Târgu Jiu, Romania – 6–8 July 2026
Constantin Brâncuși University (UCB) is hosting the 4th Knowledge Creation Team Workshop (KCTW), bringing together researchers from the ACE²-EU Alliance universities to develop innovative solutions for Cybersecurity & Digital Sovereignty.
Setting the Stage
The workshop opened with a warm welcome from Rector Prof. Luminița Popescu, followed by keynote speeches from Mircea Șcheau (Cyber Security Alliance – Romanian Chapter) and Alexandru Stoica from NCC-RO.
In his keynote, Mircea Șcheau set the tone:
“No solution should be considered infallible. We must eliminate elements of instability so that scenario analysis can deliver results as close to reality as possible.”
Researchers then presented their project ideas, pitching innovative solutions to pressing cybersecurity challenges. The day concluded with team matching and brainstorming.
A Collaborative Journey Day 1 focused on getting to know the participants—their backgrounds, expertise, and how their skills can drive collaborative research to address Europe’s future needs. With 20 participants, including 4 external stakeholders, the workshop began with presentations and networking.
Over the three days, attendees will:
- Share knowledge and refine project concepts
- Develop comprehensive proposals
- Create work packages and posters
- Present ideas for peer feedback
The day ended with an inspiring city tour of Târgu Jiu, offering researchers a taste of Romanian culture and history.
Voices from the Workshop
“We have a smart younger generation. We must guide them to protect the future by deeply understanding our greatest need: cybersecurity. It begins with action—going out, speaking up, and ensuring people grasp its reality. There is no alternative but to act.” — Robert Maxwell, Researcher, University Francisco de Vitoria, Spain
The momentum generated in Târgu Jiu will continue beyond the workshop. In the coming days, participants will refine their project ideas, laying the foundation for future ACE²-EU projects. This process strengthens collaboration across the Alliance and expands international opportunities for students, researchers, and stakeholders in cybersecurity.
