Europe holds a strong position in scientific research on emerging technologies, according to the Joint Research Centre (JRC) technical report on Weak signals in Science and Technologies – 2024. The new report analyses emerging technologies in key areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and biotechnologies, which have the potential to improve Europe’s competitiveness across different fields.
Why early detection of new technology matters
Anticipating emerging technologies is crucial for Europe's competitiveness as it allows policymakers to harness their benefits while addressing potential societal, economic, and security impacts.
The newly published research builds on a quantitative methodology, developed by the JRC in 2019, designed to detect “weak signals of technology development” or very early indicators of emerging technologies that could lead to cutting-edge research in the field.
221 technologies
The aim of the report, the fourth of its kind, is then to provide new insights into the latest developments in emerging technologies and analyse their potential impact on society. In it, experts have looked at a set of 221 emerging technologies detected over the course of 2024 and have distributed them in twelve thematic clusters going from e-Health to aerospace.
Many of the emerging technologies detected are also related to artificial intelligence and machine learning, with applications in fields such as healthcare, finance, and transportation. The report highlights the potential of these technologies to transform industries and improve people's lives. For example, artificial intelligence can be used to develop personalised medicines, while machine learning can improve the efficiency of transportation systems.
Europe researches, US patents
When it comes to scientific research, the new JRC Technical Report shows that Europe holds a strong position for most of the 221 emerging technologies and categories. Especially in the clusters of digital twins (virtual replicas of physical objects), artificial intelligence and machine learning, therapeutics and biotechnologies, energy, and environment and agriculture.
European organisations significantly contribute to scientific publications and are responsible for the top 1% most impactful scientific articles. But, whilst Europe excels in terms of scientific publications, the report shows that the United States and China are leading in patenting and are also at the forefront of producing scientific knowledge across most clusters of the emerging technologies in the study.
In practice, this means that while the United States, China, and Europe are together at the forefront of producing scientific knowledge, European organisations are less inclined to patent their research results than those in China or the United States.
The report also highlights the importance of international collaboration and knowledge exchanges. In order to maintain its competitive edge, Europe needs to address its gaps in patenting and strategically invest in the improvement of its currently fragmented R&D landscape. By supporting the development of emerging technologies, the EU can promote innovation, competitiveness, and sustainable growth, and improve the lives of its citizens.
Read the full report here: Weak signals in science and technologies 2024 - Publications Office of the EU
Details
- Publication date
- 17 February 2025
- Author
- Joint Research Centre
- JRC portfolios
