Many of the world's largest research facilities unite Big Science with big business in Copenhagen
When the European Space Agency sends astronauts into space, or when ITER in France tries to recreate the energy source powering the sun and the stars, and thus tap into fusion energy, extensive purchases are required, from the smallest screw to high-tech consultancy. And often with a requirement of extremely high quality and innovation.
The high-tech branch is known as Big Science and for the first time, nine of the world's largest research facilities have gathered together to create the Big Science Business Forum to present their offers to European industry. These span advisory engineering work and architectural tasks, to advanced technical equipment, concrete building projects and radiation-resistant materials, and the orders are worth many billions of euro.
The conference takes place in the Tivoli Congress Center in Copenhagen during 26-28 February, hosted by the Danish Ministry of Higher Education and Science and BigScience.dk. 1,000 delegates from more than 500 companies and organisations spanning approximately 30 countries have already registered.
- The most advanced research is constantly expanding the boundaries of our knowledge and imagination. Research can cure illnesses previously thought incurable, it can change the way we communicate with each other, and there is a good chance that it will help solve the world's energy needs. Much of the most advanced research takes place at Big Science facilities, and their need for high-tech solutions provides great innovation and growth opportunities for private companies. I look forward to welcoming some of the world's leading research institutions and innovative companies, says Minister for Higher Education and Science Søren Pind.
Big Science Business Forum 2018 will be the first one-stop-shop for companies from all over Europe, where they can gain insight into Big Science organisations' future investments and purchases in just one location over the space of a few days.
The conference is arranged by the organisations CERN, EMBL, ESA, ESO, ESRF, ESS, European XFEL, F4E and ILL. A further nine Big Science organisations have joined the detailed conference programme: ALBA, DESY, ELI-NP, ENEA, FAIR, MAX IV, SCK•CEN – MYRRHA, PSI and SKA.
At the conference exhibition space, participants can meet more than 200 companies and organisations, as well as take part in conference session on the Big Science market. Furthermore, delegates can book 1-on-1 business meetings with each other, as well as avail of exclusive guided tours of the European Spallation Source and MAX IV in Lund, Sweden.
The key speakers opening the conference are from the nine organising Big Science organisations, together with the EU Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation Carlos Moedas and the Danish Minister for Higher Education and Science Søren Pind.
Document Actions