The first ChallengeEU Research Matchmaking Workshop, hosted by Mid Sweden University on 13 April, brought together 44 researchers from across the alliance to initiate new collaborations and explore joint research opportunities.
Following a joint introduction, participants worked in four thematic breakout groups covering areas such as IoT and AI, additive manufacturing, anxiety, depression, stress and trauma, and digital health, health economic evaluations, and policy. The interactive format enabled participants to quickly identify shared interests, complementary expertise, and potential pathways for future cooperation.
For example, in the IoT, AI and Electrification group, participants aligned around AI applications, data-driven development, and the role of AI in education and organisations. The group has already established a shared communication channel and scheduled a follow-up meeting in June to continue developing ideas.
In the Metal Additive Manufacturing group, researchers connected across the full value chain—from materials and processes to industrial applications. Key collaboration areas include advanced materials such as tungsten, characterisation methods, and educational uses of 3D printing. The group also identified several relevant funding opportunities and has planned a follow-up meeting in late May.
Overall, the workshop marked a strong starting point for deeper research collaboration within ChallengeEU, with several concrete follow-up activities already underway.
