UNITE! – The University Network for Innovation, Technology, and Engineering is a strategic alliance among leading European universities.
In 2019, seven universities decided to cooperate based on a shared commitment to innovation, technology, and engineering, launching the first Erasmus+ Unite! project. In 2022, the project was extended with the addition of two new partners, increasing the number of participating institutions to nine. This alliance aims to create a strategic network that goes beyond the initial European project, reflecting the strong commitment of its partners and actively involving all academic and administrative staff.
The alliance seeks to redefine the future of higher education by creating a hybrid trans-European campus that promotes inclusivity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and cross-border academic exchange. It aims to enhance the international competitiveness of higher education through integrated training and research programs. UNITE!, however, is not limited to education; it addresses global challenges, such as those linked to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and fosters digital and green transitions.
The alliance is coordinated by Technische Universität Darmstadt, with the Politecnico di Torino participating as a member of all governance bodies.
UNITE!'s core activities are organized into nine Communities, each focusing on specific aspects of its mission. The communities are coordinated by one of the Alliance members and are organized into thematic tasks. Politecnico di Torino coordinates Community 7, “Doctoral Education for Research, Innovation, and Society”, which focuses on improving doctoral training programs and aligning them with societal needs and innovations in research.