In the industrial world we are daily faced with societal challenges and problems, which need to be solved in a multidisciplinary pioneering approach. Innovative answers are the only ones that can guarantee recognition and career opportunities. PhD candidates usually act as individuals on tasks that have already a well-defined research line but are not necessary connected to the challenges and opportunities of the market. The value of new ideas is not fully perceived and the interdependence of market needs with research focus is still missing.
TOP STARS 2018 offers to PhD students and young researchers a chance to consider the respective research projects more on an innovation and market-oriented focus contributing in this way to interconnect research and societal challenges, which have to be considered as business opportunities. PhD students and young researchers will have the chance to have an I&E perspective, becoming not only valuable researchers but potential entrepreneurs by combining the technical expertise with innovation and entrepreneurship experience. The Summer School will introduce students to entrepreneurial thinking and behavior, business and innovation processes, high-tech ventures marketing and business model generation techniques.