Research infrastructures play a vital role in driving innovation and societal development through cutting-edge research. They provide access to unique instruments and interconnected facilities that are essential for thousands of external scientists. However, as these infrastructures gain increased political attention and take on new objectives, they also face challenges.
To fully harness the potential of Europe’s research infrastructures, unconventional skills are necessary. These skills will be instrumental in addressing the complex and evolving needs of these infrastructures and ensuring their continued success in driving scientific progress and societal development.
Katharina Cramer and Nicholas Rüffin argue that unconventional skills are necessary to fully harness the potential of Europe’s research infrastructures. These skills will enable researchers to navigate the challenges faced by these infrastructures and leverage their resources to drive innovation and advancement. The expansion of these roles requires adapting to new demands and exploring innovative ways to maximize their impact on society and the economy. By developing unconventional skills, researchers can ensure that these infrastructures continue to play a crucial role in driving scientific progress and societal development.