The FNR is pleased to communicate that 17 projects have been selected for funding in the 2026 RESCOM Call, an FNR commitment of 390,500 EUR. Through RESCOM, the FNR supports communication between researchers to promote scientific outcomes. Of the retained proposals, 9 are International Scientific Conferences and 8 are Lecture Series.
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | 54th Congress of the German Psychological Society (DGPs) | 54DGPs | Robert Kumsta | University of Luxembourg | Humanities & Social Sciences | € 50,000.00 |
| Abstract | The congress of the German Psychological Society (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Psychologie; DGPs) takes place every two years. The 54th DGPs congress will be hosted and organised by the University of Luxemburg, and will take place from September 7th to 10th, in the European Convention Center Luxembourg. Under the overarching motto “Responsibility. Diversity. Future”, three central congress topics – Mental Health, Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence, and Psychology of Sustainable Behavior – will be explored in keynote lectures, interdisciplinary panel discussions, symposia and research talks. Beyond these topics, submissions covering the full spectrum of psychological research will be represented. Scientists of psychology and neighbouring disciplines are invited to contribute, both to the core themes and to the wider field of psychology. The programme will feature the following formats: Keynote lectures (thirteen keynote speakers have confirmed their attendance), Panel discussions, Symposia, Research Talks & Position Papers, Flashlights (open to students, doctoral-, and postdoctoral researchers), Posters. The congress actively promotes discussion and participation of young researchers across the scientific programme. To reduce financial barriers, 50 travel grants of EUR 500 are awarded to students and doctoral candidates, and reduced registration fees are offered to early career researchers (ECRs). In addition, affordable accommodation options, including pre-booked rooms in youth hostels, are provided. Scientific exchange among young researchers is fostered through ECR-designed pre-congress workshops, a flashlight presentation format specifically tailored to early career researchers, and dedicated poster sessions. Early career perspectives are also structurally embedded in the congress organisation through the active involvement of the DGPs and early career representatives and the representative of the Association Luxembourgeoise des Étudiants en Psychologie (ALEP), as well as a dedicated panel discussion addressing ECR-specific topics. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | The 35th European Conference on information Systems | ECIS 2027 | Gilbert Fridgen | University of Luxembourg | Innovation in services | € 50,000.00 |
| Abstract | The European Conference on Information Systems (ECIS) 2027 is one of the most prestigious international conferences in the Information Systems (IS) field and dedicated to Region 2 (Europe, the Middle East, and South Africa). ECIS 2027 is expected to welcome more than 800 participants from all over the world, providing a unique platform for presenting cutting‑edge research that advances scientific knowledge, supports digital innovation, and addresses key societal challenges. Hosted at the European Convention Center Luxembourg, the conference will focus on the theme “Bridging Digital Borders,” reflecting the growing importance of interoperability, cross‑border digital collaboration, and sustainable digital transformation. The conference is organized within a strong research environment, led by the University of Luxembourg and its FINATRAX research group. The Local Organizing Chair is supported by an internationally composed, gender‑balanced committee of 25 established IS scholars. This organizational structure reflects both scientific excellence and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that the conference promotes a broad range of perspectives and expertise. The scientific program will combine plenary keynotes, thematic panels, and parallel paper sessions covering core IS topics such as digital transformation, IS innovation, cybersecurity and privacy, sustainable and responsible IS, data governance, platform ecosystems, and human behavior in digital contexts. These sessions are designed to showcase state‑of‑the‑art research and facilitate knowledge exchange between academia, industry, and policymakers. Although the overall structure is defined, the detailed composition of sessions will be finalized once the review process concludes early next year. Beyond its scientific focus, ECIS 2027 places strong emphasis on supporting early‑career researchers through a Doctoral Consortium, workshops, and discussion‑oriented formats that foster collaboration and professional development. Hosting ECIS in Luxembourg reinforces the country’s strategic priorities in digital innovation, financial technology, and sustainable development, strengthening its position as a center for advanced research and international collaboration. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | European Conference on Visual Information Processing (EUVIP) 2026 | EUVIP | Djamila Aouada | University of Luxembourg | Innovation in services | € 20,000.00 |
| Abstract | The European Conference on Visual Information Processing (EUVIP) is an established annual international scientific conference dedicated to visual information processing and computer vision, with a strong emphasis on AI-based techniques. Founded in 2009, EUVIP has evolved from a workshop into a full-fledged conference, reflecting the growing maturity, scope, and visibility of the field. Each edition is organized in a different European country, ensuring broad international participation and reinforcing EUVIP’s role as a key meeting point within the European research landscape. The 14th edition of EUVIP will take place in Luxembourg from 28 September to 1 October 2026 and is expected to gather more than 150 participants from academia and industry. The conference adopts a single-track format designed to foster in-depth scientific exchange, close interaction, and meaningful collaboration among participants. The program will include tutorials, oral and poster sessions, three invited keynote lectures by internationally recognized experts, an industrial exhibition, and a panel discussion, thereby balancing fundamental research advances with applied and industrial perspectives. EUVIP 2026 will place particular emphasis on inclusivity, mentorship of early-career researchers, and diversity, through dedicated PhD grants, reduced registration fees for students, and a strong representation of women among keynote speakers and committee members. The conference is also expected to receive technical sponsorship from major international scientific societies (EURASIP and IEEE), continuing a long-standing tradition. Hosted by the CVI² research group at the SnT research center of the University of Luxembourg, EUVIP 2026 is strongly aligned with national priorities in artificial intelligence and data-driven technologies. By bringing leading experts in visual AI to Luxembourg, the conference will contribute to high-level knowledge exchange, talent attraction, and the strengthening of academic–industrial links, supporting both scientific excellence and innovation. More details may be found here: https://euvip2026.github.io | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | 9th Venusberg Meeting on Neuroinflammation | VNM27 | Michael Heneka | University of Luxembourg | Life sciences, biology & medicine | € 25,000.00 |
| Abstract | The Venusberg Meeting on Neuroinflammation is a biannual international conference founded by Prof. Heneka in 2009 in Bonn. It has since become a leading international conference in this interdisciplinary field, regularly welcoming more than 250 experts worldwide and has been relocated to Luxembourg since 2023, following Prof. Heneka’s appointment as the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine Director. The 2027 edition will focus on the theme “Neuroimmune interactions along the life cycle – role for aging and neurodegeneration.” The scientific committee has curated a programme spanning basic, clinical, methodological, and emerging perspectives, featuring internationally renowned main speakers across key domains. The agenda will address the roles and interplay of microglia, astrocytes, and peripheral immune cells, as well as crosstalk between neural homeostasis, inflammation, senescence, and aging-related signalling pathways, to advance mechanistic understanding of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Sessions will move from cellular and metabolic programmes shaping glial function, to organ- and system-level immune interactions, and finally to emerging technologies and therapeutic concepts (e.g., in vivo immune-cell engineering, cellular replacement strategies, and advanced biomarker detection). The thematic focus integrates new insights into immune–brain communication and its genetic/epigenetic modulation with translational approaches for diagnosis, stratification, and intervention. Designed as a platform for interdisciplinary exchange, the meeting aims to bridge clinical, translational, and fundamental research. Aligned with the University of Luxembourg strategic priorities in Medicine and Health and Digital Transformation, the meeting supports Luxembourg’s national ambitions in Personalised Healthcare. The meeting will bring together over 250 participants, including world-leading experts, established researchers, students and early-career scientists, clinicians, and industry representatives from Luxembourg and beyond. It will feature >30 renowned speakers being recognised for ground-breaking discoveries, methodological advances, and translational impact, and will offer 12 Blitz talks for (young) researchers selected from their submitted abstract. In addition, the conference will offer poster sessions during all breaks on the three days. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | Advances in Cancer Research: From Discovery to the Clinic | CRLU | Johannes Meiser | Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) | Life sciences, biology & medicine | € 25,000.00 |
| Abstract | The proposed International Scientific Conference (ISC), titled “Advances in Cancer Research: From Discovery to the Clinic,” aims to bring together leading figures in mechanistic, translational, and clinical cancer research who are shaping the current direction of the field. Conceived as the concluding event of the CANBIO2 Doctoral Training Unit (DTU), the conference sessions are structured around the DTU’s main work packages, with a focus on immuno-oncology, metabolism, and advanced modelling. In addition, the programme includes a dedicated session on the cancer ecosystem of tomorrow, designed to discuss initiatives and frameworks currently under development to support the translation of fundamental discoveries into clinical practice through clinical trials and innovation. The lineup of already confirmed speakers reflects exceptional scientific excellence and represents a unique opportunity for the Luxembourg research community, with the potential to position the ISC as a key scientific event at the European and international level. The three-day conference, to be held in the first week of March 2027, will combine keynote lectures, scientific sessions, contributed talks, poster presentations, and round-table discussions to foster interdisciplinary exchange and networking. The training and career development of early-career researchers, as well as the promotion of Luxembourg’s research and innovation ecosystem, are central objectives of the proposed initiative, and will be actively promoted through various initiatives. Broad participation will be ensured through open abstract submission and registration, targeting PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, academic and clinical scientists, and industry representatives. Overall, the proposed ISC provides an integrated platform that consolidates scientific excellence, doctoral training, and translational ambition, while reinforcing Luxembourg’s positioning as an emerging European hub for cutting-edge cancer research and innovation. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | The 2nd European Immunometabolism Network Conference | EIMN26 | Dirk Brenner | Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) | Life sciences, biology & medicine | € 25,000.00 |
| Abstract | The “2nd European Immunometabolism Network Conference: Decoding the Interplay Between Metabolism and Immunity (EIMN2026)” is a major international scientific meeting dedicated to advancing the rapidly expanding field of immunometabolism. Organized by Prof. Dr Dirk Brenner and the European Immunometabolism Network (EIMN) Scientific Committee and hosted by the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) from 10–12 June 2026, the conference will bring together approx.. 250 participants from Europe and beyond. Building on the strong momentum created by the inaugural EIMN meeting in 2024, this second edition aims to consolidate the European research community, stimulate interdisciplinary collaboration, and highlight recent breakthroughs with high biomedical and translational relevance. The programme is structured across three consecutive days to ensure thematic coherence, scientific depth, and broad stakeholder engagement. Day 1: Fundamental Mechanisms in Adaptive and Innate Immunity The opening day will focus on the mechanistic foundations of immunometabolism. Session 1 will address metabolic control of adaptive immunity, with invited contributions from Claudia Mauri (UK) and Dirk Brenner (LUX), complemented by a plenary talk and abstract‑selected presentations. Session 2 will examine metabolic and mitochondrial regulation of innate immunity, featuring Christoph Wilhelm (GER) and Stefanie Wculek (ESP). The day will conclude with a keynote lecture by Luke O’Neill (IRE), who is one of the world leaders in that field and the first poster session. Day 2: Immunometabolism in Disease Contexts The second day will focus on the role of immunometabolism across major disease areas. Session 3 will address metabolic drivers of neuroinflammation and chronic inflammatory disorders with contributions from Michael Heneka (LUX) and Michela Matteoli (ITA). Session 4 will examine metabolic pathways in cancer, featuring Julia Jellusova (GER) and Claus Desler Madsen (DEN). Session 5 will explore host–pathogen metabolic interactions and infection‑induced immune rewiring with talks from Johan Garaude (FRA), Felix Wvensveen (HR), and Marcela Hortová Kohoutková (CZE). The programme includes abstract‑based oral contributions, a roundtable on diversity and career development, supporting strong early‑career researcher (ECR) engagement. Again, a keynote lecture will be given by Jeff Rathmell (USA), who is on of the top scientists in the field. Day 3: Translational Immunometabolism and Emerging Technologies The final day will highlight translational opportunities, metabolic–epigenetic regulation, and novel analytical tools. Session 6 will feature invited talks by Rafael Argüello (FRA) and Thekla Cordes (GER), followed by abstract‑selected presentations. A closing keynote by Carole Linster (LUX) and the award ceremony will conclude the scientific programme. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | Is EU Law fit for purpose? | EU-FIT | Takis Tridimas | University of Luxembourg | Law & Economics | € 25,000.00 |
| Abstract | European Union law has become the most significant driver of legal change across the Member States, shaping virtually all areas of public and private regulation. In recent years, its scope and intensity have expanded markedly, as the Union has been called upon to respond to successive crises and emerging challenges, including financial instability, migration, threats to the rule of law, technological transformation, climate change, and geopolitical insecurity. At the same time, concerns have grown about the effectiveness, legitimacy, and limits of EU legal intervention, as well as about risks of over-regulation and institutional imbalance. This conference examines whether EU law is fit for purpose. It addresses two interrelated questions. First, does EU law adequately cover the areas in which collective European action is necessary, or are there gaps in competence and normative frameworks that hinder effective responses to societal challenges? Secondly, where EU legal frameworks exist, do they achieve their stated objectives, how can their effectiveness be assessed, and how might they be improved? Bringing together leading scholars, senior judges, policy-makers, and institutional actors, the conference explores these questions from theoretical, institutional, and sector-specific perspectives. Discussions will focus on the role of EU institutions, national governments, and courts in shaping responsive and legitimate law-making; the proper limits of judicial interpretation; and the balance between regulation, market integration, and societal needs. By combining conceptual analysis with concrete case studies across key areas of EU law, the conference aims to stimulate a coherent and critical debate on the present and future capacity of EU law to meet the challenges facing European society. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | History of Games Conference 2027 – From Play to Display: The Musealisation of Video Games | HoG27 | Sandra Camarda | University of Luxembourg | Humanities & Social Sciences | € 20,000.00 |
| Abstract | The History of Games international conference series is a well-established global initiative that acts as a key catalyst for academic research on gaming history. Over the years, it has brought together scholars, archivists, curators, and practitioners to disseminate research and preservation initiatives, exchange methodologies, and develop durable international networks across disciplines. For the 2027 edition, the Luxembourg Centre for Contemporary and Digital History (C²DH) at the University of Luxembourg proposes to host the conference under the theme “”From Play to Display””, focusing on the musealisation of video games. As games increasingly enter museums, archives, and collections, questions arise concerning how their histories are constructed, preserved, and exhibited, and which narratives are prioritised or marginalised in the process. The conference will address the challenges of preserving video games as both technical objects and cultural practices, exploring issues such as emulation, documentation, metadata standards, and the role of amateur and grassroots preservation initiatives. It will also examine curatorial strategies for exhibiting games as playable experiences, historical artefacts, artworks, or media texts, as well as the tensions between physical exhibitions and digital or hybrid forms of access. Particular attention will be given to counter-histories and regional perspectives that challenge dominant canons, including European microcomputer cultures, informal markets, modding communities, and non-Western gaming contexts. Hosted at the Belval campus, the conference will benefit from the C²DH’s extensive experience in organising international events, state-of-the-art hybrid facilities, and a strong commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and sustainability. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| International Scientific Conference (ISC) | Sustainable Places 2026 | SP2026 | Sylvain Kubicki | Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) | Sustainable resources | € 35,000.00 |
| Abstract | Sustainable Places 2026 is a three-day international scientific conference dedicated to advancing sustainability in the built environment, gathering researchers, innovators, industry leaders and policy makers from across Europe and beyond. Taking place at the ECCL in Luxembourg, the event features high-level keynote speeches, scientific paper sessions, and project-organised clustering workshops addressing decarbonisation, digitalisation, urban resilience, energy systems, and circular construction. A dedicated BIM&BAU Luxembourg track will build on the success of the November 2025 BIMLUX & Sustainable Construction and Resilient Cities Conference, engaging national and Greater Region stakeholders and showcasing regional innovations to the European R&I community. This track will also highlight collaborative initiatives, strengthen cross-border knowledge exchange, and give visibility to emerging tools and methods shaping the future of digital and sustainable construction. The SP2026 programme follows an open and inclusive approach, with calls for papers and workshops widely disseminated and hybrid participation enabling broad accessibility for both established experts and early career researchers. Strong emphasis is placed on scientific excellence, interdisciplinarity, and the connection between EU-funded research, policy priorities and market uptake. Young researchers are actively supported through reduced student rates, targeted sessions, and opportunities to present posters or flash talks, fostering early integration into the European R&I landscape. All sessions are streamed and archived to ensure long-term visibility, and contributors are encouraged to publish in the SP2026 Open Research Europe collection, reinforcing the conference’s commitment to open and impactful knowledge dissemination. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series (LS) | Flare Research Lecture Series on Contemporary Challenges | FLARE RLS | Frédéric Docquier | Luxembourg Institute of Socio-Economic Research (LISER) | Law & Economics | € 15,000.00 |
| Abstract | Designed as LISER’s flagship seminar series, the Flare Research Lecture Series on Contemporary Challenges (Flare RLS) is a central pillar of its academic and societal mission. The series is based on the principle that regular, high-quality seminars are essential for academic excellence, providing continuous exposure to cutting-edge research, fostering intellectual exchange and integrating Luxembourg’s research community within international scholarly networks. Following the success of the first edition, the 2027 Flare RLS builds on this by offering a structured, visible and recurring platform for academic dialogue in Luxembourg. The Flare RLS brings together leading international scholars and emerging experts to address major contemporary challenges through four thematically coherent strands: (i) Healthy lives and social inequalities; (ii) Education and digital skills; (iii) Land and sustainable change; (iv) Evolving geopolitical landscape. These themes are closely aligned with national research priorities and LISER’s Multiannual Plan for 2026–29, which emphasises evidence-based policymaking, societal relevance, and informed public debate. The lecture series therefore combines scientific excellence with policy relevance, strengthening the connection between academic research and decision-making processes. A key strength of Flare RLS is its inclusive and outward-looking design. While the series is firmly rooted in the social sciences, it actively engages researchers, students, practitioners and stakeholders from Luxembourg’s research institutions, as well as the public and private sectors. Speaker selection follows a bottom-up process within a clear strategic framework, ensuring scientific quality and relevance for diverse audiences. Particular attention is paid to achieving gender and geographic balance, reflecting LISER’s institutional commitments. Flare RLS also stands out for its emphasis on interaction and capacity building. Each lecture is embedded within a broader programme that includes informal lunches, targeted meetings with research units, exchanges with PhD students, and opportunities for methodological workshops. These formats maximise knowledge transfer, stimulate new collaborations, and support early-career researchers. The series is further strengthened by LISER’s commitment to co-funding and the integration of visiting scholars from the IZA@LISER global research network. Finally, Flare RLS benefits from a robust and professional visibility strategy that combines institutional communication channels, social media outreach, live streaming and joint flagship events with the University of Luxembourg. Overall, the initiative provides a sustainable, high-impact platform that enhances Luxembourg’s research ecosystem, promotes international excellence and meaningfully contributes to policy-relevant knowledge and societal understanding. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series | Lecture Series in Cancer Research 2027 | LSCR27 | Bassam Janji | Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) | Life sciences, biology & medicine | € 18,000.00 |
| Abstract | The Lecture Series in Cancer Research (LSCR) 2027 is a scientific program designed to strengthen advanced training, foster interdisciplinary exchange, and enhance the international visibility of cancer research in Luxembourg within the rapidly evolving landscape of precision oncology. Coordinated by the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) and the University of Luxembourg (UL), and co-organized with the Luxembourg Research Clinic (LRC), the LSCR brings together fundamental researchers, clinician-scientists, and data scientists to address key challenges in contemporary oncology. A key strength of LSCR 2027 is the exceptional quality of its invited speakers panel, which includes Professor James P. Allison, Nobel Laureate and pioneer of immune checkpoint blockade therapies, and Professor Douglas Hanahan, internationally renowned for defining the “Hallmarks of Cancer,” one of the most influential conceptual frameworks in oncology. Their participation, alongside other internationally recognized leaders, positions our LSCR 2027 at the highest level of scientific excellence and offers a unique opportunity for the Luxembourg research community to engage directly with individuals who have fundamentally shaped current paradigms in cancer research and clinical practice. Over 12 months, the program will host 12 outstanding speakers selected through a collaborative process involving principal investigators active in cancer research and clinical oncology in Luxembourg. Speaker selection is based on scientific excellence, relevance to the thematic focus of the series, and strong adherence to diversity, equality, and integrity principles. The scientific program is structured around three synergistic thematic axes: (1) fundamental and translational cancer biology, with emphasis on tumor–immune interactions and molecular mechanisms of cancer progression; (2) biomarker discovery for patient stratification, integrating multi-omics and high-dimensional data to address tumor heterogeneity; and (3) precision and digital oncology, focusing on computational approaches, bioinformatics, and artificial intelligence for translational research and clinical decision-making. All lectures will be delivered in hybrid format to ensure broad national accessibility. Each lecture will be complemented by interactive discussions, networking activities, and dedicated mentoring opportunities for early-career researchers. Through its outstanding speakers, strong institutional partnerships, and emphasis on translation and innovation, LSCR 2027 will significantly enhance Luxembourg’s visibility as an international hub for excellence in multidisciplinary cancer research. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series | Seminars in MAterials Research & Technology (SMAR&T) 2026-2027 | SMAR&T26 | Alexandros Gerakis | Luxembourg Institute of Science & Technology (LIST) | Material Sciences, Physics & Engineering | € 9,000.00 |
| Abstract | This RESCOM program will support the continuation of the organization of the highly successful “Seminars in MAterials Research & Technology” (SMAR&T) seminar series for the 2026-2027 period. The “SMAR&T seminar series” cover a wide range of research disciplines of interest to LIST as well as to the research community in Luxembourg at large, delivered by leading experts from outside Luxembourg. SMAR&T seminars are a bit more than just a 1 hour seminar; invited speakers are also given lab tours, have meetings with LIST and Luxembourg based researchers of interest, interact with our students/postdocs and have a general exchange of ideas with future collaborative proposals in mind. In this context, each seminar speaker spends in total 2-3 days in Luxembourg, and their travel expenses are covered by LIST and the FNR, via the RESCOM funding. An innovative feature of the “SMAR&T Seminar Series” is the introduction of an informal hour meeting after the seminar: here, PhD students and PostDoctoral researchers (no senior researchers are allowed) can interact informally with the speaker, and discuss in an informal way various aspects of the academic life, research in general etc, over light refreshments. The “SMAR&T Seminar Series” are communicated to all interested parties in Luxembourg, such as the University of Luxembourg, industrial collaborators, etc, through mailing lists, as well as through LIST’s social media. Additionally, the “SMAR&T Seminar Series” are streamed in real time, in order to reach a broader, global audience. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series | Who Decides? Trust, Responsibility, and Explainability in AI Systems | T-rex | Lyiola Emmanuel Olatunji | University of Luxembourg | Innovation in services | € 7,500.00 |
| Abstract | Artificial intelligence (AI) systems increasingly shape decision-making across finance, healthcare, public administration, science, and digital services, raising critical questions of explainability, trust, and responsibility. Although we’ve seen advancements in explainable AI (XAI), there’s still a disconnect. The explanations algorithms provide don’t always align with how these systems are used in the real world, nor do they always meet society’s expectations for oversight and accountability. This gap limits the effectiveness of explainability as a tool for oversight, decision-making, and governance, despite its growing importance. This lecture series, called T-rex (Trust, Responsibility, and Explanation in AI systems), tackles this issue. It views explainability not just as a technical challenge, but as a complex interplay of technology, society, and governance. It examines how AI learns, how decisions are made, and how responsibility is distributed throughout the AI’s lifespan. This series is important both nationally and internationally, bringing together perspectives from machine learning, uncertainty modelling, vision, language technologies, and AI governance, and aligns with European regulatory frameworks such as the GDPR and the EU AI Act. The lectures are structured to build understanding, starting with the basics of explainable AI and moving into specific challenges and broader questions of accountability and trust. The series offers a comprehensive, cross-disciplinary look at how AI systems make decisions, how explanations are created and understood, and how we can ensure meaningful accountability. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series | Neuroscience Lecture Series26 | NeuroLS26 | Michael Heneka | University of Luxembourg | Life sciences, biology & medicine | € 21,000.00 |
| Abstract | The Neuroscience Lecture Series (LS) is a longstanding, high‑level scientific initiative organised by the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB) at the University of Luxembourg. The series provides a regular and interdisciplinary platform for scientific exchange across experimental, computational, and translational neuroscience, with a strategic focus on brain ageing, neurodegeneration, and neuroimmune interactions. Through sustained access to internationally recognised experts, the LS strengthens scientific excellence, capacity building, and the international visibility of Luxembourg’s research ecosystem. The scientific programme addresses key contemporary challenges in neuroscience, including neurodegenerative disease mechanisms, neuroinflammation, immune–brain interactions, synaptic biology, genetics, brain ageing, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Lectures integrate complementary methodological approaches such as advanced imaging, multi‑omics data analysis, stem‑cell‑based disease modelling, gene therapy, and computational genomics, reflecting the systems‑level research approach underpinning the LCSB. Approximately one third of the lectures focus specifically on immune mechanisms in the nervous system, while others bridge basic and translational research, ensuring conceptual continuity and scientific synergy across the series. The LS follows a distributed hosting model involving multiple LCSB principal investigators, deliberately engaging early‑ and mid‑career group leaders in programme design and speaker interactions. Each lecture combines a high‑level scientific presentation with extended discussions and dedicated interactions with doctoral candidates and postdoctoral researchers, fostering mentoring, knowledge exchange, and collaboration. Organised biweekly at Campus Belval, the LS is open to the wider Luxembourg research community, including national research institutes and hospitals. As a recurring and well‑established format, the Lecture Series ensures long‑term impact and contributes sustainably to interdisciplinarity, researcher development, and the international profile of neuroscience research in Luxembourg. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series | Lecture Series on Deep Learning and Foundation Models for Computational Biology | DeepBio | Enrico Glaab | University of Luxembourg | Life sciences, biology & medicine | € 22,500.00 |
| Abstract | The recent development of deep learning and foundation models has established a new framework for biological data analysis. By pre-training on large-scale datasets such as protein sequences and gene expression profiles, these models capture complex patterns that enable zero-shot and few-shot learning for tasks like protein structure prediction and cell state classification. This technological shift requires interdisciplinary exchange between machine learning developers and life scientists to refine model design, fine-tuning, and benchmarking for practical research applications. The Lecture Series on Deep Learning and Foundation Models for Computational Biology will foster this required knowledge exchange and cover the key advancements in the field, including protein language models, single-cell foundation models, and the use of variational autoencoders and graph neural networks for multi-omics integration. The programme also explores the application of general-purpose large language models for scientific text mining and hypothesis generation. Technical discussions after the lectures will emphasize practical implementation, focusing on hardware requirements, software workflows, prompt engineering, and the responsible deployment of these technologies in biomedical research. This series is a joint initiative of the Luxembourg Centre for Systems Biomedicine (LCSB) and the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH), featuring 15 lectures scheduled between July 2026 and June 2027. We will organize the lectures in a hybrid format (offering both on-site and online attendance) to support participation from local researchers, doctoral students, and industry representatives, as well as an international online audience. By incorporating practical demonstrations and networking sessions after the lectures, the programme will provide advanced training and facilitate new collaborative projects. The initiative aligns with national infrastructure projects and initiatives, such as the AI4Health programme and the Luxembourg AI Factory, strengthening the country’s research capacity in the field of biomedical artificial intelligence. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series | Mathematics and Applications Colloquium | MaCol | Jean-Marc Schlenker | University of Luxembourg | Innovation in servies | € 12,000.00 |
| Abstract | The Mathematics and Applications Colloquium of the Department of Mathematics (DMATH) at uni.lu is the flagship scientific event of the department. It was started in 2025 with a few talks organized. We intend to expand it and make it regular, with approximately one talk per months over the academic year: depending on the availability of the speakers, we foresee one talk in September, October, November and December 2026, and in February, March, April, May and June (or early July) 2027. We expect the visit of a colloquium speaker to take place over 2-3 days, and ton include: – the colloquium talk itself, followed by questions from the participants, – an informal meetup after the talk, where participants can discuss informally between them and with the invited speakers, – scientific discussions with the experts in the field of the speaker, – at least one networking event, during a lunch/dinner, where participants (and in particular PhD candidates and postdocs) interested in topic can discuss informally with the speaker. We believe that this will ensure that the visit and the talk are benefitting the scientific community in Luxembourg, without putting to much constraints on the speaker. In preparation for the talks that require more specific background knowledge, we plan to organize a “”preparation talk””, of an informal nature, given by one of the experts of the field in Luxembourg, to provide the necessary knowledge to participants. This “”preparation talk”” will take place 2-3 days before the colloquium talk. The events will be publicized within and outside the university of Luxembourg: – through the internal mailing list of DMATH, – by emails to colleagues in other departments, and through their mailing lists, – by mailings to the students of DMATH, – through mailing lists of individuals interested in mathematics, in particular those who have participated in math-related events in the past. The online streaming of the events will also be advertised, in particular through emails to selected colleagues abroad, and possibly through existing mailing lists. The events will be advertised on the webpage of the Math department, and we will inform the Communication officers of the FSTM, so that they can be communicated on suitable media within the Faculty. We will consider partnering with some institutions in Luxembourg (for instance the Section des Sciences of the Institut Grand-Ducal) to give more visibility to the Colloquium within Luxembourg. Each talk will be followed by a social events, where participants can interact informally with the speaker. This social event will be an occasion for the larger community of people in Luxembourg who share an interest in mathematics to meet. In addition, a lunch or dinner (or both) will be organized, to allow in particular the younger members of the department to meet the speaker. | |||||
| Type | Title | Acronym | Applicant | Institution | Domain | FNR Funding |
| Lecture Series | AI/ML for Modern Immunology: Data to Discovery | AIMID | Jonathan Turner | Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH) | Life sciences, biology & medicine | € 10,500.00 |
| Abstract | AI/ML for Modern Immunology: Data to Discovery (AIMID) is a transformative lecture series designed to accelerate Luxembourg’s transition toward AI-powered, patient-centred biomedical research. The series strengthens computational capacity, fosters interdisciplinary exchange, and builds sustainable national expertise. Although spanning seven thematic lectures, its impact comes from the immersive, full-day format that integrates conceptual learning, hands-on analysis, and targeted consultation. Each day begins with a keynote delivered by a world-leading expert, covering frontier developments such as multimodal single-cell integration, spatial proteomics, predictive cohort modelling, immune aging analytics, and digital twins. Speaker selection reflects both scientific excellence and gender equity: AIMID achieves a 42.9% / 57.1% gender distribution, surpassing the 40% minimum requirement. Three leading female researchers – Dr Laleh Haghverdi, Dr Kerstin Meyer, and Prof Nicole Soranzo – stand alongside four male experts, ensuring balanced representation and diverse role models. Following the keynote and a structured networking break, participants engage in an intensive hands-on workshop led onsite by a computational scientist from the speaker’s group, using real or Luxembourg-generated datasets. This ensures that conceptual insights translate immediately into practical skills. The daily programme is deliberately structured to maximise capacity building: • 09:00–10:30 — Keynote lecture by the invited expert • 10:30–11:00 — Coffee break with structured networking • 11:00–12:30 — Hands-on workshop with real datasets • 13:30–15:00 — Lab visits in DIMD/LIH only (three 30-minute consultations) • 15:00–16:00 — Open office hours (15-minute bookable slots) • 16:00–17:00 — Roundtable on AI/ML capacity building • 18:00–20:00 — Working dinner with PIs, postdocs, and visitors This structure enables targeted project acceleration in DIMD through tailored expert consultations, while interdisciplinary engagement is fostered through office hours and roundtables open to Uni.lu, LIST, LISER, LCSB and industry participants. These interactions create national-level cohesion around computational immunology without implying external lab visits. Each day concludes with a working dinner that strengthens collaboration, supports early‑career researchers, and encourages long-term strategic alignment across institutions. By uniting scientific excellence, hands‑on implementation, gender balance, interdisciplinarity, and direct project support, AIMID delivers a high‑impact capacity‑building model positioning Luxembourg to lead in AI‑driven immunology | |||||