Fund | European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) |
Total project funding | 470 165 EUR |
EU funding | 399 640,25 EUR |
Beneficiary | Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences |
Project No. | 1.1.1.2/1/25/I/008 |
GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION
The aim of the project “Development of RIS3 Research Infrastructure at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences” is to develop research infrastructure that supports the University’s growth in the following areas of Latvia’s Smart Specialisation Strategy (Research and Innovation Strategy for Smart Specialisation, RIS3): Information and Communication Technologies and Knowledge-Intensive Bioeconomy. The project is aligned with the University’s research achievements and strategic specialisation and aims to strengthen the capacity of Latvia’s innovation system in line with RIS3.
The project will support four research areas, selected based on their high innovation potential:
Virtual Reality Technologies and Visualisation – support for the Virtual and Augmented Reality Laboratory.
Socio-Technical Systems Modelling Technologies – support for the Robotics and Automation Laboratory.
Cybersecurity – support for the Cybersecurity Laboratory.
Sustainable and Circular Construction – support for the Sustainable Construction Laboratory.
PROJECT PROGRESS
Procurement of state-of-the-art virtual reality and visualisation technology equipment has begun. Video equipment, desktop and laptop computers with VR-compatible graphics processing units (GPUs), various types of standalone and professional virtual and mixed reality (VR/MR) headsets, motion, eye-tracking, facial expression and physiological data sensors, as well as software licences, have been purchased.
The Robotics and Automation Laboratory is also being equipped. To date, laptops, 3D printers and the materials required to operate them have been purchased for the laboratory.
A major public outreach event, European Researchers’ Night 2026, was held to attract media interest and public attention. The event brought together nearly 400 participants. Visitors explored how questions and research processes lead to solutions that drive change in society, the economy, technology and the region. The activities offered participants the opportunity not only to observe and learn, but also to experiment, test assumptions, take part in discussions and discover study opportunities at Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences related to various research fields.
NEWS
