The application deadline is fast approaching on April 20, 2026. Don't miss your chance to join Europe's leading scholars for an intensive, highly collaborative exploration of science, technology, and industrial policy.
The European Union stands at a critical juncture. Faced with sluggish economic growth, rising geopolitical tensions, a cliamte emergency, and an increasingly fierce global race for emerging technologies, the need for robust, evidence-based innovation policy is as pressing as ever.
Following the resounding success of our 2024 edition on Strategic Autonomy (LUISS, Rome) and the 2025 edition on the Green and Digital Transitions (UNU-MERIT, Maastricht), we are thrilled to announce the third edition of our PhD Summer School.
This year, the programme heads to the Bureau d’Économie Théorique et Appliquée (BETA) at the University of Strasbourg from June 29 to July 1, 2026. Co-organised by BETA, LUISS University, and UNU-MERIT, the 2026 edition focuses on Europe’s Innovation Nexus: Science, Technology, and Industrial Policy.
What to Expect in 2026
Rooted in the Schumpeterian tradition and inspired by 2025 Nobel laureates, the 2026 curriculum is designed to help PhD students and early-career researchers get to up to speed on how scientific breakthroughs and technological change translate into sustained economic growth in the current global order.
Across three days, participants will learn about:
• Day 1: Science Policy – Exploring the economics of scientific production and the transformative role of AI in research (led by Prof. Robin Cowan and Dr. Stefano Bianchini).
• Day 2: Tech Policy – Delving into structural and technical change, including the geography of data centres and digital infrastructures (led by Dr. Tommaso Ciarli and Prof. Maria Savona).
• Day 3: Industrial Policy – Analysing how European policymakers can identify and foster specialisation patterns in new products, featuring Prof. Valentina Meliciani and Dr. Filippo Bontadini.
• Keynote: A keynote address by Prof. Alan Kirman.
The "Schumpeterian" Leverage: A Seamless Transition to ISS2026
The 2026 Summer School has been scheduled to culminate just before the International Schumpeter Society Conference (ISS2026), which is also taking place in Strasbourg from July 1–4. This offers participants an opportunity to boost their fresh insights and networks directly into a broader, globally renowned research community.
Why Attend? Hear from our 2025 Alumni
We consistently strive to build an environment that is both academically rigorous and collaborative. When asked if they would recommend the Summer School, our 2025 alumni were unanimous. Here is what they had to say:
"110% yes! The most insightful and inspiring academic environment a young researcher could find themselves in. The faculty members were exceptionally accessible and there to help with suggestions and feedback."
"I highly recommend this Ph.D. Summer School. The lectures were at the forefront of the field, and the invited discussants provided constructive, in-depth feedback that significantly contributed to improving our research."
We have taken past feedback to heart: he summer school schedule ensures plenty of dedicated time for student presentations, highly actionable 1-on-1 feedback, and networking sessions.
How to Apply (Deadline is April 20)
With the deadline just days away, now is the time to finalize your application.
• Dates: June 29 – July 1, 2026
• Location: BETA, University of Strasbourg, France
• Cost: Participation is free for selected students (travel and accommodation are not covered).
• Deadline: April 20, 2026
Application Procedure:
Send an email to leap@luiss.it with the subject line "Jean Monnet Summer School 2026 – application – Name Surname". Please attach:
1. Your Curriculum Vitae.
2. A short motivational statement.
3. Your most recent research paper (or PhD chapter), even in draft format.
Join us in Strasbourg to understand, critique, and shape the future of Europe’s innovation and industrial policy landscape.