SNS 5.0: Research, Innovation, and Impact is a specialized training initiative designed to equip PhD students with essential skills in entrepreneurship and research valorization. Organized by Scuola Normale Superiore (SNS) in collaboration with a network of experts in innovation and entrepreneurship, this program runs from April 7 to May 26, 2025. It is open to all PhD students of SNS as well as students from the EELISA network.

This initiative is designed to foster entrepreneurship and maximize the impact of research by providing participants with insights from experienced professionals in innovation and business development. The program aligns with SNS’s commitment to EELISA , benefiting from the active participation of lecturers and students across partner universities.

SNS 5.0, signifies both its five-module structure and its alignment with the concept of Industry 5.0—a vision of collaborative industry that integrates human-centric values and sustainability into productivity and technological advancement. The program aims to cultivate a culture of scientific knowledge enhancement that drives societal, regional, and environmental impact, placing students at the heart of this transformative process.

This cycle of training sessions aspires to promote awareness, develop a culture of knowledge transfer, and establish an SNS model of research impact creation. By targeting PhD students as a key audience, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between academic research and its practical applications.

The program consists of five full-day modules, each comprising three distinct components:

1. Experiences – A two-hour session featuring real-world case studies, with contributions from spin-off companies and research professionals who have successfully implemented innovative solutions. This segment follows a learning by doing approach to provide tangible examples.
2. Training – A theoretical deep dive into entrepreneurship and research valorization topics, led by subject-matter experts. This session lasts approximately two hours.
3. Networking – The day concludes with an informal networking event, including an aperitif with guest speakers, representatives from incubator companies, and other relevant stakeholders. This provides a valuable opportunity for students to engage with industry professionals and experts.

Participation and Venue

The program is primarily designed for PhD students from all three faculties of SNS, though other research personnel interested in the topics covered are welcome to attend. Additionally, students from the EELISA network can participate, onsite or remotely enhancing collaboration and knowledge exchange across institutions.

All sessions will take place at the dedicated facilities of the Polo Tecnologico di Navacchio. An introductory session will be held to present the program and its key contributors.

Language 

To ensure broad accessibility, all lectures and sessions will be conducted in English. This approach facilitates participation from a diverse student body and aligns with the program’s international outlook.

WHEN

4 of April to 26 of May, 2025

WHERE

Online via Teams –  a link will be sent to remote participants

Onsite at POLO TECNOLOGICO NAVACCHIO, PISA ITALY