BIOMAC-BP Industrial Training (T4) in Utrecht, Advances Skills and Network Collaboration
From March 30 to April 2, 2026, the BIOMAC-BP doctoral network held its fourth network-wide training event (T4) at Utrecht University, in collaboration with the CoCoGel Network.
A Structured Program bringing together Academic Research with Industry Contributions
As part of the network’s structured training program, this event combined scientific exchange, transferable skills development, and strategic project coordination.
Participants had already gathered in Utrecht on March 29, allowing an early start for informal discussions and networking, setting the tone for a highly interactive and collaborative week.
The programme addressed key topics at the crossroads of research, innovation, and application, presented by industrial experts:
- Product Life Cycle Analysis (Syensqo)
- Intellectual Property Management (Unilever)
- Innovation and Technology Transfer (SLB)
- Industrial R&D: Organisation, Planning and Practices (Johnson&Johnson)
- Academia–Industry Collaboration (OnePlanet Research Center)
- Entrepreneurship and Business Strategy (InProcess-LSP, QuestPair)
Through this interdisciplinary approach, participants gained insights into how research outcomes can be evaluated, protected, and translated into practical solutions.
A key strength of the training was the insight into industrial research that participants gained through visits to the R&D facilities of Unilever and OnePlanet Research Center where local researchers shared their experiences in innovative processes, research management, and collaboration models.
Engaging directly with industry perspectives provided valuable context for understanding how scientific developments evolve into real-world applications and market-ready solutions.
Fostering Collaboration Across the Network
Hosted by Utrecht University, the training created an open and engaging environment for discussion, exchange, and networking among early-stage researchers, supervisors, and partners.
The event also strengthened connections within the BIOMAC-BP and CoCoGel networks, reinforcing the importance of collaboration across disciplines, institutions, and sectors.
Mid-Term Meeting and Strategic Alignment
In addition to the training programme, April 2 was dedicated to the BIOMAC-BP Mid-Term Meeting, held with the EU Project.
This meeting provided an important opportunity to review the project’s progress, discuss achievements and challenges, and align on the next phases of the network’s activities. Bringing together beneficiaries, partners, and the European Commission representative ensured transparency, strategic guidance, and continued momentum for the project.
Looking Ahead
As part of the BIOMAC-BP network-wide training activities (T4), the Utrecht event represents another important milestone in the development of a highly skilled and connected research community.
By integrating scientific excellence with transferable skills and industry engagement, BIOMAC-BP continues to prepare its researchers to address global challenges in sustainable materials and bio-based innovation.
Further training events and network activities can be found on the BIOMAC-BP events page reflecting the programme’s ongoing commitment to interdisciplinary learning and collaboration.
