JRC launches Security Research and Innovation Campus

Today, the European Commission launched its Security Research and Innovation Campus at the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in Ispra. The Campus is a key element of the ProtectEU Internal Security Strategy, and is designed to bridge the gap between scientific research and operational needs, in order to accelerate the deployment of critical security technologies across Europe. 

Six pillars to strengthen European security 

The Security Campus unites a range of JRC laboratories, bringing together expertise in multiple scientific fields. It is structured around six interlinked pillars that reflect today’s security challenges: space, connectivity and quantum; border management; crisis management; defence; internal security; and nuclear security. This versatility is crucial to respond effectively to hybrid threats and align to real-world operational priorities as they evolve. 

To ensure this strategic alignment, the JRC will work together with key EU agencies, including Frontex, Europol, eu-LISA, and the European Defence Agency, as well as relevant authorities in the Member States and research institutions. 

Hands-on collaboration and state-of-the-art facilities 

The Security Campus also aims to overcome structural challenges in Europe's security ecosystem, such as fragmented knowledge, delayed innovation cycles, and duplicated testing investments. To achieve this, the Campus is designed to be a collaboration hub for national experts and EU internal security practitioners: they will have direct access to the JRC’s world-class research facilities, to targeted training, and to a wide range of collaboration schemes.  

Background  

The security environment and the geopolitical landscape are evolving rapidly. Hybrid threats by hostile foreign states and state-sponsored actors are growing, while powerful organised crime networks proliferate, operating both offline and online. 

Last year, the European Commission presented its ProtectEU Strategy to support Member States and strengthen the EU's ability to guarantee security for its citizens in this rapidly evolving context. ProtectEU takes a foresight approach to EU internal security, guiding investments in security research and innovation. 

Related links 

• JRC Security Research & Innovation Campus - European Commission 
• ProtectEU: European Internal Security Strategy