Investing in Research is the main topic of the introductory discussion of the second conference on Health-Biotechnology-Economy Synergy Structures. We must realize that research is not only part of development but also a key element in the defense of a country. It is truly a matter of survival for a country to invest in research. Let us not forget that development is based on innovation, and innovation is based on research.
All the major and technologically advanced countries have realized this, and that is why they invest huge amounts of capital, in the billions of dollars, into research.
Unfortunately, research is not sufficiently supported in Greece, as there are still people who believe that research and researchers are either useless or even dangerous.
On the other hand – fortunately – we have an extremely important and valuable scientific workforce, which should be supported.
The Path of Research
However, the path of research that can bring innovation to our country is long and uphill. There is still much to be done. One of these things is to de-stigmatize risk. We must embrace the founders of start-ups. We need to understand that the mission of research organizations is not only scientific discovery but also wealth creation. For the country and society, research is intertwined with our dignity and prestige.
At least, by 2024, we are seeing for the first time the beginning of a real effort for defensive innovation that will involve Greek research organizations. A joint stock company was created by the Ministry of National Defense and the Hellenic Public Assets Fund, called the Hellenic Center for Defense Innovation, whose goal is to support the startup ecosystem, primarily in dual-use technologies. Naturally, biotechnology plays a significant role there.
We also see that all of Europe is shifting toward dual-use technologies, where research considers applications for both peaceful and defense purposes.
The Introductory Discussion of the Seminar
Among others, the introductory statements at the conference on Health Biotechnology were made by Konstantinos Drosatos (University of Cincinnati, USA, President of ARISTEiA, and General Secretary of Komvos’ Board of Directors), Nikos Kyrpides (Berkeley National Laboratory, USA, and Board Member of Komvos), and George Nounesis (National Centre for Scientific Research “Demokritos” and Board Member of Komvos).
The biotechnology conference, organized by Komvos in collaboration with the ARISTEiA Institute, aims to activate the potential of the biotechnology sector in Greece, highlight the comparative advantages of Hellenism in Research, and create the conditions necessary for its development.
It is already known that the health biotechnology sector will reach a turnover of approximately $300 billion within the next 3-4 years, and Greece cannot afford to miss out on this trend.
Investing in Research
Komvos, as a Think-Act and not just a think tank, in collaboration with the ARISTEiA Institute, has already begun the process of drafting a feasibility study for the creation of a health biotechnology park in Greece.
The coordinators of this initiative are Konstantinos Drosatos and Nikos Kyrpides. The event is organized by Bioinnovation Greece and was held as part of the Bio³ conference.
The conference was sponsored by the pharmaceutical company DEMO ABEE. Komvos would also like to thank its supporter, the accounting and consulting firm ECOVIS-ONETAX, and its Major Sponsor, Piraeus Bank, for supporting its vision.
The introductory session of the conference concluded with the screening of a short video featuring key moments from the discussions held during the 1st conference on Health-Biotechnology-Economy Synergy Structures.
