The visit was organised in a hybrid format, with the possibility to participate online via Microsoft Teams. The aim of the two-day meeting was to exchange experience between project partners and deepen knowledge of institutional structures supporting research, grants, and international projects.

The first day began with a welcome address and an introduction to the objectives of the visit by Danilo Corradini from CNR, Institute for Biological Systems. This was followed by a session led by Leonardo Piccinetti from REDINN, who discussed the strategic context of research management in Horizon Europe.

The programme also included sessions dedicated to the work of the CNR Technology Transfer Office, including policies and tools supporting research valorisation, spin-off development, and the strengthening of national and international partnerships. Participants also learned about CNR’s support structures for European research funding, grant and research infrastructure offices, and ERC grant applicants.

The second day had a more practical focus. Participants took part in a session on how to read and interpret Horizon Europe calls, led by Leonardo Piccinetti from REDINN. Administrative and financial aspects of Horizon Europe project management, including practical insights and cost models, were also presented by Niccolò Bencini from CNR – Institute for Applied Mathematics.

An important part of the programme was also the session on project communication and increasing the impact of scientific results among external audiences. Stefania Giuffrida from CNR – Institute for Applied Mathematics presented the CNR IAC strategy for effective project communication and public engagement.

The study visit provided an important opportunity to exchange knowledge and good practices in research project management, science communication, and international cooperation within the PATHFOOD project.