AI-InnoScEnCE

The AI-InnoScEnCE project aims to enhance the impact of academic research in the natural sciences and engineering by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship for the circular economy. This overarching objective is pursued through the strategic promotion of Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a key enabler from two perspectives. (1) From the perspective of AI as a General-Purpose Method of Invention, the project seeks to transform and accelerate Higher Education Institution (HEI) research in disciplines such as material science, chemistry, and environmental engineering. By doing so, it aims to contribute to the development of sustainable and circular solutions. To achieve this, the project will identify best practices for integrating AI into research processes, enabling researchers to harness its potential for data analysis, predictive modeling, and workflow optimization. Additionally, experimental spaces will be established where HEI members can engage with cutting-edge AI tools, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment. (2) From the perspective of AI as an Opportunity Identification Tool, the project aims to facilitate the practical application of HEI research outputs. AI-based methods will be developed to map regional circular economy ecosystems, highlighting synergies, gaps, and areas ripe for innovation. These insights will be instrumental in identifying opportunities for applying HEI inventions in real-world settings. Furthermore, the project will create an AI-based assistant designed to support stakeholders, including researchers, industry partners, and policymakers, in exploring and evaluating the commercial and societal potential of HEI innovations during structured workshop sessions.

The project is systematically organized into work packages, each focused on implementing these perspectives to drive innovation and entrepreneurship. Key activities include benchmarking research practices, establishing physical and virtual labs equipped with advanced AI tools, and organizing workshops to promote opportunity identification and stakeholder engagement. These efforts aim to bridge the gap between academic research and practical application, ensuring that HEI innovations address pressing challenges in the circular economy. By integrating AI into both the invention and exploitation phases of the research-to-innovation process, the AI-InnoScEnCE project is poised to create a transformative impact. It not only strengthens the research capabilities of HEIs but also empowers them to contribute directly to sustainable economic growth and environmental stewardship. This dual approach ensures that academic research becomes a catalyst for systemic change, fostering a circular economy that benefits academia, industry, and society alike.