ANNUAL EVENT 2026
From Knowledge to Impact
Researchers Shaping the Future of Europe
Friday, 4 December 2026 · Milan, Italy
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expresses are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the National Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.
ABOUT THE EVENT
How can researchers shape the future of Europe?
From Knowledge to Impact is a one-day event bringing together researchers, university leaders, policymakers, industry representatives, and innovators to explore how research talent can drive meaningful change beyond academia.
Through inspiring conversations, shared experiences, and collaborative learning, the event connects research excellence with the future of policy, industry, innovation, and society.
Connections
Cross-sector dialogue
Research & Innovation
Europe invests significantly in research excellence and the development of highly skilled scientific talent.
Every year, universities and research institutions train researchers and PhD professionals with exceptional analytical capabilities, specialised knowledge, and the ability to address complex challenges.
Yet the potential of this talent remains underutilised beyond traditional academic boundaries.
Opportunities to apply researcher’s knowledge and capabilities in industry, policymaking, innovation, and institutional leadership are not always fully recognised or accessible to the researchers.
At the same time, European public institutions, businesses, and society increasingly need people who can navigate complexity, anticipate change, challenge established thinking, and translate knowledge into informed decisions and innovative solutions.
Join us to explore, share and collaborate on how the knowledge and talent Europe already develops can contribute more effectively to its future.
Programme at a glance
A day of dialogue, learning and collaboration.
Sessions, formats, and participation details will be confirmed closer to the event.
MORNING: From Research to Impact
Plenary sessions and discussions
A morning of thought-provoking conversations bringing together perspectives from academia, policymaking, industry, and innovation.
Through research insights, keynote contributions, panel discussions, and changemaker stories, we will explore the evolving role of researchers in shaping Europe’s future.
Key themes:
- Researchers as changemakers beyond academia
- The future of policymaking and research
- What society needs from research
- Leadership and new pathways for European impact
9:00 — ARRIVAL & COFFEE
9:30 — WELCOME SPEECH – 15 min
Opening Remarks
9:45 — SPEECH – 15 min
What Researchers Expect from the Future
What future do researchers envision for themselves and for Europe?
10:00 — ROUNDTABLE – 45 min
Beyond Academia: Researchers Driving Change
What role can researchers play beyond traditional academic boundaries?
10:45 — TESTIMONIALS – 15 min (5 min video + 10 min break)
Researcher Stories: Paths to Impact
What can we learn from researchers who are already creating impact beyond academia?
11:00 — PANEL – 35 min
From Research to Action: Lessons from Abroad
What can we learn from international experiences about turning research into action?
11:40 — PANEL – 35 min
What Society Needs from Research
How can research respond to the evolving needs of institutions, industry, policymakers, and society?
12:15 — CLOSING KEYNOTE – 15 min
Leadership for Europe’s Future
What capabilities do researchers need to lead change and shape the future?
AFTERNOON: From Insight to Practice
Networking, interactive workshops and collaborative learning
The afternoon will offer practical learning opportunities designed to strengthen the connections between research, professional development, policymaking, and institutional transformation.
TESAR | Research and Policy
Exploring how researchers can translate scientific knowledge into meaningful contributions to policymaking and public decision-making.
MITICORO | Leading Change Beyond Academia
Exploring the personal, interpersonal, and leadership capabilities that enable researchers and professionals to create impact across sectors.
12:30 — NETWORKING LUNCH – 1 hour 30 min
14:00 — PRESENTATIONS – 45 min – 5min pitches by partners + Q&A
Meet the TESAR partners
Partners pitches and opportunities for exchange: PAR, CRS LAGHI, SDU, MITICORO, SAVONIA, TSNUK
15:00 — WORKSHOPS – 45 min / 1 hour
Parallel Workshops
Four simultaneous workshops. Participants attend one workshop of their choice.
Preliminary topics: Policymaking & AI · Collaboration for impact ·Self-awareness & career anchors ·
Stakeholders management · others TBD
16:00 — NETWORKING – 15 min
Networking & Exchange
Informal conversations and opportunities to connect across workshop groups.
16:15 — CLOSING SPEECH – 15 min
Bringing Together Europe's Research and Innovation Ecosystem
The event will feature contributions from leaders and experts across academia, policymaking, industry and innovation. Speakers will be announced progressively.
ORGANISED BY
THE TESAR CONSORTIUM
TESAR brings together European partner organisations working to strengthen researchers’ engagement with evidence-informed policymaking. Co-funded by the Erasmus + EU funding programme.
Join us in Milan
Be part of the conversation on the future of research, leadership, policymaking and innovation in Europe.
Register to join institutional leaders, researchers, innovators and professionals committed to translating knowledge into meaningful impact.
Practical Information
Find answers to common questions about the event.
More details will be shared with registered participants closer to the date.
Where will the event take place?
The event will take place in Milan, Italy. The exact venue and arrival details will be communicated to registered participants once confirmed.
Who is the event intended for?
The morning plenary brings together researchers, PhD professionals, university leaders, policymakers, industry representatives, innovators, and the wider Miticoro and TESAR communities.
Please note that places are limited and participation is subject to a registration and selection process.
Does registering guarantee my participation?
No. Due to limited capacity of 200 participants, all registrations will be reviewed by the organising team.
Completing the registration form expresses your interest in attending but does not guarantee a place at the event. Your participation will be confirmed separately by email following the selection process.
Can I attend online?
Online participation is planned for selected parts of the programme. Further details on remote access and eligible sessions will be communicated as arrangements are finalised.
How can I participate in the afternoon workshops?
The afternoon will feature dedicated learning opportunities for TESAR participants and the Miticoro community. Places may be limited, and advance registration may be required. Further information will be shared with registered participants.
When will the detailed programme and speakers be announced?
The programme, speaker line-up, and workshop details will be updated on this page as they are confirmed.
How can I stay informed about event updates?
Register using the form on this page to receive relevant updates and practical information about the event.
Co-funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expresses are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the National Agency. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.