Research

Selected under Topic 1: EIT-HEI-2025-STEM-CAPACITY-BUILDING, STELLAR-X supports Higher Education Institutions in closing a persistent gap in STEM education: innovation, entrepreneurship, and IP management skills are often taught separately from the scientific and technical disciplines where they are most needed. The project aims to help STEM students, researchers, educators, and institutional staff become better prepared to translate knowledge into market-ready solutions.

At the centre of STELLAR-X is a modular, AI-powered learning pathway. The project will develop a 40-hour curriculum organised into three stackable micro-credential pathways: Innovation & Discovery, Venture Creation, and Market Readiness. Learners will engage with technology scouting, design thinking, business model development, IP management, pitching, funding, grant writing, and research-to-market communication. The platform will use adaptive learning and entrepreneurship simulation scenarios to personalise learning and provide practical startup experience.

STELLAR-X also strengthens institutional innovation capacity through KTO/TTO training, a STEM Commercialisation Guide, Train-the-Trainer activities, startup mentoring, Demo Days, and new innovation structures such as a Competence Centre, STEM Startup Hub, Cross-Border Innovation Network, and Women in STEM Entrepreneurship Network. By aligning with EIT Climate-KIC, 28DIGITAL, and EIT Manufacturing, the project connects STEM education with AI, clean technology, digital transformation, Industry 4.0, micro-credential development, and startup support across diverse European and associated-country contexts.

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INSIGHT is a three year European project dedicated to improving how research careers are supported, developed, and recognized across Europe. It brings together universities, research institutes, companies, public authorities, and innovation organizations to create talent ecosystems that help early stage researchers thrive.

Across Europe, early stage researchers often face unclear career pathways, uneven support, and limited opportunities to develop skills for both academic and non academic futures. At the same time, universities and research organizations are working to implement the new Charter for Researchers but need practical tools, training, and guidance to turn these principles into action.

INSIGHT responds to these challenges by building stronger links between researchers, institutions, industry, and the public sector. The project supports sustainable career structures, fair working conditions, and pathways that reflect real labor market needs.

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Current project results

• May 1, 2026: Closing the Gap: from academia to market
• June 19, 2026: From commitment to practice: what  INSIGHT’s  organisational  gap  analysis  reveals  about  Charter  implementation

The AILEEN project implements the establishment of Centers of Vocational Excellence (CoVEs) in the aerospace and defense sector. These are formed by partner networks that develop local “competence ecosystems” and specialize in advanced manufacturing techniques such as soldering, welding, additive manufacturing, inspection and coordination of manufacturing activities. This initiative will create international synergies in the qualification of skilled personnel in these sectors.

The project, consisting of various European educational and industrial partners, was successfully launched in June 2023. In close cooperation with these AILEEN partners, the Fraunhofer Personnel Certification Authority is developing methods for the effective and continuous nomination of CoVEs.

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AILEEN – National Leagues

National qualification competitions in the field of advanced manufacturing for the aerospace and defense sector on welding test methods will take place in 7 European countries in 2025.

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The EIT Food Learning Services & Assessment project is a pioneering initiative in the food industry, focusing on providing professionals in the sector with valuable skills and competencies and certifying them. It addresses real challenges and issues in the industry to facilitate practical learning. By integrating real-world industry challenges and a hands-on approach, the project allows participants to deepen their expertise and gain practical experience.

The project made a promising start last year with the successful launch of its first courses and certifications, showing great potential to become a significant cornerstone in the agriculture and food industry. The Fraunhofer Personnel Certification Authority is the leading project partner and is developing, in close collaboration with EIT Food, the educational, training, and certification programs for professionals in this field.

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Test run for two new certificates

(August 2025)

As part of the project, the "Foundations of Cyber Security" and "GenAI and Data Security" certifications are currently in the trial phase and are therefore available free of charge for a limited time.

Upon successful completion, participants will receive an official certificate from EIT Food Assessment, which is based on our recognized certification process in accordance with international standards.

"Foundations of Cyber Security" is aimed at anyone who wants to test and certify their basic understanding of IT security – regardless of prior knowledge or industry. Topics covered include:

• Typical cyber-attacks and their characteristics
• Key security objectives
• Basics of networks, ports, firewalls, and devices

All information on registration can be found here.

"GenAI and Data Security" combines structured self-study with an online proctored exam and certifies basic skills in the secure handling of generative AI and sensitive data. What is tested?

• Secure use of generative AI, taking data protection and compliance into account
• Processes such as anonymization, encryption, and privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs)
• Legal framework (e.g., GDPR, AI Act)
• Ethical sensitivity and responsible use of AI systems

All information on registration can be found here.