On November 13, a significant milestone was achieved in scientific collaboration between Latvia and Switzerland. The Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Latvia, Martin Michelet, and Armands Eberhards, the Deputy State Secretary for EU Funds at the Ministry of Finance of Latvia, signed the agreement for the Applied Research Program. This initiative, with a funding allocation of €12.3 million—85% from Swiss funding and 15% from the Latvian state budget—aims to enhance applied research capacity and foster cooperation in innovative materials, information and communication technologies (ICT), and smart energy.
For the ISSP UL, participation in this program represents a transformative opportunity for development and growth. The program will run from January 2025 to September 2029, enhancing the research and innovation landscape in Latvia and driving economic transformation and sustainable growth.
The Applied Research Program comprises two pre-defined projects. The first project will be conducted by Riga Technical University (RTU) in collaboration with the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa). The second project will involve ISSP UL, the Institute of Electronics and Computer Science (EDI), RTU, the Paul Scherrer Institute, the Zurich University of Applied Sciences, and the Swiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology.
This project will focus on advancing smart grid technologies and energy storage solutions. By employing cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools to assess and ensure the real-time stability of the Baltic electricity grid, the aim is to improve the efficiency and reliability of energy distribution. Additionally, this research will enhance materials for hydrogen production catalysts and develop innovative energy storage solutions, ultimately reducing the Baltic States’ reliance on foreign fossil fuels and paving the way for cleaner energy alternatives.
The partnership with esteemed Swiss institutions will not only enhance ISSP UL’s technological capabilities but also increase the pool of highly qualified professionals equipped with advanced knowledge in emerging technologies. The exchange of expertise and resources will invigorate research initiatives and strengthen ISSP UL’s position as a leader in applied research in the Baltic region.
Furthermore, the program includes initiatives aimed at fostering interest in advanced technologies among young people, especially young women. This focus aligns perfectly with ISSP UL’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers, ensuring that the institute cultivates a diverse and dynamic workforce capable of tackling future challenges.
The upcoming project will open more doors to innovative research opportunities, strengthen international collaborations, and enhance the capacity to contribute to sustainable development in the region.
Source: lvportals.lv (part of the state, civic, and legal information platform maintained by the official publisher Latvijas Vēstnesis.)
