International partnerships create the greatest value when they move beyond institutional dialogue and provide a practical route to joint research. ISSP UL has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Multi-Functional Materials and Devices Laboratory at Hanyang University in South Korea, establishing a framework for closer cooperation in research and education.
The memorandum envisages bilateral visits by researchers and graduate students, including participation in lectures, seminars and scientific exchanges. It also provides a basis for cooperative research on topics of common interest, allowing the two institutions to develop joint activities as shared scientific priorities emerge.
The timing gives the agreement broader strategic importance as since 17 July 2025, the Republic of Korea has been formally associated with Pillar II of Horizon Europe: Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness. Korean organisations can receive direct Horizon Europe funding and participate in or lead collaborative research consortia on almost the same conditions as organisations from EU Member States.
For ISSP UL the memorandum creates a foundation for joint European proposals, shared technology development and stronger connections between laboratories and industry. The cooperation supports ISSP UL’s ambition to become an EU-wide deep-tech research hub, combining scientific excellence, international partnerships and effective pathways from laboratory results to market-ready technologies.
