Xjenza Malta opened its third edition of the annual Research and Innovation (R&I) Days on Thursday, 29 October 2026, bringing together researchers, students, academics, industry representatives and other stakeholders for the first day of the two-day event, dedicated to showcasing the impact of publicly funded research and innovation in Malta.
Day 1 featured the R&I EXPO and R&I Conference, showcasing more than 50 projects supported through Xjenza Malta’s national funding programmes. The projects demonstrated the progression of research from early-stage fundamental studies to applied research and prototype development.
The morning R&I EXPO featured 12 projects funded through national funding programmes, giving researchers the opportunity to present their prototypes and engage directly with visitors, including schoolchildren. During the afternoon session, more than 40 completed projects were showcased through documented videos, highlighting the outcomes and impact of Xjenza Malta’s support.
Opening the afternoon session, CEO of Xjenza Malta Silvio Scerri, emphasised the importance of sustained investment in research, recognising the achievements of today while laying the foundations for tomorrow’s discoveries and innovations. Mr Scerri said, “The projects showcased during Xjenza Malta’s R&I Days demonstrate the value of investing in research at every stage, from fundamental science to practical application. By supporting our researchers and encouraging collaboration, we are creating opportunities for new discoveries, innovative solutions and a stronger research ecosystem that will contribute to Malta’s future.”
In 2026, Xjenza Malta awarded €15.7 million in funding for new R&I projects, reinforcing the agency’s commitment to strengthening Malta’s research and innovation ecosystem.
In his introductory remarks, the Permanent Secretary within the Ministry for Justice, Research and Innovation Mr Johan Galea stated that, “We need to form partnerships that bring together different forms of expertise and that connect scientific discovery with the needs of society.”
The afternoon R&I Conference also featured a panel discussion on the transition from basic research to applied research, with contributions from the ERC, the University of Malta, MCAST
and a successful researcher. The discussion explored the opportunities and challenges involved in translating scientific knowledge into practical applications.
Projects presented during the event also illustrated how researchers had further built upon nationally funded work through international collaboration, accessing complementary expertise, research infrastructures and shared scientific capabilities to expand their research endeavours.
In his closing speech, Minister for Justice, Research and Innovation Clifton Grima said that today’s occasion is a celebration of the Research and Innovation community. “The investment, efforts and results in this sector contribute to economic growth, improve our quality of life and create opportunities for future generations,” Minister Grima said.
The day concluded with an awards ceremony and networking reception, celebrating the research achievements whilst fostering new connections across Malta’s research and innovation community.
