To actively participate in the development of European policies and priorities, the Université de Lorraine and its site partners publish position papers, expressing our strategic vision mainly in the fields of research and education. These documents are part of our active participation in the definition and construction of the European Research Area.
2025
Towards a renewed Framework Programme and Resarch & Innovation supporting european strategic sectors
The paper outlines the UL’s vision for a renewed European Framework Programme and Competitiveness Fund aimed at bolstering European strategic sectors and sovereignty. It proposes a seamless connection between research, innovation, and industrial competitiveness, suggesting targeted investments in areas like low-carbon energy, AI, digital technologies, health, and natural resources. Key recommendations include i) safeguarding research funding, ii) creating a European ARPA to accelerate breakthroughs, iii) mobilising innovation ecosystems, and iv) integrating social sciences and humanities to address societal changes and uphold European values. Finally, the university emphasises the critical role of skills development and research infrastructures in supporting these strategic sectors.
2025
For a Research and Competitiveness Fund or how the integration of FP10 into the competitiveness fund could strengthen the impact of European research.
This paper published by the UDICE network and co-authored by the UL, discusses the proposed integration of FP10 into a broader Competitiveness Fund. While acknowledging the need for this integration to combat technological and industrial barriers and strengthen Europe’s strategic autonomy, UDICE raises concerns about potential underfunding of fundamental research. The document supports that a successful integration requires respecting the non-fungibility of the research budget and ensuring the CF supports projects from early-stage research to market adoption, acting as an innovation driver. Finally, also proposes establishing a European ARPA-like agency to focus specifically on disruptive innovation in strategic sectors, alongside mechanisms to ensure geographical cohesion in funding distribution.
2024
Raw Materials at Stake: A Lorraine sit’s Manifesto for a comprehensive approach to research, innovation and skills
The manifesto, created after the Université de Lorraine’s event in April 2024, and addresses the EU’s critical raw materials challenges. It highlights the need for a comprehensive strategy encompassing research, innovation, and skills development to secure sustainable supply chains for green and digital technologies. The document proposes recommendations focusing on material substitution, circular economy practices through life cycle analysis, and improvements in education and training within the raw materials sector. Ultimately, the manifesto seeks to bolster Europe’s sovereignty and competitiveness in the crucial area of raw materials.
2024
Université de Lorraine’s response to the public consultation on Dual-Use technologies
The Université de Lorraine, responded to a consultation published by the Commission regarding dual-use technologies, which have both civilian and military applications. The UL is in favour of Option 2 due to incrementally adjusting the existing Horizon Europe programme to accommodate dual-use projects, provided it does not negatively impact funding for fundamental civil research and that military aspects are appropriately regulated to avoid hindering civil applications. The paper emphasises the need for a clear dual-use definition, balanced support for fundamental and applied research, and careful consideration of international collaboration and ethical implications.
2024
This position paper published by the EURECA-PRO network in which the Université de Lorraine is participating, outlines collaborative efforts with various European Commission entities and UNIDO focusing on responsible consumption and production within the EU. Their primary aim is to develop recommendations and foster future collaboration addressing the complexities of sustainable societal transitions. The paper presents ten specific recommendations designed to advance sustainable ecosystems, education, industrial transitions, research, and resource management across the European Union.
2024
Position paper of the Lorraine academic site on FP10
This position paper published by the Lorraine academic site outlines its position and recommendations for the upcoming EU’s 10th Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10). It emphasises the importance of maintaining sector-specific clusters alongside thematic partnerships and advocates for strengthened fundamental research within FP10. The paper also calls for encouraging innovative research through open calls, and discusses the integration of dual-use technologies with a need for increased budget. Furthermore, proposes the creation of an SSH umbrella cluster and suggests administrative simplification and harmonisation of operating rules to enhance participation. Finally, the document supports international scientific cooperation, consistent funding throughout the programming period, and aligning research, innovation, and education to serve strategic industrial sectors.
2024
Université de Lorraine position on the role of SSH research for the upcoming programming period 2028 to 2034
The Université de Lorraine outlines its position on the crucial role of Social Sciences and Humanities (SSH) research for the EU’s upcoming FP10 programming period (2028-2034). Drawing on recent reports highlighting the need for sustainable competitiveness and addressing societal challenges alongside green, digital, and industrial transitions, the university advocates for a more central and institutionalised focus on SSH research. The paper proposes the creation of a European Societal Challenges Council (ESC2) and a new framework for SSH-led interdisciplinary projects to analyse the social evolution linked to these transitions. Furthermore, it suggests a pilot SSH-led project within the current Horizon Europe programme to test and develop these ideas, using the energy transition as a concrete example to demonstrate the value of a primarily societal perspective in research.
2023
The Université de Lorraine’s proposal for the Horizon Europe mid-term review outlines its strengths and potential contributions to the European Green Deal’s objectives, particularly achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. The document details specific research areas where increased European support is sought, including territorial energy transition, sustainable material value chains, and zero-emission manufacturing. Furthermore, it addresses the bioeconomy, sustainable forestry, and cross-cutting themes such as integrating social sciences and humanities, boosting research skills, and enhancing international cooperation. The proposal also offers recommendations for improving the Horizon Europe programme itself, suggesting enhancements to funding mechanisms, participation rules, and the balance between different types of research projects.