Warwick Celebrates European Collaboration as Host of the Guild of Research-Intensive Universities General Assembly
The University of Warwick proudly hosted the General Assembly of the Guild of Research-Intensive European Universities on 23-24 October 2025, marking a key moment in its 60th Anniversary year. As a founding member of the Guild in 2016, Warwick has consistently championed European collaboration and continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of research and education across the continent.
The two-day Assembly welcomed Presidents and senior leaders from Guild member institutions for strategic discussions on the future of European research and education. Topics included the development of Framework Programme 10 (FP10), the MFF and European R&I, the evolution of the Erasmus+ programme, and strengthening North-South collaboration to ensure balanced and inclusive growth across Europe’s academic landscape.
Distinguished guests enriched the discussions with their expertise and insights. Professor Chris Johnson, Chief Scientific Adviser at the UK Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, and Professor Jimmy Volmink, Chief Executive for Equity at the Wellcome Trust, joined the Assembly in person, contributing valuable perspectives on research strategy, policy and equity. Online contributions from Manuel Aleixo, Cabinet Expert to the European Commissioner for Startups, Research and Innovation; and Vanessa Debiais-Sainton, European Commission Member of Cabinet for People, Skills and Preparedness, highlighted the importance of aligning national and European priorities to foster innovation and inclusion.
Professor George Christou, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Europe), reflected on the significance of the event in Warwick’s anniversary year:
Hosting the Guild’s General Assembly at Warwick is a proud moment for us as a deeply European and globally connected university. As we celebrate our 60th Anniversary, we reflect on our long-standing commitment to international collaboration and shared academic values.
The discussions on FP10, European R & I, Erasmus+, Global Europe and equitable partnerships reaffirm the importance of working together across borders to address common challenges and opportunities. The Guild continues to be a vital platform for enhancing the voice of our members in important European policy developments, and fostering excellence, inclusion, and solidarity in European research and education. Warwick is proud to play an active role in that collective endeavour.
As the Guild prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary in 2026, Warwick remains committed to deepening its engagement and supporting collaborative initiatives that advance research, education, and mobility across Europe. The University looks forward to continuing its work with the Guild to shape a more connected, inclusive, and innovative European academic community.
