Future of ESFRI in a New ERA: Shaping the Next Chapter for European Research Infrastructures

The European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) will host the Future of ESFRI in a New ERA workshop on 31 March - 1 April 2025 at the Masaryk University Campus Library in Brno, Czech Republic. The event will serve as a key moment for reflecting on ESFRI’s evolving role in the European Research Area (ERA) and discussing its long-term strategic direction. 

Since its establishment in 2002, ESFRI has played a pivotal role in shaping Research Infrastructure (RI) policies across EU Member States and Associated Countries, working closely with the European Commission. Over two decades, the research landscape has changed dramatically, requiring new strategic approaches to governance, sustainability, and financing of Research Infrastructures. As ESFRI moves forward, the workshop will explore how it can reinforce its position as a key platform for coordination and policymaking in this rapidly evolving landscape. 

Key themes include:

• The Strategic Role of ESFRI: Exploring how ESFRI can continue to guide and influence the future of European research infrastructures.       
• ESFRI’s Role in the New ERA: Addressing the forum’s adaptation to new research priorities and emerging global challenges. 

The workshop will be highly interactive, with small discussion groups encouraging open dialogue and reflection. Delegations have been invited to provide input ahead of the event, ensuring a forward-looking debate that will help define the next phase of ESFRI’s development. 

This initiative underscores ESFRI’s commitment to fostering a robust and sustainable European research infrastructure ecosystem that supports scientific excellence, economic competitiveness, and societal growth.

The Workshop is restricted to ESFRI delegations only. Further details on the outcomes of the discussions will become available on the ESFRI website.

For any queries, please contact us at info@str-esfri.eu.