On 7 July 2026, the ESPERANCE project team held a meeting with its External Advisory Board (EAB) to review the progress achieved so far and discuss priorities for the next phase of the project.

The meeting provided an opportunity to present developments across research, training, knowledge transfer, research infrastructure and networking. Discussions also covered secondments, joint research activities, new equipment, training schools, scientific publications, collaboration with the private sector, and upcoming activities for the next reporting period.

A key focus of the meeting was the further strengthening of the University of Patras’ research capacity and integration into European research networks. The EAB shared recommendations on future collaboration and funding opportunities, as well as on the development of research services and the long-term sustainability of ESPERANCE’s impact.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on areas for further development, including strengthening scientific collaboration, expanding European networking activities and pursuing targeted funding opportunities aligned with the University’s research strengths.