Abstract

How European University Alliances help Widening countries to increase their participation in EU Funding Programs: the case of AURORA

Marie Jadrnícková (Palacky University, Olomouc, Czech Republic)
Ignasi Salvadó – Estivill (Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain)

This discussion table will open the debate on how European University Alliances can be beneficial in transforming higher education in relation to the dynamic changes taking place within the European Research Area. The key topicalities that we want to address are: what are the concrete best practices and tools to increase our collaboration in international projects? What are the barriers and obstacles when developing and implementing these tools? Can being a part of a University Alliance substantially increase R&I collaborations? And can a common research strategy within the alliance attract more EU funding?

By working closely together in Aurora, we successfully implemented joint projects such as VERSA (Video gamEs foR Skills training) or MSCA - Doctoral Network joint proposals, and organised Info Days and thematic workshops. The working group of EU Research Managers meets regularly and creates an integrated and high-trust platform where we pool expertise and knowledge.

The session will be moderated by the representatives of two universities from the Aurora Alliance. It will showcase best practices and share tools developed within our consortium to help researchers and research support staff to raise the number of joint Aurora universities proposals. The long-term ambition is to install an Aurora pre-award office to prepare and monitor joint applications for EU funding. We welcome interaction and invite other alliances to voice their successes and challenges. This activity is aligned with the EARMA´s European Universities Initiative Thematic Group.