European Consortium of Innovative Universities

NO. 01/2018

Challenging conventional thinking COLOPHON

ECIU is the leading international tingham further strengthen the compe- FOREWORD consortium of research intensive titive position of the network. ‘Challen- universities, with collective ging conventional thinking’, as we call emphasis on innovation, this redefinition process, already leads creativity and societal impact, THE FUTURE OF to future-proof universities, you might driving the development of a say. There is, however, a big concern: knowledge-based economy. Europe has to make clear political choi- UNIVERSITIES ces in education, research and innova- www.eciu.org tion in order to stay competitive and give talents room to flourish. This, in our ECIU Magazine is a publication The university of the future, what does it opinion, has to lead to radical changes of the ECIU PR-Group and look like? Or, to put it in another way: do in budget priorities. We are making sure was created in collaboration universities, as we know them today, still this is heard in Brussels. with U-Today, the independent have a future? One thing may be clear, journalistic medium at the for a start: society’s expectations are sky So far so good. Mission accomplished, University of Twente. high. They should be. We have to offer you might say. But let’s be honest: isn’t study programmes that match trends that conventional thinking as well? I Editorial team like digitalization and large-scale availa- already mentioned the changes in the U-Today & PR-Group ECIU bility of knowledge. Current and future way young people deal with knowledge This edition was created by generations of students simply have and creativity. Add to that the rapidly Maaike Platvoet (editor-in-chief a different approach to learning and changing labour market and a growing at U-Today), Sandra Pool (editor knowledge. We have to do research with need for lifelong learning, and you at U-Today), Rik Visschedijk, an impact that goes beyond citation in- might raise the question if there is still Michaela Nesvarova, Rense dices. Society expects us to play a deci- a future for universities with their fixed Kuipers and Jelle Posthuma sive role in the sustainable development programmes and structures. Innovative (editorial team of U-Today), goals of the United Nations, for example. frontrunners like the ECIU universities Katrin Dircksen (Secretary ECIU), For this, we have to build networks with shouldn’t be afraid of questioning the Hinke Mulder (Strategic PR industry, governments and NGO’s, in our university system as a whole. After 20 Manager UT) own region as well as worldwide. years of existence, we simply can’t sit back and relax: we would lose our com- Coordinated by The members of the European Consor- petitive edge in very short time. We will Sandra Pool & tium of Innovative Universities (ECIU) have to stay sharp. Katrin Dircksen are all the living proof of this vision. They introduced new teaching models This magazine shows some great exam- Design and layout by and, by doing so, inspired each other ples of the way ECIU universities work, Marloes Jansink, within the network. They all act as engi- innovating teaching and research and design agency Vanille nes of regional transformation, intro- enhancing academic leadership. (www.ikwilvanille.nl) ducing new technology and innovative Challenge us! business in their respective regions. Printed by New partners like Tampere University of Victor van der Chijs, SMG Group Technology and the University of Not- President, ECIU (www.smg-groep.nl)

12 UNIVERSITIES

Aalborg Universitat Tampere Kaunas University Tecnológico University Autònoma University of University of of Twente de Monterrey de Barcelona Technology Technology

Hamburg Linköping Dublin City University University University of University University University of Aveiro of Nottingham Technology of Stavanger Photo Rikkert Harink CONTENT

4 QUESTIONS ABOUT ECIU 04

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR STUDY 06

ECIU OFFICE BRUSSELS 10

STAFF EXCHANGE 12

INFOGRAPHIC 14

THE RUNIN PROJECT 16

EDUCATIONAL INNOVATION 19

ENTREPRENEURSHIP 22

20 YEARS OF ECIU 24

LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME 26

7 THEMES

Innovation Cooperation Education

Regional Science Entrepreneurship Mobility development A success story of like-minded friends

What do they represent? What is their key focus and where do they find each other? Four questions for Katrin Dircksen, ECIU Secretary General, about the European Consortium of Innovative Universities.

What is ECIU all about? Why is this collaboration ‘It is a consortium of twelve young so important? universities that share their core values. ‘We speak with a single voice and pro- Innovation and entrepreneurship are in tect our interests together, for example the DNA of our members. We all come in our dealings with the European Union. from regions where the economy came Universities are hardly heard as a single under pressure following the decline of institution. Instead, they have a voice traditional sectors such as textile and with impact as a member of a group of shipping. The universities are the result likeminded universities. The advantage of a regional need to have highly educa- for policy makers is that they speak to a ted people for the economy of the futu- group of universities across Europe with re and to develop new industries. That a long track record in regional innova- is why all partners have very close ties tion, entrepreneurship and innovative to their region and the industry, while teaching. This lobby allows us to put also having an international mindset.’ important themes on the agenda and promote our expertise.’ What does the consortium do? ‘We know each other very well. We What does the future learn from each other about governan- hold for the ECIU? ce, the structure of our education and ‘The world around us is changing rapidly entrepreneurship. We all value mobility and we face new questions from society and internationalisation and we encou- and industries. We want to create signifi- rage our employees and students to cant impact on society. That is why seek out collaboration. We do that by we embrace our role as life-long edu- offering shared minors, joint masters, cators. With interdisciplinary research, and travel grants for researchers. Pro- open innovation and international edu- ject- and problem-based learning are at cation we link our universities to society. the core of the ECIU universities’ educa- In ECIU our shared background and tion. Students combine theoretical and values are crucial for our collaboration. practical aspects so they are optimally We will continue our efforts to make a prepared for the world of tomorrow.’ difference at regional, national and inter- national level.’ Text Rik Visschedijk Photo A success story of Gijs van Ouwerkerk like-minded friends

‘We have a voice with impact’ Make the most

of your study

Text Rik Visschedijk

Students from the ECIU partner universities can Anthony Liew make the most of their studies by choosing one Anthony Liew is enrolled in the joint master Cities & Sustainability at the of the two available joint masters: Cities & Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. He travelled all the way from Australia Sustainability or Global Technology and Innovation for this master’s programme.

Management & Entrepreneurship. You study at Why did you choose this master? ‘Our world is becoming increasingly different universities of your choice. Two students connected. That is especially true for my studies. I love the fact that you study talk about their experiences. and work together with people from different cultures. That expands your ho- rizon. As an Australian, I always wanted to go to Europe. This master’s program- Malte David Krohn me gives me the opportunity to make it more than just a holiday. I have already Malte David Krohn of the Hamburg What did you do? made a ton of new friends from all kinds University of Technology (TUHH) finished ‘Half my lectures were in Hamburg. of cultures. It has enriched my life.’ the Global Innovation Management (GIM) During my second year, I attended the master’s programme last year and is now University of Strathclyde in Scotland. The Would you recommend a PhD researcher in Hamburg. international aspect made this a remarka- this programme? ble learning experience. This programme ‘Just go for it,’ he says. ‘It challenges you Why did you choose this master? is not only unique because of the contact to bring out the best in yourself. It can ‘I have a bachelor’s degree in engi- you have with other international stu- only be good for you to enrol in a study neering and I wanted to do something dents, but also because of the broader programme in a new field. On top of different for my master. In the end, I perspective on innovation management that, you develop a whole lot of new chose this programme. I do not regret that it instils.’ social contacts.’ my decision, although it was not an ob- vious choice per se. Tuition fees in Ger- Would you recommend ECIU partners Cities & Sustainability: many are very low, which was not the this programme? Aalborg, Aveiro, Barcelona case for the GIM master’s programme. ‘Yes. As a PhD, I am now working on the and Hamburg. The fact that I still chose this program- follow-up to this master’s programme, me proves how motivated I was. It was together with five partner universities. ECIU partner Global Technology and In- clear that my fellow students shared This will make the programme even bet- novation Management & Entrepreneur- this intrinsic motivation.’ ter and more comprehensive.’ ship: Aalborg, Kanaus and Hamburg. Mechanical Engineering

Alonso, Guillermo and Saul came all the way from Mexico to Stavanger to study mechanical engineering. They are pioneers in a new, tailor-made exchange programme for ECIU students.

‘The way of teaching is different’, says Guillermo Mortera. ‘Here, you are more independent. You need to decide for yourself whether you go to class or not.’ Saul Rivera enjoyed the close ties between theory and practice. ‘I like that the laboratory work is complementary to theory. I was a bit lost in one course, but when we did the lab exercises, it all made sense and I understood everything.’

This is the first ECIU minor programme other ones are expected to follow. You can find the offer on the ECIU website: www.eciu.org/for-students/ minor-programmes

Exchange students Saul Rivera, Alonso Macias and Guillermo Mortera in the mech lab at UiS.

Minor programme

The ECIU Minor programmes allow students to spend a semester at a like- apply at their home institutions, where minded ECIU partner university. Students can choose their host university they follow the rules and procedures of themselves, as each of the partners offers different courses and specializations student selection for exchange studies. completely in English. There are for example thirteen modules available for In the programme, the home university Mechanical Engineering, starting in spring and autumn. recognizes the credits awarded by the host university. Students do not need to Why should I go for an ECIU Minor? excellent study experience at a well- pay tuition to the host university and The ECIU Minors are a fixed set of pre- known and like-minded partner instituti- they will receive help finding accommo- approved courses of 30 ECTS. They fit on of the ECIU network. dations for their stay abroad. There is into the curriculum set of courses at your the possibility to apply for Erasmus+ home institution. Credits will be fully How to apply? scholarships. After successfully comple- recognized. The ECIU Minors are suitable The ECIU universities have made several ting the module, the students will receive for groups of students and offer an seats available for each partner. Students an ECIU certificate. Outside the

lecture halls

The ECIU not only offers innovative mobility products to the students. The international consortium is about more than just studying. Take the Student Union (SU) from the University of Twente (UT), for example. They went to partner university Nottingham to take a look at how their colleagues work. Or what about the largest relay race in the world, the Batavierenrace? An ECIU student team participated in 2016. Text Jelle Posthuma

‘We learned from the best’ ‘Because the Student Unions in the UK experience that helped us to learn from are so large and have been around for each other. We wanted to achieve some- The SU board from Enschede visited so long, we were able to learn from the thing together. You might view that as a its fellow administrators in the English best.’ metaphor for the ECIU collaboration.’ city of Nottingham. They went there for inspiration. With success, because they ‘I felt responsible to ‘We ended up in 30th place. Many of our returned home with some excellent new represent my university runners came first or second on their ideas. in the ECIU team’ individual stages. We had the fastest runner to cross the finish line on the final ‘In the UK, all universities must have a The Batavierenrace is an annual relay track, outrunning all other competitors Union,’ explains Jordi Weggemans (UT). race in the Netherlands with thousands with impressive speed of 20.63 km/h. ‘In the Netherlands, only the Universi- of participants and a 175-kilometre-long During the event, we slept in a tent on ty of Twente has a Student Union. The route that leads from Nijmegen to the campus and that was a wonderful scope of the SU in Nottingham cannot Enschede, making it one of the biggest experience as well. After the race, there be compared to ours. Their organisa- student races in the world. In 2016, an was a big party. When I think back on tion is much bigger and employs 90 ECIU running team participated in the the event now, I experience the positive full-timers. We learned a lot from them, race for the first time. emotions all over again.’ particularly regarding business operati- ons. The money that students spend, for One of the ECIU participants was the Li- The international ECIU team is also parti- example in the university bar, flows right thuanian PhD student Egle Vaičiukynaite cipating in this year´s Batavierenrace. back to the Union. The SU then invests from Kaunas University of Technology. this money in facilities for the students.’ ‘It was a huge challenge for me,’ says Vaičiukynaite. ‘I am not an athlete, whe- They also returned home with some reas a large part of the ECIU group were concrete ideas. ‘In Nottingham, there well-trained runners. I had to train hard are no lectures on Wednesday after- to finish my stage (7.4 km). It was nice to noons. That gives students more time have this goal and as a PhD student, it is to pursue activism and sports. This great to run and to refresh your mind.’ year, we will evaluate whether students here in Enschede are interested in a ‘A bachelor’s, a master’s and a PhD similar system.’ student from our university took part in the race. I felt responsible to represent This proposal exemplifies the usefulness my university. At the same time, it was of the work visit in the context of the really nice to meet other team members ECIU. In addition to Nottingham, the and leaders. It was a great experience. administrators from Twente also looked Although we were all different, we felt Egle Vaičiukynaite at universities in London and Oxford. like a team. We all had different skills and

‘NO LECTURES ON WEDNESDAY AFTERNOONS’ ‘Ideally, everyone in Brussels will soon know ECIU’

She is the first ECIU staff member to be based in Brussels. Law at the University of Amsterdam in 2014, she worked for the Netherlands Olga Wessels, aged 27, is head of the ECIU office in the European House for Education and Research in Brussels. An umbrella organization for capital, which opened in October 2017. Her objective is to guide everyone in the Netherlands involved in education and research. ‘As a po- ECIU member universities through the European jungle. ‘It is a licy officer, I kept stakeholders in the Netherlands informed of European policy hierarchical work field, and you need to know your way around.’ developments in the fields of research, innovation and education. Additional- ly, I represented the universities of the Netherlands in Brussels.’ In her bright red pleated dress, black therefore, a frequent visitor of the Direc- jacket and high heels, Olga strikes an torate General (DG) for Education and She has now been living in the Belgian elegant figure in Brussels. She leads the Culture and the DG for Research and In- capital for three years. She and her hus- way for her guests in an elegant building novation. The highly hierarchical structure band have an apartment just outside the at the Tervurenlaan. This also is where of the European organization does not office district of Brussels. She sometimes the Brussels Office of Aalborg Universi- daunt her. ‘You need to know your way misses the cultural scene of Amster- ty is located. A stately curving wooden around and know who to turn to. I know dam. ‘I love the theatre, the ballet and staircase leads to the offices, where Olga many routes and I can provide the ECIU art house films. Unfortunately the offer has her workplace. At present, she is the member universities with the right means in that respect is more limited, here.’ Her only staff member of the ECIU office. to do their work properly.’ love of art and culture was what she grew At the time of our visit, she had been in up with. She was born and raised in Arn- her new job for only two months, but According to Wessels the time has come hem. She studied in Nijmegen and then she was already full of ideas and plans. for ECIU to send out a joint message. moved to Amsterdam for her master. ‘Ideally, everyone in Brussels will soon ‘Brexit was a wake-up call for Europe. ‘Each year, three European Law students know ECIU,’ she says enthusiastically. ‘As The EU is re-inventing itself. Everything is attend the exchange programme at the a consortium, we are consulted when changing, and this is the perfect time to Fordham University in New York, USA. the European Commission (EC) prepares make your voice heard.’ She continues: Who wouldn’t want that?’ Wessels pas- new legislation for research, innovation ‘Europe has many old universities. Full of sed the selection. This foreign adventure and education.’ traditions, highly hierarchical, and with a changed her perspective of the world. strong focus on fundamental research. ‘Those six months were very rewarding. Joint forces Our members are creative universities, We were a mix of many different cultures Wessels’ role is to represent the interests unconventional, not afraid of change, and and it made me very much aware of my of ECIU in Brussels. ‘There are over 850 focused on entrepreneurship and inno- Dutch background.’ universities in Europe. A single university vation. As a consortium we would like to cannot achieve much. That is why twelve get involved with the policy makers, and Her job at ECIU means that she can live universities have joined forces to make express our opinions and points of view. her international dream. She has quite a their voices heard. For example, entrepre- This is a good time, because of the deve- number of business trips lined up to get neurship is a high priority for ECIU. To- lopment of the new European program- to know all members. ‘This is something I gether, we are able to express our wishes mes for research, innovation look forward to.’ in this respect in Europe and make sure and education.’ we are noticed.’ Time is up for now. It is time for Olga’s The right skills next appointment. She dons her coat and It is Olga’s mission to make sure the mes- Wessels has the right skills to make a scarf, and off she is to the town centre on sage reaches the right persons. She is, difference. After her master in European her bicycle. She is Dutch after all! Text Contact details Sandra Pool Photo Olga Wessels, Jean-Yves Limet Head of ECIU Office Brussels, Avenue de Tervueren 35, 1040 Brussels, Belgium. +32 483680182 [email protected]

‘I know many routes and I can provide the ECIU member universities with the right means to do their work properly’ Staff exchange:

‘Don’t be

afraid of obstacles’

Why go on vacation when work is so much more fun? Within ECIU, supporting staff can go on exchange to other universities. There is even a special Staff Mobility Programme, including local coordinators who can help you out. Programme coordinator Lise Thorup-Pedersen (Aalborg University) shares her view on staff mobility: ‘It truly is a rewarding Corrie Huijs experience for both guests and hosts.’ From University of Twente to Dublin City University: An enriching new experience in a diffe- works best for both parties. Hosts don’t ‘I went to Dublin for five weeks, a good rent environment, but also work that’s get annoyed by you as a guest and they experience to see how other people similar to what you do at your own uni- can prepare a program or project for work. For people who want to participa- versity. According to Lise Thorup- you to work on. And as a guest, it’s quite te in the program, I would recommend Pedersen, staff exchange gives you the well manageable to be away from home to have a clear goal to work towards or best of both worlds. ‘It’s a great way for one week.’ a project you can work on. My visit was to get to know people and practices mostly focused on online education and outside of your own university bubble. Thorup-Pedersen believes that a lot distance learning. It became clear to me More often than not, staff exchange more people within the ECIU network that preparation is key: scripts have to can lead to revelations for both guests can make use of the Staff Mobility be written out and you need to make and hosts. When you’re visiting another Programme. ‘But I’ve noticed that many sure that nothing goes wrong on the university, you can learn from their best people see obstacles that are quite easy technical side. There’s more to it than practices. But they can also learn from to overcome, especially on the practi- meets the eye. Of course, I loved the city you as a guest. In a way, it’s a moment cal side of things. Think for instance of of Dublin. Everyone was very hospitable for everyone involved to reflect on what language barriers. Or leaving your home, and kind to me. Because my stay started they are doing.’ family and possibly pet behind. Don’t out with a two-day seminar, it was a be afraid of those obstacles, would be great opportunity to get to know a lot Usually, a stay for one workweek is a my main message. Communication and of people. I would definitely recommend kind of sweet spot, says Thorup-Pe- expectation management is key, it’ll the program. Suffice to say, make sure dersen. ‘As a guest, you don’t want alleviate any concerns people might you prepare well for your visit. Especially to overstay your welcome. In my ten have. In the end, staff exchange truly is regarding the small practical stuff that years’ experience with the Staff Mobility a rewarding experience for both guests easily gets overlooked. That goes for Programme, I’ve learned that one week and hosts.’ both guests and hosts.’

‘It’s a great way to get to know people and practices outside of your own university bubble’ Text Rense Kuipers

What about the academic staff?

ECIU recently launched a Research Mobility Fund, aiming to increase collaboration amongst its researchers. This mobility fund is an incentive for early career researchers to explore and deepen collaboration within the ECIU network. Prof. Asta Pundziene, Vice Rector for Research and Profes- sor at Kaunas University of Techno- Vilma Karoblienė logy, is one of the initiators.

From Kaunas University of Technology ‘We perceive What is the importance of a special to University of Twente: fund for young researchers? ‘I had a great opportunity to visit the the Researcher ‘Spreading of diverse knowledge and University of Twente and to find out experience is most of the time a stimu- how colleagues are working on activi- Mobility Fund as lus for innovation. Innovation is within ties related to research and innovation the DNA of ECIU, and as well as in each projects. I was certainly impressed by an excellent tool member university. We perceive the their experience and I am eager to visit Researcher Mobility Fund as an excellent another ECIU university. These visits to accelerate tool to accelerate knowledge and expe- can help to combine all the strengths of rience diffusion among the researchers, ECIU members in order to have as much knowledge and especially those of early career, resulting possibilities in R&I project activities and with joint research activities that leads other common fields. It really helps to experience’ to their career advancement as well as have programs for sharing good practi- breakthrough innovations.’ ces, in order to combine competences and implement future joint innovative What do you expect of the fund? and multidisciplinary projects of ECIU My personal expectations are very high members.’ in terms of the number of researchers applying to the fund, number of the How to apply? How to apply? scholar visits as well as the number of joint research initiatives springing from Visit the ECIU website: www.eciu.org/ Visit the ECIU website: the visits. I also see the Research Mo- for-staff/staff-mobility-programme to www.eciu.org/for-staff/ bility Fund as a first step in warming download the application form and get research-mobility-fund up ECIU member universities research in touch with your local coordinator. and innovation collaboration, building researchers’ liaisons and networks in identified research areas common to all ECIU member universities. A next step? Designing ECIU support framework for joint small scale or “seed” research and innovation projects, that could become a relevant starting point for greater rese- arch and innovation ambitions.’ SINCE 1974 SINCE 2004

AALBORG UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF STAVANGER

24.000 STUDENTS 5.000 STAFF 12.000 STUDENTS 1.600 STAFF

Ranked as the best European Produces more business ideas per researcher university for engineering. than any other university in Norway.

SINCE 1989 The 12 universities

DUBLIN CITY UNIVERSITY of ECIU

Infographic made by 17.000 STUDENTS 3.000 STAFF Marieke Abbink

Ireland’s University of Enterprise, leading for licensing and innovation partnerships with SMEs and multinational companies.

SINCE 1948

UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM Mexico, Monterrey

44.520 STUDENTS 8.293 STAFF

Has a £1.1bn economic impact on the UK every year.

SINCE SINCE 1943 1973

TECNOLÓGICO DE MONTERREY UNIVERSITY OF AVEIRO

89.641 STUDENTS 10.117 STAFF 15.000 STUDENTS 1.650 STAFF

Is in the Top 25 Undergraduate Schools Best practice by the National Strategic (NO. 14) of the Princeton Review’s Top Reference Framework Observatory, Schools for Entrepreneurship Studies for 2018. for its close cooperation with the region. SINCE SINCE 1922 1965

TAMPERE UNIVERSITY KAUNAS UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY OF TECHNOLOGY

8.000 STUDENTS 1.600 STAFF 9.818 STUDENTS 2.112 STAFF

Ranked on the 11th position in the world, and 4th Return on Investment of business in Europe for industry collaboration according to incubator Startup Space is 600 % - taxes THE rankings. paid by startups in 5 years exceed the investment of the KTU 6 times.

SINCE 1975

LINKÖPING UNIVERSITY

27.000 STUDENTS 4.000 STAFF

Produced the highest number of innovative spinouts in Sweden during the last decade.

SINCE 1978

HAMBURG UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY

7.620 STUDENTS 708 STAFF

Offers one of the top 5 combined Management and Engineering study degree programs in Germany.

SINCE 1968 SINCE 1964 UNIVERSITAT AUTÒNOMA DE BARCELONA UNIVERSITY OF TWENTE

34.080 STUDENTS 10.314 STAFF 11.000 STUDENTS 2.950 STAFF

Led the UAB-CIE Sphere, comprising of scientific, Europe’s most entrepreneurial technological and business parks, multinational university with more than companies, SMEs, foundations and city councils. 700 spin-offs. Text Michaela Nesvarova The RUNIN Project

The Role of Universities in Innovation Engines of regional transformation

Universities are more than ‘just schools’. They are homes to brandnew tech- nologies, clever gadgets, ground-breaking discoveries and tons of know- ledge. One of their missions is to contribute all of these resources to the regi- onal industry and innovation. Yet, that isn’t an easy task. The RUNIN project is exploring how universities can be the drivers of local development. Involved universities

• Aalborg University The program trains PhD researchers on universities can use to promote regional how universities contribute to innovation development. RUNIN has a broader and • Linköping University and economic growth in their regions. more interdisciplinary approach than As one of the involved researchers Rid- previous research on this topic.’ • Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona van Cinar says: ‘We have many societal challenges at the European level and ‘A huge amount of applications’ • University of Aveiro those aren’t specific to only one regi- The RUNIN project involves regional on. This large scale project can help us development agencies and seven • University of Stavanger resolve these challenges, because each universities, six of which are ECIU part- involved university focuses on a diffe- ner universities and it officially started • University of Twente rent point of view. There is an enormous in August 2016, after being initiated by amount of knowledge and resources the University of Stavanger.It involves 14 • Lincoln University at universities, but they are not tapped PhD researchers, distributed across the into. People in the regions still feel left participating institutes. ‘The recruitment (not a member of ECIU) behind. That is why we need projects of PhD students was very competitive. like RUNIN.’ We received a huge amount of applicati- ons,’ says Rune Dahl Fitjar. ‘The selected RUNIN has a broader approach researchers are getting a different and ‘All the participating universities are in- more extensive PhD education. They will terested in contributing to their respec- cover eight courses, go on exchanges tive regions, but believe that there isn’t to different universities and spend a day enough information on how to do that. a week - or an extended period – wor- Which is how the idea for the project king outside of the university. This will originated,’ explains Rune Dahl Fitjar, provide them with a more comprehen- the project leader and a professor at sive academic training and, after they the University of Stavanger. ‘We want graduate, allow them to freely decide to explore many different ways that where they want to work.’

‘The selected researchers are getting a different and more extensive PhD education’ Three PhD researchers share why they decided to spend three years of their lives working on the RUNIN project.

Home university fore also many different supervisors. It is University of Aveiro important for me that I can visit various universities. So far we’ve had three trai- Exchange visit at nings all over Europe and thanks to these University of Twente social meetings you really get to know the people. That has been extremely Topic of PhD research beneficial for me. We are a very diverse How universities adapt to new forms group of researchers: with different cultu- of innovation and entrepreneurship, ral backgrounds and from different walks Ridvan Cinar with special focus on social innovation of life, including academia and industry. and social entrepreneurship And most importantly we are all from ‘RUNIN requires us to different disciplines, which I consider the ‘I got accepted at several PhD positions, main driver of the project. Because this look at things from many but I chose this one because it comes research requires us to look at things different perspectives’ together with a big network, and there- from many different perspectives.’

Home university a common purpose: conducting rese- Linköping University arch with a goal of delivery for the Euro- pean Commission. Secondly, the subject Exchange visit at of the thesis and its multi-disciplinary Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona aspect. Until now, my participation in RUNIN has brought me a lot. I appreci- Topic of PhD research ate the international and multi-discipli- Doctoral education for the future nary collaboration within the project. It labour market also provides me with an image and le- Eloïse Germain gitimacy when conducting my research, ‘While I was looking for a PhD position, particularly when asking for interviews. I ‘I expect that RUNIN two main reasons made me choose the see the relevance of the RUNIN project. RUNIN project among other possibilities. I expect it to provide useful research for provides useful research Firstly, the perspective of a European policy makers, universities, applicable to for policy makers’ collaboration in a common project, with specific regional situations.’

Home university environment. The project provides the op- Universitat Autònoma portunity of mobility, knowledge exchange de Barcelona with different people in the world, and hence allows me to grow personally and Exchange visit at professionally. The dynamics of the project Aalborg University give a positive “pressure” of self-develop- ment and I especially appreciate the Topic of PhD research friendship shared with my colleagues. The Development of the Quadruple Helix Model mobility of the project also helps me to Huong Nguyen in which four stakeholders of Academia, grow and understand the issues in diverse Governments, Industry and Citizens/Users environments. Due to the characteristics ‘The project allows work together for innovation purposes of my topic, I have the privilege of discus- sing with different people working on open me to grow personally ‘People say if you wish to travel to a big and collaborative innovation issues. I also and professionally’ sea, go with a big ship. I believed that the have the chance to meet citizens generally project would help me realize my goal of and see how passionate they are about becoming a researcher in an international contributing to the innovation of regions.’ The RUNIN Project ‘We strive for bridging academia, industry and other participants’

The RUNIN project is funded through the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions, a large EU programme providing mobility research grants. To receive one of these grants, you have to fight off some strong competition. Przemyslaw Jankowski, Policy Officer at the European Commission (EC), explains why the RUNIN project succeeded.

What made the RUNIN We strive for bridging academia, who come from all over the world and project stand out? industry and other participants.’ who evaluate the proposals based on ‘It is innovative and it replies to certain their excellence, implementation and im- needs in social sciences. The reasoning Why is it important for the EC pact of the project. We mainly focus on behind RUNIN and its outcome is rather to support projects like RUNIN? the general quality of training offered unique. On top of that, the quality of ‘We support initiatives from all disci- to young researchers. We want to equip the participating institutions is very plines and don’t have a singular focus young researchers with skills that allow high. And it’s a diverse group. The on one domain. Every year we receive them to be resilient and flexible, so that project combines many institutes from about 1700 proposals and only around after receiving their doctorate they are different countries. The project involves 140 are selected. The RUNIN project able to work within industry, start their also non-academic partners. This was one of them. The projects are se- own company or stay in academia.’ is something we strongly support. lected by independent experts,

Social innovation through education and research

ECIU will take part in a European research project on improving community and stakeholders to monitor, measure engagement in higher education. The project will receive a € 500,000 funding and promote community engagement from the Erasmus+ programme, an EU funding scheme supporting education, by universities that will be transferable training, youth and sport. at a European policy level.

In line with the vision of the ECIU, the where major industries have declined. ECIU will contribute to the TEFCE project ‘Towards a European framework They have a wealth of experience in project with expertise in related pro- for community engagement of higher community building, having already jects, as well as their international education’ (TEFCE) aims to contribute been actively involved in the regenerati- network of over 330,000 students and to social innovation by improving the on of their region over the past decades. 50,000 staff members involved in the level of community engagement under- The project strives to promote social dissemination and exploitation of the taken by higher educational institutions. innovation through a knowledge triangle results in Europe. The consortium for the comprised of education, research and collaboration consists of 13 partners from The members of the ECIU are mostly innovation. A toolbox will be developed, across Europe and is coordinated by the universities that are located in regions with innovative means for policymakers Technical University of Dresden. Text Sandra Pool

Educational innovation ‘Proud that so many universities look at us’

They do not only find each other in terms of age, key characteristics and ambitions. There is more that binds the twelve ECIU universities. They inspire each other and learn from each other. And that leads to innovations. A good example is the Aalborg teaching model for problem based learning (PBL).

The teaching method was developed A revolution lop the teaching method. At this stage at Aalborg University (AAU) at the The university introduced new formats we are especially concerned about the Centre for Problem Based Learning in with Problem and project-based learn- ways how we may introduce and ex- Engineering Science and Sustainability. ing at the centre, curricula design with ploit digital learning methods to further ‘This centre has been founded under the focus on project-organised group work strengthen the academic and collabora- auspices of UNESCO and was formal- and supervision, and physical alterati- tive aspects of PBL.’ ly launched in May 2014,’ says Inger ons with designated areas for project Many universities – besides ECIU-mem- Askehave, prorector of Aalborg Univer- work. Askehave: ‘It was a revolution at ber-universities – have been inspired sity. ‘However, it is an integral part of the time; but to Aalborg University it has by Aalborg’s approach to learning and our history to innovate education. AAU always been natural to work along these teaching. ‘I am proud that so many was established in 1974 and already at rather innovative lines.’ universities look at AAU for educational that time faculties wanted an alternative innovation. A whole team of dedicated approach to education.’ The Danish university believes that the and skilled teachers and researchers PBL-approach still has a lot to offer. ‘We travels around the world to spread the are constantly trying to further deve- word about the Aalborg PBL model.’

‘Faculties wanted an alternative approach to education’ Educational innovation ‘We had to make a major change’

The University of Twente (UT) was one of the universities that found new inspiration in Aalborg. In 2014, the ‘Twente Educational Model’ (Twents Onderwijs Model or TOM) was introduced there. This form of education consists entirely of pro- ject-based learning.

‘We had to make a major change to adopt this new educational method as our central principle,’ says Tom Mulder, advisor strategy and policy at the UT. ‘Aalborg University has grown up with ‘Being part of ECIU has been of great project-based learning, so it is part of their DNA. That is not the case for us. value to us in exchanging knowledge and Although we definitely had experience with project-based learning, it was quite best practices in educational innovation’ a radical move to structure all our edu- cation around projects.’

Their Danish colleagues continue to ‘Learning from the best’ offer regular lectures as well, Mulder knows. ‘They thought we were brave Kaunas University of Technology rated PBL as one of its pedagogy to make this choice.’ The road was not (KTU), Tecnológico de Monterrey teaching techniques with the help of entirely free of obstacles. ‘After the (ITESM) and Hamburg University Aalborg University and the Universi- implementation, we had to sort out the of Technology (TUHH) are also ty of Twente. Being part of ECIU has usual difficulties with regards to testing interested in project-based learning. been of great value to us in exchan- and scoring.’ ging knowledge and best practices Joaquín Guerra Achem, Vice-Rector in educational innovation.’ Other universities are interested as well, for Academic Affairs and Educational Mulder notes. He gives a talk about TOM Innovation of ITESM: ‘We have a history Kaunas University of Technology is the at least once a week. ‘There is a conti- of educational innovation in its flagman in educational innovations in nuous stream of interested parties. They teaching-learning process. We have Lithuania. KTU has been learning from mostly want to know how we handled always benchmarked around the the best: acquiring the PBL competen- the transition from regular education to world to learn from best practices and ces from Aalborg University, transfer- project-based learning and what we en- inform our innovation process. In the ring the good practices of the Twente countered along. We can definitely help late 1990’s, we went to Aalborg Uni- Educational Model onto KTU’s product our colleagues in that regard, just like versity to learn about their PBL model. development project and the overall Aalborg inspired us once upon a time.’ Tecnológico de Monterrey incorpo- innovative KTU study model. Why PBL?

‘The new KTU study model has been ful for all of the received consultations Using PBL ensures that students driven by the exponentially fast chan- and recommendations. We are certainly become professionals who are able ges in society and market needs, by the learning from the best.’ to acquire and apply knowledge and contemporary expectations of our stu- who can contribute new knowledge to dents, and it certainly meets the needs Hamburg University of Technology their field of study, through curiosity of the modern teaching and learning started implementing early forms of and a critical attitude. The PBL-model paradigm’, states Jurgita Siugzdiniene, project oriented learning, later project teaches students the ability to find, Rector Ad Interim at Kaunas University based learning among other with the critically assess, combine and use new of Technology. help of the Aalborg model: Members information is an important skill in the of the university’s Center for Teaching twenty-first century. They know all ‘We are yet on our way of implemen- and Learning (ZLL) went to Aalborg the ins and outs of their field of study ting the new curriculum grounded on several times. Now – six years later – and can contribute to its development. competence development, problem both forms of PBL alongside other They are also capable of venturing off and project based learning. Aalborg didactical formats support the univer- the beaten path and applying their University and the University of Twente sity’s vision of implementing curricula knowledge in a broader context, in are the role models for PBL and project so as to provide a research-based collaboration with other disciplines based learning for us and we are grate- learning experience to students. and society. ECIU Start-up Discovery Journey

Preparing start-ups Linköping University organized the for the real world final workshop

Linköping University (LiU) is one of the universities participating in the ECIU Startup Discovery Programme. ‘The Entrepreneurship is no stranger within the ECIU network. aims of the programme agree well with New business ideas and hopeful start-ups pop up at the partner LiU’s ambition to demonstrate in trans- universities every day. To give young entrepreneurs a better lating ideas and research results into fighting chance in today’s ‘global village’, ECIU universities have practical applications. The participation decided to harvest the expertise of the entire network and create from our side is handled by the universi- an international ‘start-up accelerator’ programme. ty innovation office, LiU Innovation,’ says Vice-Chancellor Helen Dannetun.

The core idea behind the programme is ‘Short, compact and action packed’ Ten projects were selected to partici- to accelerate the development of young The pilot of the programme was or- pate in the pilot programme in Dublin, companies,’ explains Maria Johnston ganized in the fall of 2017 and invol- Aalborg and Linköping University during from Dublin City University (DCU), the ved participants from five ECIU uni- the autumn of 2017. They are all at pre- university that developed the proposal versities. It took place in three ECIU liminary stages, and come from several and coordinates now the programme member locations – Dublin, Aalborg, fields. Linköping University’s contribu- for ECIU. ‘It is a completely shared Linkoping - and consisted of training tion was the ‘Worldish’ project, with its programme, not to be led by only one workshops relevant for starting com- digital translation tool ‘Helen’, intended institute. Its main goal is to use expertise panies, such as courses on Financial for use within medical care. The service of all the partners, all the different Modeling, Pitching or Sales Strategy. removes language barriers between pa- backgrounds and cultures.’ ‘We wanted to create a really immer- tients and healthcare personnel. ‘Even sive experience - the programme was though the projects cover an enormous ‘Each region and university has a diffe- short, compact and action packed,’ diversity of fields, they face many of the rent approach to entrepreneurship and describes Carter. ‘We want to give same challenges. The various startup commercialization of research,’ says the start-ups a solid foundation be- projects have benefited greatly by ex- Shane Carter, the programme coordina- fore they enter the real world. ’ The changing experiences with each other tor from the DCU Ryan Academy who pilot programme was open to any and establishing international networks,’ co-ordinated the programme. ‘Which starting companies from the parti- says Gio Fornell, head of LiU Innovation. is why it was important for us to bring cipating universities and eventually people together, give them easy access involved ten teams, mostly formed LiU Innovation to local mentors and allow them to form by students and PhD researchers. The mission of the innovation office strong collaborations with their collea- ‘We got a very good response from at Linköping University, LiU Innovati- gues from other ECIU universities.’ our participants,’ says Johnston. ‘We on, is to support students, researchers believe they really benefited from and employees at LiU as they develop seeing different ecosystems and from their ideas. LiU Innovation also plays an ‘We want to give start-ups networking among each other. The important role in knowledge transfer pilot ended in November 2017 and between Linköping University and the a solid foundation before we are still in the process of evaluati- business world in the region. on, but there is certainly willingness they enter the real world’ to run the programme again.’ www.liuinnovation.se Text Michaela Nesvarova ‘We don’t see entrepreneurship the same way throughout Europe’

Andre Bastie and Marc Assens from Happy Scribe

What do the participants think?

The end of programme was marked by a What did the team think of the pro pitching contest. An independent panel gramme? ‘The most interesting part of entrepreneur ‘dragons’ selected Hap- was to meet other young entrepre- py Scribe as the winner, winning a prize neurs, exchange ideas and learn of 2000 euro. from each other,’ says André Bastié, With origins at the DCU in Ireland, Hap- co- founder of Happy Scribe. ‘Visiting py Scribe offers an automated transcrip- other countries was also really useful. tion tool for journalists and researchers. It showed us that we don’t see entre- They claimed the victory thanks to their preneurship the same way throughout ‘break neck adoption speed and Europe and it provided us with different customer validation’. insights into our business.’ 20 YEARS OF ECIU

Representatives and alumni of all the opened the ceremony celebrating twelve member universities gathered 20 years of ECIU. ‘To actually survive last November in hotel Leopold, next to twenty years as a network of universities the European Parliament, to raise their means a lot. To keep it together, that ta- glasses to twenty years of international kes commitment, perseverance, prioriti- university partnerships. The president of zation and mutual respect,’ says Van der the European Consortium of Innovative Chijs. ‘We are more committed than ever Universities, Victor van der Chijs, to challenging conventional thinking.’ Text Michaela Nesvarova Sandra Pool UT module wins award Photo Jean-Yves Limet for innovative education

The University of Twente (UT) mo- dule ‘Smart ways to make smart ci- ties smarter’ has won the ECIU Team Award for Innovation in Teaching and Learning. The creators received the prize last November during the 20th anniversary ceremony of ECIU in Brussels.

The ECIU Team Award is given out every year in order to recognize teaching and learning innovations of teams from the ECIU member institutions. The UT minor ‘Smart ways to make smart cities smarter’ was selected as the winner out of seven candidates. The jury especially appreciated the high level of interdisci- plinary approach of the module and its connection to external stakeholders.

Smart ways to make smart cities smarter is an HTHT minor, open to all technical The winning team of students and students EPA and IBA. 2017, from left to right: The module has been developed by the Mark van der Meijde, faculties Engineering Technology, Elec- Lissy La Paix Puello, tronical Engineering, Computer Science Robin de Graaf, and Mathematics (ET) and the Faculty Léon olde Scholtenhuis (all UT) of Geo-information Science and Earth and Mark Brown (Director of Observation (ITC). the National Institute for Digital Learning (NIDL) at Dublin City The minor module introduces students University (DCU). to the field of civil engineering and management and society’s transition to- wards smart cities. The module addres- ses the challenges of maintaining the urban space and infrastructure, and also provides hand-on experience during an industry-based design project. The chosen approach via interfaculty colla- boration has therefore contributed to the success.

Would you like to give it a try with your team? Apply now at the ECIU website! Closing date: May 4. Rolf Vermeij participated in the Leadership Development Programme ‘International

setting and mingling are the programme’s strengths’

ECIU offers university employees a chance to work on pressing issues that their university faces in an international setting. The foundation of the Grants Office, a product of this programme, proves that this so-called Leadership Development Programme (LDP) is about more than talking and brainstorming.

Rolf Vermeij, head of the University of Twente’s Grants Office, participated in the Leadership Development Programme in 2007. Working on cases is an important aspect of this training programme. ‘These are real issues,’ Vermeij says. ‘Normally, universities keep their problems to themselves, but each participating ECIU university brings a pressing matter to the table: real problems that the organisation struggles with. That gives the whole process more impact. Board members of the participating universities often cannot believe the findings that the programme produces.’ Text Jelle Posthuma Photo Gijs Ouwerkerk European Union The ECIU’s flagship The fact that the collaboration that takes When Rolf Vermeij participated in the place during the LDP is both intense and programme, the European seventh Harry de Boer and Jon File of the UT’s fruitful is evident from the reunions that framework programme for research Center for Higher Education Policy are regularly held. ‘Two or three groups and innovation had just been laun- Studies (CHEPS) are the instigators and still meet up often,’ De Boer says. ‘Those ched. Brussels was making more me- head lecturers of the Leadership Deve- people all became close friends. ECIU ans available, such as the ERC Grants. lopment Programme. strives to build a community and bring ‘The UT was looking for new methods universities into contact with each other. to make better use of the opportuni- ‘It is like a travelling circus, in the positive The Leadership Development Program- ties in Europe,’ Vermeij explains. ‘The sense of the word,’ they say. ‘Every host me contributes to that goal, which makes acceptance rate of research proposals university selects a project that it wishes it one of the ECIU’s showpieces.’ in Europe was too low.’ to discuss,’ De Boer explains. ‘A universi- ty is a complex organisation. Our goal is About the programme Strategic plan to bring people closer together. During The ECIU member universities are facing Vermeij thought this would be a the LDP, the head of finance will meet similar challenges in terms of manage- suitable case to discuss during the a professor of electronics, for example. ment, leadership and strategic develop- Leadership Development Programme. What connects them all is their interest ment. Therefore, since 2004, ECIU offers ‘The session revealed that the UT did in leadership at the university. These are a comprehensive leadership programme not yet have the right expertise to people with potential and curiosity.’ to potential academic and administrative make optimal use of the opportunities leaders of its member universities. They in Europe. To achieve more success in A simulation game is part of the course. value this programme highly. Working Brussels, a more centralised approach ‘We act out role-playing scenarios in a together in small but highly diverse was needed.’ fantasy world,’ Jon File says. ‘Say, you are international teams not only inspires the the dean of a faculty and your organi- participants but also provides them with Vermeij returned to the UT armed sation is losing money. What happens a clear reflection of their own performan- with these findings. ‘We now sup- next? We act out that scenario here. ce in their organization. port researchers with the submission This is highly interactive and takes place of their research proposals and we in a multicultural environment. Things Since its launch in 2004, nearly 300 established the Grants Office in 2008.’ that work here are far less effective in employees participated in the Leadership These measures paid off. ‘In 2010, Germany, for example. We also bring in Development Programme (LDP). Each thirty percent of the ERC proposals leaders from entirely different corporate university can send (at least) two partici- were accepted. The acceptance rate cultures. The former director of Grolsch pants to the programme: One from aca- is still high today, at circa twenty-two once attended a session. We asked him demia, one from support staff. The three percent. A lot of money is involved: an about the differences between managing seminars are held at two different partner acceptance from the ERC ranges from a beer brewery and a university.’ universities and one in Brussels. 1.5 to 2.5 million euros.’

Strength During the course, Vermeij was part of a mixed group of people. ‘I have a scientific background myself, so I was quite used to working on an inter- national level. That is often not the case for supporting and administra- tive staff, who also participate in the course. This mingling of the various university departments and the international nature of the course are the programme’s main strengths. Of course, it can be a bit awkward at first. In the end, though, that is exactly the Jon File Harry de Boer point: overcoming obstacles.’ Summer schools

Free tickets or discounts Are you looking for an inspiring way to spend your summer? The ECIU Summer Schools offer you several high-quality courses to for ECIU students choose from. Go abroad, celebrate the summer and discover Mexico, Sweden, the Netherlands, Lithuania, Finland or Spain!

Tecnológico de Linköping University of Twente, Monterrey, Mexico University, Sweden the Netherlands i Summer Mx LiU Summer Academy CuriousU

Date Date Date 2 July – 30 July (4 weeks on 29 June-28 July 2018 12 - 21 August 4 different campuses in Mexico) l 4 weeks programme Fee Fee Fee Until 10 April €540, from 11 April to 10 3600 USD for independent students No fee, the Summer Academy is June €600 and after 10 June €700. 1600 USD for ECIU students only eligible for partner universities Includes 20% ECIU discount

What to expect? What to expect? What to expect? Students will learn how to improve their Students have several high-quality cour- The CuriousU experience is a one of a skills as professionals. You can expect ses to choose from and will gain cultural kind combination of a European summer company visits, conferences with experts, insights together with other international school and a festival. Excellent academic workshops and trips. Attendees will students from all over the world. All part- courses, music, sports, theatre and inspi- have the opportunity to take two diffe- ner universities are welcome to nominate rational speakers at one place. The broad rent courses that will help them develop a maximum of five students per course. range of courses that are given are based a deeper understanding of Mexican Students from partner universities with on the hottest research fields, which inclu- identity and culture. In addition, they can whom we would like to improve the ba- de Blockchain Tech, Water, Robotics and choose to improve their basic Spanish lance for incoming and outgoing student eSports Analytics. To get the discount go skills or to advance their intercultural exchange are prioritized. to the registration website and use the communication competencies. following discount code: ECUIpaR20

Universitat Autònoma Kaunas University Tampere University de Barcelona, Spain of Technology, Lithuania of Technology, Finland International Summer Term Summer School in Palanga Tampere Summer School

Date Date Date 25 June to 13 July 2018 20 – 24 August 6 – 17 August & 16 July to 3 August 2018 Fee Fee Fee Early bird €200 | Regular €250 €200 for a course of 2 ECTS €720 each course. €500 for a course of 5 ECTS ECIU-students: €576 (20% discount) What to expect? Doctoral students with strong intellectual What to expect? What to expect? curiosity will have an opportunity for ex- The Summer School is open to Bachelor’s The courses are full-time, intensive pro- ploration, cultural enrichment, experience degree, Master’s degree and PhD stu- grammes over a three-week period that exchange. The international PhD Summer dents from all over the world. All courses provide students with the opportunity to School aims to: equip participants with es- are taught in English and covers various participate in hands-on seminars, as well sential skills that are necessary in all fields academic fields and up-to-date topics as fieldwork and off-campus activities. of science; provide participants with a va- with a multidisciplinary approach. The Courses sessions include special events, luable chance to network with attendants courses are organised by the University such as visits to relevant public and politi- from other countries and share a friendly of Tampere (UTA), Tampere University of cal institutions, museums and monuments. social environment, and an exciting time at Technology (TUT) and Tampere University the seaside resort Palanga. of Applied Sciences (TAMK).