Europe and the Future of Innovation

ABSTRACT: Historically, Europe has shaped and was shaped by science and innovation. From the scientific revolution during the Renaissance and Enlightenment to the 19th century industrial revolution, Europe has been a focal point of scientific progress. After the Second World War, however, the US arguably became the centre of the world's scientific and innovation endeavours. In today’s multipolar world, with climate change, novel public health crises and societal transformations bringing new challenges, our collective future depends on science and innovation. The big question is: How can Europe further science and innovation? What are the ingredients of future innovation? What is this new wave of innovation about? What are our particular strengths and weaknesses?

Speaker: Carlos Moedas

A former civil engineer and economist, Carlos Moedas is a well-respected figure in European politics. From 2014-2019, he served as European Commissioner covering the portfolio of Research, Science and Innovation under of the leadership of President Jean-Claude Juncker. In this role, he designed the proposal for the Horizon Europe research and innovation framework.

Prior to this, he served as co-ordinator of Portugal’s Social Democratic Party Economic Research Unit, before being elected to Parliament in 2011. He was quickly appointed as under-Secretary of State in the Portuguese government and oversaw the implementation of key structural reforms.

Chair: Uta Staiger

Find more information on the UCL European Politics Series, including our full preliminary programme, here.