The Secretary General of the CESAER network, Dr Mattias Björnmalm will be in Louvain-la-Neuve on September 12 to talk to us about a current issue: “Navigating the intersection of openness and security: challenges and opportunities for universities of science and technology”. The conference will take place in English (see abstract at the bottom of the message).
CESAER is an international association of 58 leading, research-intensive universities in science and technology, in 28 countries in Europe and beyond. Its members defend excellence in higher education, training, research and innovation, contribute to knowledge societies for a sustainable future and have a significant scientific, economic, social and societal impact. The organization is recognized and its positions listened to by the European Research Area (ERA), the European Education Area (EEA) and the European Universities Strategy. The meeting with Dr Mattias Björnmalm will also be an opportunity for SST members to get to know the CESAER network better.
What: Conference by the Secretary General of the CESAER network, Dr Mattias Björnmalm, the conference will be followed by an informal meeting over coffee.
When: Thursday September 12, 2024, at 2:30 p.m.
Where: OCEANE room (Serres building, Room B002, Croix du Sud, 2)
For the proper organization of the event, prior registration is obligatory (if free). Please take a few seconds to register via the link below:
Link for registration
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Abstract:
In a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, universities of science and technology are at the forefront of navigating the complex balance between maintaining open, collaborative scientific research and ensuring the security of sensitive knowledge and dual-use technologies. This talk will explore the challenges and opportunities presented by two pivotal concerns: keeping science open amidst increasing pressures for security, and the role of dual-use technologies in this context. Drawing from recent CESAER publications, we will discuss the implications of balancing openness of science with knowledge security, the evolving EU policies on dual-use technologies, and the strategies universities can adopt to uphold academic freedom while contributing to societal protection and defense. This session aims to provide insights and recommendations for university leaders, policymakers, and researchers committed to sustaining excellence in research, innovation, and education in an increasingly restricted global environment.