Research

High-level experts to advise the Commission on research and innovation policy

Published

4 weeks ago

February 9, 2026

Top experts of the ESIR group will continue providing the Commission with evidence-based policy advice to support the development of EU research and innovation (R&I) policy. Following the renewal of its mandate, the group held its inaugural plenary meeting on 6 February in Brussels.

ESIR brings together 21 renowned experts in economics, innovation policy, sustainability and technology. Coming from across Europe, some members have been reappointed from the previous mandate, while others are newly appointed.

At the inaugural meeting, members underlined the EU’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking and multidisciplinary collaboration in addressing major technological and geopolitical challenges. Interconnected crises and shifting global dynamics are creating new uncertainties for Europe’s economic and social development.

These challenges will shape ESIR’s work programme for 2026-27. The group agreed to focus in particular on strengthening Europe’s research and innovation capacity, boosting productivity and competitiveness, assessing the impacts of emerging technologies, supporting sustainable and inclusive transitions, and the growing need for cooperation in security and defence. The group will contribute analyses, insights and recommendations to inform research and innovation policies that support the EU’s top priorities.

Katherine Richardson, Professor at the University of Copenhagen was appointed Chair for the 2026-27 mandate. She also served as Chair during the previous 2024-25 mandate.

In its work, ESIR will address sustainability from multiple perspectives, including social and ecological transitions, citizen engagement, measurement of sustainable development, higher education and youth, digitalisation, the circular economy and governance. The group will engage with stakeholders to build an “ESIR Community” and produce policy briefs, organise outreach activities, disseminate its work through events and conferences, foster policy experimentation and propose solution-oriented policy initiatives based on a demand-driven approach.

Background

During its previous, third mandate (2024-25), ESIR examined dual-use technologies, systemic R&I strategies for long-term sustainability and the EU innovation divide. The group highlighted anticipatory governance to strengthen EU competitiveness while fostering inclusive and sustainable growth.