On 22–23 October 2025, the RTI Summit 2025 took place in Copenhagen under the Danish Presidency of the Council of the European Union. The event brought together more than 300 participants — representatives of the European Commission, national research funding agencies, scientific and industrial institutions, and policymakers responsible for shaping the future of Europe’s research and technology infrastructure. At the centre of the discussions was a shared vision for the future of the European RTI ecosystem and its role in building a resilient, innovative, and sustainable Europe.
The conference was opened by Christina Egelund, Danish Minister for Higher Education and Science, who emphasized the importance of cooperation between Member States and the need to maintain open access to research infrastructures as a foundation for Europe’s scientific and economic growth.
“We must ensure that a united research infrastructure works for all of Europe, so that joint — not national — investments become the foundation of its continued development. We cannot rely on others to secure our future. It is our responsibility to cooperate to ensure Europe’s global leadership in this field. We have the institutions, the talent, the vision, and the determination to make that vision a reality,” said Minister Egelund in her opening remarks.
Among the key participants were LEAPS Board members Britta Redlich, Director in charge of Photon Science at DESY, and Jean Daillant, Director General of ESRF. They contributed to plenary discussions dedicated to the future of European infrastructure policy, international cooperation, and technological integration. LEAPS was also present in the exhibition area, where it showcased two of its strategic publications: the LEAPS Technology Roadmap 2025 and the LEAPS Societal Impact brochure.
Both documents convey a common message — that technology and societal impact are inseparable pillars of European photon science. As Jakub Szlachetko, Chair of LEAPS, SOLARIS Director, noted:
“Participation in the RTI Summit is an excellent opportunity to demonstrate that photon infrastructures provide a real foundation for research and innovation across many fields — from health and energy to new materials and quantum technologies. Together with our partners, we aim to develop modern technological solutions while ensuring that their benefits are felt across Europe.”
Among the exhibition stands, particular interest was also drawn to the LEAPS projects: NEPHEWS ReMade@ARI and RIANA. The joint presence of LEAPS projects in the exhibition area highlighted the importance of collaboration among European infrastructures within a coherent development strategy.
The conclusion of the conference provided an opportunity to summarize achievements to date and outline future directions for cooperation. Throughout the event, LEAPS reaffirmed its commitment to building strong partnerships with European research infrastructures, emphasizing that photon science remains one of the key drivers of innovation, technological sovereignty, and sustainable growth in Europe.
