The Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, Nicodemos Damianou, PhD, participated in the inaugural session of the newly composed National Council for Research and Innovation (NCRI). Congratulating the newly appointed President, Prof. Philippos Patsalis, and the council’s distinguished members, Damianou expressed his hopes for a productive and impactful term.

The NCRI serves as the highest advisory body of the Republic of Cyprus on strategic planning for research, technological development, and innovation. Its primary goals include:

• Developing a Long-Term Strategic Plan: The council is tasked with formulating long-term strategies aligned with Vision 2035, along with policies and initiatives to maximize the impact of research and innovation (R&I) investments.

• Enhancing International Orientation: The council aims to strengthen the global orientation and outreach of Cyprus’ innovation ecosystem.

• Supporting Emerging Talent: It focuses on nurturing the next generation of talent in research and innovation.

• Monitoring Strategy Implementation: Systematic monitoring of the R&I strategy and the Smart Specialization Strategy is a key responsibility.

“Together, we are shaping a competitive innovation ecosystem that generates added value for society and strengthens the country’s development trajectory,” said Deputy Minister Damianou.

The newly appointed NCRI is composed of leading academics, industry professionals, and government representatives:

• President: Prof. Philippos Patsalis, University of Nicosia

• Andreas Anayiotos: Professor at Cyprus University of Technology (CUT)

• Alexis Pantazis: Co-Founder of Hellas Direct

• Prof. Dr. Phoebe Koundouri: Professor at Athens University of Economics and Business, Director of ReSEES Research Lab, Director of Sustainable Development Unit at ATHENA Research Center, and Professor at Technical University of Denmark

• Maria Georgopoulou: Director of the Gennadius Library, American School of Classical Studies at Athens

• Philippos Leandrou: IT and Technology Specialist

• Michael Tyrimos: IT Specialist, Founder, and CEO of Capacitor Partners

• George Komodromos: Acting Director General of the Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy

• Demetris Skourides: Chief Scientist

The council’s Secretariat is managed by the Directorate of Research and Innovation of the Ministry.

The NCRI is responsible for a wide range of strategic functions, including:

• Strategic Planning: Preparing recommendations for the formulation of long-term R&I strategies, including the establishment of strategic priorities and objectives on an annual basis.

• International Outreach: Proposing measures to enhance international orientation and nurture a culture of research and innovation among the youth.

• Policy Development: Providing recommendations for policy measures, initiatives, and funding programs aimed at achieving the socioeconomic goals set by the long-term strategy for sustainable development.

• Research Assessment: Conducting studies and assessments on the state of research and innovation in Cyprus, including foresight studies that consider European Union findings and engage external experts.

• Annual Reports: Preparing periodic reports that assess the current state of R&I in Cyprus, with a focus on addressing long-standing weaknesses in the ecosystem.

• Smart Specialization Strategy Monitoring: Overseeing the implementation of the Smart Specialization Strategy and preparing an annual progress report with recommendations for the Ministry.

The three-year term of the council members will end on February 4, 2028. The newly appointed members are expected to bring their expertise to drive Cyprus’ research and innovation ecosystem forward.