ZSI has officially joined AUFOS, the network of research managers at non-university research-performing organisations in Austria.
Dr. Inese Gavarane and M.A. Gorazd Weiss presented ZSI’s activities at the AUFOS meeting on 20 November 2025, hosted by Silicon Austria Labs (SAL) in Graz. The meeting provided an intensive exchange on current opportunities and challenges for research management development in Austria. Discussions ranged from research security to regional and international funding frameworks and support, including contributions from KWF and Upper Austria Research GmbH. Another key point on the agenda was a strategic look at the Chips JU portfolio, reflecting the increasing relevance of semiconductor-focused initiatives and European cooperation. In the afternoon, participants continued the dialogue in breakout formats focused on practical and strategic challenges shared across the community: valorisation of research activities (including exploitation strategies and patenting), defence research topics, and Chips Act initiatives, with space to share experiences, explore opportunities, and identify needs going forward. Furthermore, participants had the opportunity to visit the SAL Graz labs, offering a closer look at the facilities and additional opportunities for informal discussion and networking.
ZSI looks forward to actively contributing to the network and strengthening collaboration with research managers across Austria and Europe.
