ESFRI elects Elena Hoffert as new chair

The European Strategy Forum on Research Infrastructures (ESFRI) has announced the election of Dr Elena Hoffert as its 10th Chair. Her two-year term will begin in January 2027. The election took place during the 96th ESFRI Forum Meeting in Nicosia, Cyprus, following a recommendation by the Search Committee.

Dr Hoffert brings more than 20 years of experience in academic and scientific management, including the coordination of international research projects, the development of research infrastructures, and collaboration with academic, industrial, and policy stakeholders. She also has extensive knowledge of national and European research programmes.

She will succeed Professor José Luis Martínez and help steer ESFRI’s strategic development, support the implementation of the ESFRI Roadmap, and strengthen the role of research infrastructures within the European Research Area. Working closely with Member States and the European Commission, she is expected to focus on sustainability, accessibility, and resilience across Europe’s research infrastructure landscape.

Her election is also a significant milestone for ESFRI: Dr Hoffert becomes only the third woman to lead the Forum in its nearly 25-year history. Her previous role as ESFRI Vice-Chair is also seen as ensuring continuity in leadership at a critical moment for the European research infrastructure ecosystem.

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