Nantes University obtains I-site NExT certification

A key milestone has been reached in the development of Nantes University with I-site certification of the institution confirmed by the State. This followed the recommendation of the international panel of the Investments for the Future programme (PIA), which interviewed the Nantes delegation on 14 January. The decision, which comes shortly after the launch of Nantes University on 1 January 2022, concludes a process initiated in 2017 and represents the final stage of approval for NExT's (Nantes Excellence Trajectory) implementation.

NExT focuses on two major areas - health of the future and industry of the future - with a knock-on effect on all disciplines and a strong role for human and social sciences. It is designed to consolidate an innovative trajectory in research, training and technology transfer, backed by ambitious policies for campus life and international attractiveness. The financial resources allocated to Nantes University through this certification, in the range of €10 to 12 million per year, combined with contributions from local authorities and companies, will help accelerate the development of numerous projects such as: establishment of strategic partnerships with key universities in our two key areas, recruitment of internationally-renowned researchers, development of innovative and attractive training courses, construction of a complete innovation ecosystem in conjunction with socio-economic players, as well as increased support for campus life and student life.

Jean-Baptiste Avrillier, Director of Centrale Nantes:

I am delighted with the recognition of our joint project bringing together Nantes' academic institutions. The I-site certification opens up new opportunities for the Pays de la Loire region in terms of research, training, innovation and international collaboration. By joining forces, we are facilitating student pathways between our courses and bringing the scientific communities closer together. Nantes University is thus ideally placed to drive the ambitious projects required to meet the challenges of ecological and societal transition.

Carine Bernault, President of Nantes Université, praising the collective effort that has led to the final accreditation:

Throughout all the phases of the project, even the most difficult, we have been able to persevere and adapt while remaining faithful to the values and ambitions that we hold dear. I would like to thank all the staff involved for their commitment, as well as the local authorities, partners, elected representatives, companies and socio-economic partners for their unfailing support. We can be proud of this recognition, for our institution and for our plans for an excellent, sustainable and open university.

Philippe El Saïr, Director of Nantes University Hospital:

After the laying of the foundation stone of the new Ile-de-Nantes hospital, at the heart of the future health district, the perpetuation of the NExT site in Nantes, which focuses on "health and the industry of the future", is a tremendous step forward. This decision reinforces the legitimacy of Nantes' ambitions in the health sector, both at national and European level.