org
SUMMARY:CONNECTS-UK Launch event
DESCRIPTION:CONNECTS-UK took places on the 10th April 2024 at 17.30 BST (UK time) at Imperial College London (Exhibition Road SW7 2AZ. Room 200 – City and Guilds Building) and on-line. \nRead the press release of the event here and know the speakers who participated in this event.   \n\n\n\nCONNECTS-UK is a collaborative project conceptualised in 2022 by the scientific diasporas of Finland\, France\, Italy\, Poland\, Portugal\, Netherlands\, and Spain in the UK\, together with Native Scientists\,   with the main goal to strengthen EU-UK scientific collaboration and research mobility. This project\, funded by the European Union\, will run until the end of 2026\, an optimum timeframe following the UK successfully re-joining Horizon Europe. This event served to present the activities and objectives of CONNECTS-UK to EU researchers in the UK\, as well as to key stakeholders such as scientific attachés\, universities\, students\, journalists\, schools\, and all those interested in the project.  The afternoon offered also an opportunity to listen to prestigious researchers\, and engage with the CONNECTS -UK partners and sponsors. A networking reception was offered after the event. As space in the auditorium of Imperial College is limited\, the places were reserved on a first come\, first served basis. For those travelling from outside London\, we will contribute to the cost of travel (bus\, train\, etc. tickets) with up to 60 GBP per person (up to 100 people\, selected on a first come\, first served basis). Please note that those requesting the reimbursement will have to keep a copy of the purchase ticket. The event will be also broadcasted on-line via streaming.\n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n Event Terms and Conditions\nEvent GDPR information\n\n \nEVENT AGENDA\n \n\n\n\n\n\nWednesday\, April 10h\, 17:30 – 21:30 BST (UK time) Imperial College London  Exhibition Road SW7 2AZ. Room 200 – City and Guilds Building \n\n\n\n\n\n17:30 – 18:00\n\n\nDoors open for registration Refreshments\n\n\n\n\n18:00 – 18:20\n\n\nWelcome remarks Introduced by Anna Fumarola\, CONNECTS-UK Project Manager– Hugh Brady\, President of Imperial College London – Nicole Mannion\, Deputy Head of EU Delegation in UK\n\n\n\n\n18:20 – 18:30\n\n\nPresentation of CONNECTS-UK Javier Pardo Díaz\, Lead Applicant Representative\n\n\n\n\n18:30 – 18:50\n\n\nKeynote talk Yvonne McDermott Rees\, Professor of Law\, Swansea University Introduced by Dr. Niek Buurma\, Dutch Academic Network in UK\n\n\n\n\n18:55 – 19:25\n\n\nDiscussion Panel 1 CONNECTS-UK: Research shaping policyChaired by Virginia Alejandra Amigo Dotras\, CONNECTS-UK Policy and Research Analyst– Agata Nyga\, Research and Policy Lead\, Polonium Foundation – Carla Molteni\,  President\, Association of Italian Scientists in the UK (AISUK)– Diogo Martins\, President\, Portuguese Association of Students and Researchers in the UK (PARSUK) – Isabel Allgeyer\, Deputy Director Research Talent & European Programmes Department for Science\, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)– Sara Cerdas\, Member of European Parliament (remotely)\n\n\n\n\n19:25 – 19:45\n\n\nCoffee break\n\n\n\n\n19:45 – 20:15\n\n\nDiscussion Panel 2CONNECTS-UK: Building connections Chaired by Minh-Hà Pham\, Counsellor for Science and Technology\, Higher Education\, Research & Innovation Department\, Embassy of France in UK– Anna Napolitano\, Blog & News Chief-Editor\, Native Scientists  – Dajana Dzanovic\, Head of Global Research and Innovation Policy\, Universities UK International– Jean-Christophe Mauduit\, Member of the Board of the French Education and Research Network in UK (FERN-UK)– Jen Bardsley\, Global Head of Science for the British Council– Leire Leguina\, Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT)\n\n\n\n\n20:15 – 20:20\n\n\nConclusions and Call for Action   Arttu Rajantie\, Finnish Science Society and in UK\n\n\n\n\n20:20 – 21:30\n\n\nNetworking reception
URL:https://connects-uk.org/event/launch-event/
LOCATION:Imperial College Lodon\, Exhibition Road. Room 200 - City and Guilds Building\, London\, SW7 2AZ\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Networking
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://connects-uk.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/registrationgraphics-1-.jpg
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR