On March 26, 2025, the 7th Young Scientists Meeting took place during the EIC-SUNERGY Joint Event in Brussels. This edition of the workshop, designed and led by the OHPERA consortium, brought together early-career researchers to focus on a crucial topic: bridging the gap between scientific research and market innovation.
The session was hosted by the LOMARTOV team, Dr. Isaac Herraiz Cardona and Dr. Marco Bianchini, with support from Dr. Vera Grimm, from the German Ministry of Education and Research. The hosts offered a dynamic and interactive experience for the 11 participating PhD and postdoctoral researchers from across the green hydrogen and renewable energy research portfolio.
Hands-On Collaboration and Real-World Perspective
The workshop opened with personal introductions and a clear mission: to raise awareness among young scientists of the skills required to bring innovation to the market. In a motivational keynote, Dr. Grimm emphasised the importance of broadening scientific training with entrepreneurial and strategic thinking, sparking a lively and engaged atmosphere among participants.
The program was structured around two interactive teamwork sessions:
Session 1: From Research to Market
Participants were grouped based on shared research interests and asked to imagine a pathway to market for a hypothetical, early-stage technology. They explored the critical steps needed, from ideation to commercialisation, and identified the skills scientists must develop along the way. Each group presented its conclusions, which were enriched by feedback from the hosts.
Session 2: Skill Mapping and Self-Assessment
A hands-on exercise followed, where participants evaluated their confidence across six key domains:
- IPR and Publication
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Communication and Networking
- Regulation and Policy
- Scientific, Technological, and Upscaling Knowledge
- Transversal Skills
They reflected on where they felt equipped, where they needed growth, and how different skill sets could be developed through personal learning, collaboration, or external expertise. The conversation prompted broader insights into strategic career development in science.
Closing the Gap Between Research and Impact
The workshop concluded with an open discussion about educational tools, training opportunities, and resources available to young scientists to complement their core scientific expertise. The session encouraged participants to see themselves not only as researchers but as future innovators and leaders in the energy transition.
By taking the lead in organising and facilitating this workshop, OHPERA reinforced its commitment to supporting young researchers in acquiring the skills needed to navigate the complex innovation landscape of green hydrogen and renewable technologies.
Stay tuned as OHPERA continues to empower emerging talent across Europe’s clean energy research community!