HELIOS Doctoral Network Convenes for Mid-Term Review Meeting in Hasselt
The HELIOS – MSCA Doctoral Network (HELIOS-DN) marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of its first full consortium meeting, held in Hasselt, Belgium. Over four days, participants engaged in intensive training sessions, knowledge exchange, and collaborative discussions, reinforcing the project’s shared vision of advancing hydrogen metallurgy for climate-neutral steel production.
A Dynamic and Collaborative Gathering
Hosted in the historic city of Hasselt, the event brought together all HELIOS beneficiaries, doctoral researchers, and associated partners for the first time since the project’s start. The meeting featured a series of insightful presentations, thematic discussions, and workshops designed to support the scientific and professional development of the HELIOS doctoral candidates.
A key highlight of the programme was a unique leadership training activity involving live horses, offering participants a hands-on and unconventional approach to enhancing team communication and leadership skills.
Industry Engagement and Technical Visits
To strengthen the connection between academic research and industrial application, the consortium visited two of HELIOS’s key industrial partners: Heraeus Electro-Nite and Aperam. These site visits provided valuable insights into real-world challenges and opportunities in the field of sustainable steel production, particularly regarding the integration of hydrogen-based processes in metallurgy.
A Step Forward for Hydrogen in Steelmaking
The event in Hasselt marks an important step forward in building momentum for the HELIOS project. By combining technical training, interdisciplinary dialogue, and industrial collaboration, the meeting served as a catalyst for innovation and boosted the network’s capacity to contribute meaningfully to the European Green Deal objectives.
The HELIOS consortium extends its gratitude to all participants, trainers, and hosts for their dedication and contributions. The team remains committed to pushing the frontiers of sustainable steelmaking through scientific excellence and collaborative action.
