VIMM took center stage in Brussels for an important event dedicated to promoting scientific careers and upholding the European principles outlined in the European Charter for Researchers.
“Valuing Researchers: The New Private Research Contract of VIMM in the European Context” — this was the title of the meeting held on September 24 at the European Parliament in Brussels, attended by Members of the European Parliament, academics, EU officials, and representatives of the European Commission. The event focused on the impact of the new VIMM contract on scientific careers and
on enhancing the value of research talent.
The afternoon began with welcome remarks by Ambassador Marco Canaparo, Deputy Permanent Representative of Italy to the EU, followed by addresses from Giustina Destro, President of the Fondazione per la Ricerca Biomedica Avanzata – VIMM, who introduced the institute and its 30 years of biomedical excellence, and Hon. Daniele Polato, who organized the meeting.
The details of the new contract were then presented by Liliana Contu and Marco Zamborlin, VIMM Scientific and Grant Officers, followed by Magda de Carli, Head of Unit “ERA, Spreading Excellence & Research Careers” within the RTD Directorate-General of the European Commission, who spoke on “A European Perspective on Research Careers.”
Further perspectives and discussion points were offered through the presentations “The European Research Dimension in Italy” by Michele Guerrini, Research and Innovation Counsellor at the Italian Representation to the EU, and Mattia Ceracchi, Head of the Brussels Office of APRE (the Agency for the Promotion of European Research).
The event also featured a roundtable discussion titled “Connecting Policy and Practice,” with the participation of MEPs Elena Donazzan, Letizia Moratti, and Alessandra Moretti, along with Jessica Ceccato (VIMM researcher), Massimo Busuoli (Director of the NTNU Brussels Office), and Magda de Carli.
The conclusions of the day — and insights on how to continue the virtuous path initiated by VIMM, one of the first private research institutes in Italy to adopt such a model — were entrusted to Nicola Elvassore, VIMM’s Scientific Director.
“The new model we have adopted and intend to expand marks a real turning point: it not only enhances the quality of research and the working conditions of our scientists but also transforms our Foundation into a center of excellence capable of attracting talent and resources from all over the world,” emphasized President Giustina Destro.
