University of Western Macedonia secures 3.6 million euros for nine research projects

The University of Western Macedonia has secured funding for nine research projects through the ‘I Research – I Innovate’ initiative, part of the Competitiveness Program (ESPA 2021–2027). While the total subsidized budget for all approved projects is approximately 13.7 million euros, the University of Western Macedonia’s portion amounts to 3.6 million euros.

The selection followed a highly competitive process where only 199 proposals were approved out of 1,938 nationwide. The University submitted 120 proposals involving more than 45 members of its academic community. Of the nine approved projects, the University acts as the coordinator for four research consortia and as a partner in the remaining five.

The research covers six thematic areas: sustainable energy, life sciences and health, digital technologies, agri-food chains, environment and circular economy, and tourism and culture. Three projects specifically focus on sustainable energy to support the energy transition in Western Macedonia. Additionally, artificial intelligence is a common element across several proposals, with applications in health, industry, energy, and the environment.