The European commission defines it in the publication “Fostering knowledge valorisation through the arts and cultural institutions (2022)” , as the “process where knowledge is effectively absorbed by specific target groups, users and society. Fostering the valorisation of knowledge coming from research can take place during all phases of the knowledge chain – from formulating the right research questions to communicating about and applying new research results or innovations. As such, the knowledge valorisation process is not a linear process in which valorisation only starts at the end of the chain. It rather occurs through the interaction of multiple actors along the entire knowledge flow”.

One of the biggest challenges is that each group speaks a different “language.” Researchers, artists, industry partners, and citizens often have their own ways of thinking, working, and communicating, which can make it hard to understand each other. On top of that, universities and institutions don’t always have the right structures, like evaluation systems or connecting platforms, to help bridge these gaps. Through Rock your Research, we’re creating spaces like the Rock It Cafés and Labs where these groups can meet, listen, and collaborate, helping to break silos and build trust. 

The name comes from the energy and creativity of the arts, especially rock music. Just like a rock performance goes beyond expectations and inspires the crowd, our project encourages researchers, artists, and civic society to break silos, explore overlooked potential, and share their passion with others. Rock Your Research is about making knowledge feel alive, by turning universities into spaces where creativity, science, and society come together.