Peter Ertl

Vice-Rector Research, Innovation and International Affairs at the Technische Universität Wien (TUW)

Biography

Peter Ertl has been Vice-Rector for Research, Innovation and International Affairs at the Technische Universität Wien (TUW) since October 2023. He completed his degree in Food Sciences and Biotechnology at BOKU in Vienna and his doctorate in Chemistry at the University of Waterloo (Canada). He worked as a postdoc at the renowned University of Berkeley (USA). In 2006, he returned to Austria to the Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT). Ertl was repeatedly drawn abroad, going to UC Berkeley on a Fulbright scholarship and as a visiting scientist to Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, the Medical Centre at the University of San Francisco and Imperial College London. In 2016, he joined the Faculty of Technical Chemistry as Full Professor and became Head of the Lab-on-a-Chip Group at the Institute of Applied Synthetic Chemistry at TU Wien. In April 2022, Peter Ertl was honoured for his research work with the National Research Prize for his work on Alternative Methods to Animal Experiments, awarded by the Federal Ministry of Education, Science and Research. In 2023 he became Vice Rector for Research, Innovation and International Affairs.

Plenary Title: From Fundamentals to Frontiers: Building Bridges Between Science and Innovation

In the face of global challenges and rapidly evolving technologies, the traditional roles of universities are being redefined. This presentation explores the growing significance of the "third mission" of academia—societal outreach and the transfer of knowledge and sustainable technologies to industry. As academic innovation emerges as a cornerstone for enhancing Europe’s competitiveness, universities must evolve beyond their conventional structures. To effectively bridge research and industry, particularly through academic start-ups, institutions must first adapt internally. This includes streamlining access to funding, modernizing rigid administrative processes, and fostering a dynamic innovation ecosystem that supports early-stage ventures. By reimagining their operational frameworks, universities can become true enablers of innovation, helping transform fundamental research into tangible, impactful solutions for society.

Lee, Seok Lae

Secretary General of the National Research Foundation of Korea

Biography

Seok Lae Lee is Secretary General of the National Research Foundation of Korea (NRF), appointed July 2024. With over 30 years in Korea's science policy sector, he previously served as Director General at MSIT and Chairperson of National Science Museum. He holds degrees from Seoul National University (Agriculture) and Hanyang University (Public Administration). His expertise spans science policy, R&D evaluation, and international cooperation.

Plenary Title: New Horizons for Korean Basic Science: Policy Changes and International Cooperation Strategies

This keynote speech aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the implications of the new Korean government's science and technology policy trends on basic science. It seeks to present the new changes in Korea's basic research support system and the firm commitment of both the government and the NRF to its advancement. Additionally, the speech will offer strategic insights for ensuring the continuity and excellence of basic research through enhanced international cooperation mechanisms, navigating the complexities of domestic policy changes. We will particularly highlight the significance of global collaborative platforms such as Horizon Europe and discuss Korea's concrete participation strategies.

Georg Kopetz

Co-founder and Member of the Executive Board (CEO) at TTTech

Biography

Georg Kopetz is co-founder and member of the executive board (CEO) at TTTech, a leading high-tech company in Central Europe. He is responsible for the overall strategy of the corporation, marketing & sales, finance, human resources as well as the business units Aerospace and Industrial solutions. He studied law at the University of Vienna and Paris. Since 2023, he is also a member of FORWIT, the Austrian Council for Sciences, Technology and Innovation, providing independent advice to the federal government of Austria

Plenary Title: Opportunities with innovations from TTTech for industrial tech to strengthen Korea and the European Union

The presentation titled "Opportunities with Innovations from TTTech for Industrial Tech to Strengthen Korea and the European Union" highlights TTTech's innovative advancements in various sectors. It covers the company's 25-year history as a university spin-off, the impact of megatrends like AI at the Edge and autonomy, and the development of platforms such as Nerve and Ubique for IIoT. The presentation also explores autonomy in mobile machinery, integrated modular avionics in aerospace, and TTTech's role in fostering collaboration ecosystems. Success stories and future directions are also discussed, emphasizing TTTech's pioneering contributions to various industries.

Cho, Seok Jin

Senior Executive Vice President& Chief Nuclear Officer (CNO)

Biography

□ Education ○ 1993. 02. Nuclear Engineering, Kyung-Hee Univ. □ Professional Experience ○ 1993. 02. Joined KHNP ○ 2017. 07. Vice President of Corporate Communications Office ○ 2018. 07. Director of Construction Office Saeul Nuclear Power Site ○ 2020. 07. Director General of Construction Office Saeul Nuclear Power Site ○ 2021. 12. Director General of Central Research Institute ○ 2022. 12. Site Vice President of Saeul Nuclear Power Site ○ 2023. 12. Executive Vice President of Power Generation Division ○ 2025. 04. Senior Executive Vice President & CNO

Plenary Title: The Era of New Electricity and the Role of Nuclear Power

The rapid advancement of digital technologies and artificial intelligence is accelerating global electrification. As electricity-intensive industries such as data centers and semiconductors expand, the global competition for stable and affordable energy is intensifying. In this context, nuclear power is emerging as the most realistic energy solution—combining eco-friendliness, cost-effectiveness, and unmatched capacity utilization. Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) currently supplies one-third of the nation’s electricity. KHNP is expanding its capabilities across international nuclear exports, the development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and clean hydrogen production. Key strengths include standardized construction experience, advanced safety performance, and a global supply chain that enables competitive, on-time, and on-budget project execution. SMRs, in particular, are considered next-generation power sources due to their scalability, flexibility, and high economic feasibility. They can serve a variety of applications—from power-intensive industries and hydrogen production to data centers—without the constraints of traditional grid systems. SMRs also offer a viable solution for replacing aging coal-fired plants and revitalizing regional economies. To ensure the sustainable expansion of nuclear energy, consistent long-term policy frameworks and the training of skilled professionals are imperative. As a high-barrier industry requiring capital, advanced technology, and policy stability, nuclear power represents a field in which Korea can lead the global shift. In this new era of electricity, nuclear energy offers a practical and sustainable pathway to achieving national energy security and industrial competitiveness.