EULiST |

Delegation Visit from URJC and NTUA at Leibniz University Hannover

26/06/2026

18–19 June 2026 | Hannover, Germany

Leibniz University Hannover (LUH) welcomed a delegation from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC) and the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) on 18–19 June 2026 for a two-day collaborative visit within the EULiST Alliance.

The visit brought together faculty members, researchers, and university management from all three partner institutions to exchange insights, share ongoing activities, and identify concrete pathways for deeper collaboration in the areas of research, innovation, and outreach.

Programme Highlights

Day 1 – June 18

The first day opened with a welcome session at the TIB – Leibniz Information Centre for Science and Technology, followed by a full programme of joint presentations and discussions structured around two key work packages:

Outreach, Transfer & Communication (WP5) Representatives from LUH, NTUA, and URJC delivered impulse presentations on their respective activities, covering topics such as start-up ecosystems, science communication, technology transfer, and European network consolidation. Interactive sessions on cross-cutting topics provided space for in-depth exchange and networking.

Research & Innovation Concepts (WP4) The afternoon sessions focused on research collaboration, with presentations from all three universities on topics including part-time professorships, travel grants for young scientists, sustainability on campuses, digital twins, AI-enabled research, and European funding opportunities. Discussions centred on how to strengthen joint research activities over the next two years.

The day concluded with parallel bilateral meetings between faculty representatives and university management, allowing for focused discussions on strategic topics including quality assurance, consortium agreements, and the sustainable consolidation of the EULiST Alliance. Participants also had the opportunity to join an optional guided tour of the historic Welfenschloss and the Leibniz Calculating Machine, followed by a joint dinner.

Day 2 – June 19

The second day opened with a synthesis session on take-away messages and concrete impulses for future collaboration, before participants visited the Einstein Elevator — one of LUH’s flagship research facilities. The visit concluded with a closing lunch and farewell.

About the Visit

The delegation visit was designed to go beyond formal exchange and translate shared ideas into actionable plans.
Sessions were structured to be accessible to colleagues new to EULiST as well as those with deeper involvement, creating a foundation for faculty-level engagement across institutions.

We are grateful to all participants and speakers for their contributions, and look forward to the collaborations that will grow from these two days.

NTUA Ranked First in Greece in “QS World University Rankings 2027”

22/06/2026

Τhe National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), a member of the EULiST – European Universities Alliance, has once again been ranked as the leading university in Greece in the QS World University Rankings 2027, reaffirming its strong international reputation for academic excellence, research impact, and societal contribution.

NTUA ranked 378th worldwide among 1,504 institutions and remained the top-ranked university in Greece. Particularly notable is its research performance: the university ranks among the top 10% globally in the “Citations per Faculty” indicator, placing 173rd worldwide, while also recording strong results in the “International Research Network” indicator, reflecting the growing breadth of its international research collaborations.

The university also achieved significant progress in the QS Sustainability indicator, highlighting its commitment to sustainable development, energy-efficient infrastructure, and research aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. These results build on NTUA’s strong performance in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026, where it ranked 134th globally in Engineering & Technology.

As a member of the EULiST Alliance, the National Technical University of Athens actively contributes to fostering European cooperation in higher education, research, and innovation. Participation in EULiST has also played an important role in supporting NTUA’s digital transformation, advancing sustainability initiatives, creating new opportunities for early-career researchers, and enhancing the University’s international outlook through strategic partnerships and collaborative activities across Europe.

This latest achievement reflects not only NTUA’s outstanding academic and research performance, but also the transformative potential of European University Alliances in promoting excellence, innovation, and societal impact through long-term cooperation and shared ambition.

EULiST at the EU-CONEXUS Research Conference, Athens, 10–12 June 2026

15/06/2026

Professor Sotirios Karellas/ National Technical University of Athens participated as a representative of the “EULiST – European University” in the EU-CONEXUS Research Conference 2026, held in Athens on 10-12 June 2026.

The conference brought together academics, researchers, and stakeholders from across Europe to exchange knowledge and foster collaborations aimed at addressing contemporary societal and environmental challenges.

Professor S. Karellas took part in the session entitled “Research Area Structures in European University Alliances and Stakeholder Collaboration on Coastal Projects – Collaboration Opportunities”, alongside representatives of other European University Alliances that include Greek universities. The session focused on how alliances organize their research activities, leverage the research infrastructures of their member institutions, and develop collaborations with societal, institutional, and regional stakeholders.

During his presentation, Professor Karellas outlined EULiST’s vision and priorities in the fields of research and innovation, highlighting the Alliance’s efforts to strengthen interdisciplinary collaboration among its partners, establish joint research initiatives, and contribute to the development of a strong European knowledge and innovation ecosystem. He also emphasized the importance of connecting academic research with the needs of society and industry, as well as the role of European University Alliances in building long-term partnerships with meaningful societal impact.

EULiST’s participation in the conference provided an important opportunity to exchange experiences and best practices with other European Alliances, reaffirming the Alliance’s commitment to actively contributing to the strengthening of the European Research Area and to the development of collaborative solutions for future challenges.

Presentation by Prof. S. Karellas: https://u.pcloud.link/publink/show?code=XZMlWA5Zr2GGHQdKhWQKo0v3a0mGMfIUnsBV

University of Stuttgart at NTUA

29/05/2026

As part of efforts to further reinforce the EULiST Alliance following the inclusion of the University of Stuttgart as a new member, representatives of the German institution visited the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) on Friday, May 8, 2026. The visit aimed to promote closer ties and expand cooperation between the two universities.

The delegation from the University of Stuttgart included Ms. Rubina Zern-Breuer, Director of the TRACES Technology Transfer Center, and Ms. Lisa Kohler, Head of the School for Talents. With its participation as a Cooperation Partner of the Alliance, the University of Stuttgart is anticipated to contribute substantially to the development of EULiST’s research, innovation, and educational activities.

During their visit, the two representatives initially met with the NTUA Vice Rector for Research, Innovation and Extroversion, Professor Emmanouil Varvarigos. They were then welcomed at the NTUA Technology Transfer Office, where Mr. Stelios Vernardos guided them through the Office’s activities in the presence of Ms. Alkistis Poulakaki and Ms. Maria Fountoulaki. Discussions highlighted the Office’s essential role in connecting academic research with industry, the market, and society, while also emphasizing initiatives that support the transformation of innovative research outcomes into real-world applications, products, services, and entrepreneurial ventures. A concrete follow-up agreed on during the visit is to establish a closer link between the two universities’ transfer structures – the TRACES Transfer Center at the University of Stuttgart and the NTUA Technology Transfer Office – to leverage complementary expertise and amplify broader societal impact.

The program continued at the EULiST Office of NTUA, where future collaborative actions within the Alliance were explored together with the Scientific Coordinator of EULiST, Professor Emeritus Katerina Adam, the Head of the Department of International Relations and European Union and NTUA’s Local Coordinator for EULiST, Antonia Lampropoulou, and Melina Giannakopoulou from the EULiST Office.

The visit concluded with a meeting with the student team Odyceo NTUA. The guests were introduced to the team’s innovative projects, achievements, and entrepreneurial activities through presentations by team members Konstantinos Goudas, Giannos Stergiou, Stelios Mastorakis, and Alexandros Kollias.

Within the discussions regarding technology transfer, it was concluded that both universities seek to develop strategic international partnerships’ collaboration, to leverage complementary expertise, access diverse perspectives, and amplify the societal impact.

Within the discussions regarding activities to ensure the continuous upgrading of education for the next generation of talented graduates with a synthetic mindset and critical thinking, both universities agreed that numerous opportunities are already provided within the scientific disciplines and interdisciplinary teams. EULiST cooperation will enable the introduction of targeted training programs and curriculum upgrading for future generations of students, teachers, researchers and life-long learners ready to develop solutions for societal challenges through science.

This shift towards a society-centered linking with technology requires a commitment by EULiST partners, that this visit has once again justified.

LUT University hosted an EULiST BIP programme in Lappeenranta

25/05/2026

The programme showed how higher education can help build a sustainable future and respond to global challenges.

LUT University hosted an Erasmus+ funded Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) called Developing Global Citizenship through Interculturality and Sustainability in Lappeenranta, Finland, on 18–22 May 2026.

The programme welcomed over 30 students from eight EULiST partner universities. Five intercultural communication teachers from the alliance taught and supported the students. The BIP was hosted by the Language Centre and coordinated by Jaana Häkli, senior lecturer in intercultural communication.

This BIP was part of the EULiST Alliance Languages and Communication programme. It helped students become responsible and active members of a global society. Students practised cultural sensitivity and critical thinking. They also learned how to work well in multicultural teams.

Global citizenship in a Finnish environment

The programme started in April with three online sessions. In these sessions, students learned about Finnish culture, global citizenship, and sustainability thinking. They also worked online in teams on a research-based pre-assignment.

At the start of the on-site week in Lappeenranta, the teams presented their results. After that, they worked on an authentic sustainability-related challenge.

The week also included free-time activities. Students visited a Finnish sauna and took a cruise on Lake Saimaa. The long and light evenings in May are special for many visitors. Students joined from many European countries and from, for example, Brazil and India.

Multicultural learning and sustainability at the core

The programme focused on global citizenship, the Sustainable Development Goals, and intercultural communication. Students worked in multicultural teams during the whole week.

The students learned to notice cultural differences and used this knowledge in study and work settings. The programme also helped students act responsibly when they face social and environmental challenges. It supported the development of a global citizen identity.

International collaboration opens new perspectives

The programme brought together students from engineering, business, and social sciences. They worked together in international teams and learn from each other. This helped them build skills they will need in working life. The programme also encouraged values such as empathy, responsibility, and solidarity. These values support a sustainable and fair future.

Part of a broader shift in education

LUT University’s BIP was part of a wider change in education. Today, many universities focus more on global citizenship and sustainability.

The United Nations and UNESCO also highlight the role of education in building learners’ skills and capabilities. This programme supported that goal. It also showed how higher education can help build a sustainable future and respond to global challenges.

More information:

Jaana Häkli, Senior Lecturer in Intercultural Communication, jaana.hakli@lab.fi

EULiST General Assembly 2026: A Turning Point Toward Deep Integration and Strategic Growth

18/05/2026

From May 11th to 13th, the EULiST Alliance gathered at LUT University in Lappeenranta, Finland, for the 2026 General Assembly.

Three days of intensive workshops, strategic presentations, and high-level meetings marked a milestone transition from the alliance’s foundational years to a phase of “deep integration” and structural transformation.

New Leadership and Strategic Partnerships

The Assembly was a landmark for EULiST governance. Following a vote by the Governing Board, Måns Svensson (President of Jönköping University) was announced as the new Chair, with Jens Schneider (Rector of TU Wien) serving as Co-Chair for the 2026–2028 term.
The Management Board also welcomed its newly elected Co-Chairs, Maria Benedetta Mattei University of L’Aquila (UNIVAQ), and Olivier Epinette (IMT).
Student board members representing all member universities held a dedicated vote to choose their new leadership directly from among their peers. As a result, the newly elected Chairing Team of the Student Board consists of Adam Gašparovič from the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava (STU), Beatrice Ion from LUT University, and Cristiana Maria Muresanu from Universidad Rey Juan Carlos (URJC).
In a historic move for the alliance’s expansion, an official cooperation agreement was signed with the University of Stuttgart. As a new Cooperation Partner, Stuttgart will play a vital role in strengthening our joint research and innovation ecosystem.

From Activity to Transformation: Reviewing Our Progress & Strategy

The core of the Assembly was dedicated to assessing where we stand today and where we want to be by the 2035 horizon. Through comprehensive updates from the Governing Board, the Secretary General, the Management Board, and Work Package leaders and co-leaders, the alliance evaluated the past year’s progress, analyzed key performance indicators (KPIs), and openly addressed our future challenges and immediate priorities.

To ensure long-term institutional sustainability, the project writing team also held dedicated meetings during the Assembly to work on the upcoming EU project proposal, securing seamless continuity for the alliance.

Building Trust and Collaboration Through Interactivity

The entire event was driven by active participation. Rather than just listening to presentations, attendees actively shaped the alliance’s direction through panel discussions, Q&A sessions, and direct feedback surveys.

A central highlight was a powerful lecture on TRUST—the fundamental key to success for any organization, and a core pillar for EULiST as we deepen our institutional integration. Attendees also enjoyed insightful sessions on Finnish culture, providing a wonderful context to our hosting environment.

The main program concluded with presentations from the Coordination Office, where all Units – the backbone of our daily activities – showcased their achievements, plans, and challenges for the next phase.

Parallel working sessions across various WPs, boards, and units further maximized the value of this face-to-face gathering.

10 Countries, Now 11 Universities, One Single Team: Kiitos, LUT!

Beyond the intense program full of presentations, discussions, meetings, and interactions, the social and cultural activities proved that, despite coming from 10 different countries, EULiST operates as one united team.

The immense success of this General Assembly would not have been possible without the flawless organization and incredible hospitality of our hosts.

We extend our deepest gratitude to Rector Juha-Matti Saksa and the entire LUT University team for providing such an inspiring, welcoming, and beautiful campus environment that fostered deep collaboration, innovation, and lasting friendships.

Together, we are driving a true European transformation.

EULiST Alliance Announces New Leadership: Continuity and Vision for 2026–2028

17/05/2026

Following a recent vote by the EULiST Governing Board, the new leadership for the 2026–2028 term was officially announced during the General Assembly.

In a move that underscores stability and a shared vision for the future, Måns Svensson, President of Jönköping University, has been elected as Chair, and Jens Schneider, Rector of TU Wien, as Co-Chair of the EULiST Governing Board.

A significant moment of the Assembly was the official handover of leadership. The outgoing Chair, Ladislav Janíček (Rector of Brno University of Technology), and Co-Chair Juha-Matti Saksa (Rector of LUT University), passed the symbolic torch to their successors. The Alliance expressed deep gratitude to Rectors Ladislav Janíček and Juha-Matti Saksa for their foundational leadership and commitment during the early stages of EULiST.

The election saw unanimous support from the Rectors of all member institutions. This appointment reflects the Alliance’s commitment to leadership continuity, which is vital for the long-term sustainability and growth of our European University initiative.

Publication of the EULiST BIP Athens Booklet: “Resilient & Adaptive Cities – The Case Study of Agios Pavlos”

15/05/2026

The booklet documents the work developed during this EULiST BIP hosted by the School of Architecture of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), in collaboration with Leibniz University Hannover (LUH), TU Wien and Slovak University of Technology Bratislava (STU), with the participation of the Municipality of Athens and local stakeholders.

Focusing on the Agios Pavlos neighborhood in central Athens, students and academic staff explored issues of urban resilience, climate adaptation, social inclusion and sustainable regeneration through field research, mapping, participatory processes and interdisciplinary collaboration.

The publication presents seven thematic urban proposals addressing topics such as adaptive reuse of vacant buildings, enhancement of public and green spaces, urban microclimate, mobility, cultural heritage and climate-neutral strategies. The projects highlight the importance of context-sensitive and participatory approaches in shaping more resilient and sustainable urban futures.

The booklet reflects the collective work of 36 undergraduate and postgraduate students from four EULiST European universities and contributes to the ongoing dialogue on climate urban transformation in Athens and beyond.

Find the Booklet here.

EULiST is Strengthening its European Footprint: Welcoming the University of Stuttgart as a Cooperation Partner

12/05/2026

The EULiST Alliance is proud to announce a significant milestone in its expansion and strategic development. The University of Stuttgart has officially joined our community as a Cooperation Partner, paving the way for a deeper integration within the “European Universities” initiative.

A Shared Vision: Society and Technology

The addition of the University of Stuttgart is a natural evolution for EULiST. As one of Germany’s leading technically oriented universities, Stuttgart is renowned for its “Stuttgart Way” – a unique interdisciplinary approach that integrates engineering and natural sciences with the humanities and social sciences.

This philosophy directly mirrors the EULiST mission: linking society and technology to drive the green and digital transitions while strengthening social cohesion across Europe.

Building a Strategic Bridge to 2027 and Beyond

While the current EULiST project framework serves its ten founding members until the end of 2027, the Alliance is firmly focused on long-term sustainability. The inclusion of the University of Stuttgart as a Cooperation Partner acts as a strategic bridge:

Integration: Stuttgart will actively participate in the Alliance’s governing bodies in an observer capacity.
Co-creation: The partnership formalizes a collaborative path for future grant applications and joint initiatives under the European Commission’s forthcoming calls.
Excellence: The Alliance gains world-class expertise in research, innovation, and industry collaboration from one of Europe’s most vibrant industrial hubs.

“For EULiST, being a European University Alliance means bringing technology and society closer together by integrating STEM and the social sciences into one collaborative ecosystem. The University of Stuttgart, with its strong technical excellence and clear commitment to societal impact, is a natural partner to help us advance this mission,” says Ladislav Janicek, Chair of the EULiST Governing Board.

Group photo of all rectors together with the rector of the University of Stuttgart

Looking Ahead

By joining forces today, EULiST and the University of Stuttgart are building a foundation of trust and synergy. This partnership ensures that our future activities are built on a foundation of academic excellence, preparing the ground for Stuttgart to become a full member of our Alliance.

Welcome on board, University of Stuttgart!

More: Press Release

URJC Hosts EULiST WP5 Meeting

06/05/2026

The EULiST Alliance continues to strengthen its collaborative ties. On 27–28 April, representatives from partner universities gathered at Rey Juan Carlos University (URJC) for a WP5 meeting focused on research, innovation, and science outreach.

The two-day event served as a dynamic platform to review milestones and align strategic actions that will define the alliance’s outreach agenda in the coming years.

Strategic Milestones on the Horizon

A major highlight of the discussions was the preparation for upcoming flagship events that will bridge the gap between academia and society:

EULiST Interactive Conference “Make Science Matter” (Brussels, 2026): Set to be a major annual milestone, this event will engage external stakeholders and amplify EULiST’s impact beyond the university walls.
II Global Conference (Athens, 2027): Planning is already underway to bring global perspectives to our initiatives.
Final EULiST Interactive Conference (URJC, October 2027): A culminating multi-player event designed to showcase the results of all alliance projects.

Innovation, Open Science, and Synergy

Participants delved into the progress of various tasks, including the development of new European project proposals and workshops dedicated to science communication.

The meeting also underscored the importance of cross-cutting collaboration within the alliance, highlighting synergies such as:

The Citizen Science Office (CSO)
The upcoming Matchmaking Event at URJC (1–2 October 2026).
Future Summer Schools aimed at fostering deeper student and researcher engagement.

First-hand Look at URJC Infrastructure

Beyond the boardroom, the partners had the opportunity to visit the Móstoles campus. The tour included state-of-the-art audiovisual production facilities, robotics and computer laboratories, and modern teaching spaces, providing a first-hand look at the high-level infrastructure URJC brings to the alliance.