Europe is at the forefront of a new era where artificial intelligence intersects with cutting-edge research. The European AI in Science Summit held in Copenhagen saw the introduction of RAISE – the Resource for Artificial Intelligence Science in Europe, marking a pivotal moment in the continent’s scientific landscape. This innovative virtual institute is dedicated to boosting scientific discovery by leveraging AI to tackle pressing issues such as cancer therapies, earthquake prediction, and environmental crises.
RAISE, Europe’s flagship initiative for scientific innovation, is a key component of the European Strategy for Artificial Intelligence in Science and the Apply AI Strategy. By consolidating Europe’s AI resources, including computational power, data, funding, and talent, RAISE aims to drive frontier AI research and its practical application in the scientific realm. The pilot phase is supported by €107m under the Horizon Europe program, highlighting the EU’s commitment to prioritizing science and technology in its economic and technological agenda.
In addition to advancing scientific research, RAISE aims to strengthen Europe’s leadership in AI science by providing researchers and innovators with access to AI ‘Gigafactories’ and high-performance computing resources. The institute will also assist scientists in identifying data gaps, curating essential datasets, and integrating these resources to enhance AI-driven research outcomes.
A core focus of RAISE is investing in talent and research excellence. The pilot phase allocates €75m to Networks of Excellence and Doctoral Networks to train and retain top AI and scientific professionals. Furthermore, the European Commission plans to double Horizon Europe’s annual investment in AI to over €3bn, with a significant portion dedicated to AI in science research, reinforcing Europe’s global standing in the field.
To foster a collaborative European AI science community, the RAISE pilot has launched a Coordination and Support Action for “Facilitated Cooperation for AI in Science,” funded with €3m. This initiative aims to connect the European AI science community and lay the groundwork for the institute’s further development. Additionally, a new European Research Area (ERA) action will coordinate Member States’ efforts to accelerate AI adoption in research and science.
RAISE will evolve in phases to keep pace with rapid innovation and changing needs. Following the pilot phase, the European Commission will collaborate with Member States, research institutions, universities, and the private sector to expand the institute under the next long-term EU budget (2028–2034). Governance, pooled resources, and long-term sustainability will ensure that RAISE continues to evolve alongside scientific and technological advancements.
With RAISE, Europe is redefining the landscape of scientific research by integrating AI with fundamental research to drive breakthroughs that enhance lives, advance knowledge, and solidify Europe’s position as a global innovation hub. This initiative heralds a transformative approach to AI science, ushering in a new era where artificial intelligence empowers discovery and scientific progress across the continent.
