Baltic Science Network

Baltic Science Network (BSN) is a forum for higher education, science and research cooperation in the Baltic Sea Region. The project it was based on concluded in 2021. Its follow-up project is BSN_powerhouse.

BSN is a policy network gathering relevant transnational, national and regional policy actors from the Baltic Sea Region countries. The network is a springboard for targeted multilateral activities in the frame of research and innovation excellence, mobility of scientists and expanded participation. These joint activities are modelled with an overall aim to ensure that the Baltic Sea Region remains a hub of cutting-edge scientific solutions with the capacity to exploit the region’s full innovation and scientific potential. The activities are modelled as examples of best practice which form basis of the policy recommendations drafted by the Network.

The platform is tailored to provide advice on how to enhance a macro-regional dimension in higher education, science and research cooperation. Recommendations jointly formulated by the Network members address the European, national and regional policy-making levels.

The Baltic Science Network was a flagship of the EU Strategy for the Baltic Sea Region under the Policy Area Education, Research and Employability. It is also one of two cornerstones of the Science, Research and Innovation Agenda of the Council of the Baltic Sea States.

BSN_powerhouse

BSN_powerhouse is an extension of the Baltic Science Network (BSN) project. While BSN has provided relevant stakeholders (e.g. science ministries, governmental agencies and university networks) with a general platform to devise joint strategic approaches, BSN_Powerhouse will now go one step further to implementation.

BSN_Powerhouse aims to provide transnational funding and support instruments to help research infrastructures expand their cooperation to increase competiveness and scientific excellence in the region.

The project focusses on three thematic priority areas: Photon and Neutron Science, Life Sciences and Welfare State.

Two support instruments will be implemented, tested and evaluated.

1. The LaunchPad:RI_Connectors will attempt to widen participation of research infrastructures (RI) in the field of photon and neutron science. EU13 small-scale RI will be matched with large-scale RI to become dedicated partner facilities. The instrument will help to overcome the gap in research and innovation performance among BNS countries. 
2. BARI (Baltic Science Network Mobility Programme for Research Internships) offers doctoral students the possibility to hire master or bachelor level students for a research internship. Working jointly on a research project will foster personal ties between nationalities as well as interest in research and scientific cooperation. Additionally, the PHD students will gain valuable leadership skills.