Around 100 researchers took part in a day designed to share knowledge, experiences and common challenges, as well as to reflect on the present and future of research and its impact on society.
In the opening session, Dr Román Pérez, vice-rector for Research, Innovation and Knowledge Transfer, emphasised the role of research as a fundamental tool for expanding the frontiers of knowledge and driving social transformation. Drawing on the example of the explorer and scientist James Cook, he underlined the importance of questioning what is taken for granted in order to move towards new discoveries and generate progress. “Research is one of the most transformative forces in society and, when people engage in dialogue and disciplines collaborate, ideas connect and the gaps in knowledge are progressively filled”, the vice-rector stated.
Funding research to shape the future
This was followed by the panel discussion Funding the Future, which brought together three leading experts in research management and funding: Dipti Pandya, president of the European Association of Research Managers and Administrators (EARMA) and director of Research at University College Dublin (UCD); Cristina Borràs, director of the International Area at AGAUR; and Almudena Carrero Escribano, head of the International Cooperation Department at the Large Research Infrastructures Unit of the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC).
The discussion addressed some of the main challenges currently facing research projects, from their international projection to the requirements for accessing public and private funding calls. The speakers emphasised the importance of designing projects capable of generating social impact and of building interdisciplinary teams able to tackle complex challenges from complementary perspectives.
The session also provided an opportunity to reflect on the growing role of artificial intelligence in research and to analyse how this technology is transforming processes of knowledge generation, innovation and transfer.
A personal perspective on the research career
The event continued with a presentation by Iñaki Permanyer, ICREA research professor at the Centre for Demographic Studies (CED), who shared his personal and professional experience in the field of research with attendees.
In a talk marked by openness and honesty, Permanyer reflected on the challenges, uncertainties and lessons that form part of any research career. “When I was invited to explain the key elements of a successful research career, I felt somewhat apprehensive. I do not believe there is a single way to conduct research; each researcher builds their own path, learning from both successes and mistakes”, he explained.
Drawing on his own experience, Permanyer emphasised perseverance, adaptability and the importance of making the most of unexpected opportunities. His remarks resonated strongly with the researchers in attendance, who shared their own reflections and experiences in a rich discussion on the challenges of academic and scientific careers.
Research Nexus UIC Barcelona concluded with the presentation of the team from the Vice-Rectorate for Research, Innovation and Knowledge Transfer, which supports researchers at every stage of the research process and reaffirms its commitment to promoting excellent, connected, interdisciplinary research with a transformative vocation.
