MERCURY Study Visit at Saarland University, 24-25 September 2009, Saarbrücken, Germany

On September 24-25, a further Study Visit was organised at Saarland University. This meeting combined the two topics “European Models of Technology Transfer and Innovation Support” and “University Services Supporting Research and Innovation Fundraising”.

The first working day was devoted to the technology transfer model of Saarland University and supporting activities for young entrepreneurs. The diefferent presentations were held by staff members of the Office for Technology Transfer (KWT) at Saarland University. They were followed by questions and discussions comparing the situation in Saarland with the one in the partner countries. Mr Daniel Wagner from the Ministry of Economics and Science of Saarland chaired the afternoon session. He presented the Innovation Strategy of Saarland till 2015 which was developed by an Executive Board of Professionals (politicians, businessmen, academics, etc.). The Strategy describes the close connection between higher education institutions and industry and shows the possibilities of effectively using these connections.

The meeting’s second day focused on “University Services Supporting Research and Innovation Fundraising”. Mr. Jörg Scherer, Managing Director of the project partner "Eurice", shared his longtime experience in this area with the project partners. His presentations were followed by fruitful discussions on possibilities how to apply for third party funds for research and innovation activities in the partner countries.

On Saturday the participants left for Alicante to get acquainted with the Spanish project partner's experiences in the respective field.

>> Download programme in English (*.pdf)
>> View list of presentations
>> View pictures of the event