Following the UIC Academic Board for Innovation (ABI) being launched, our work is now moving from concept development to programme delivery, with the Board's inaugural Steering Committee meeting held on 27 July 2026 to agree priorities and establish a work programme (WP) for the next two years.
Operating under the International Railway Research Board (IRRB), the ABI provides independent scientific advice and support to UIC research and innovation activities, focusing on creating practical opportunities for partnerships, knowledge sharing, and community building.
As the central coordination point within UIC’s collaborative framework, the ABI links universities, research institutes, and training centres with UIC members and industry innovators – including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups. Moving forward, the ABI will also establish a global observatory to track emerging trends, key indicators of change, new technologies, and the latest understanding in this field. In addition, it will function as a specialised railway think-tank to support UIC Regional Competence Hubs (RCHs) upon request.
A key outcome of the Steering Committee meeting was the agreement of an ambitious 2026–2028 work programme, to be implemented through a range of different taskforces. These initiatives are designed to strengthen links between industry and academic institutions, support emerging railway researchers, and enhance international cooperation on railway innovation.
Among the first priorities is the development of a Code of Good Practice for Academia-UIC Collaboration to establish common principles for effective cooperation. The Steering Committee also agreed to map existing railway research and innovation networks worldwide to identify opportunities for collaboration and avoid work being duplicated.
The ABI is also launching a new Doctoral Network to support PhD students and early-career researchers, complemented by an international seminar series (4–6 themed events per year) to showcase emerging research and prepare the next generation of leaders.
Recognising the importance of practical engagement, the ABI is developing a pilot internship programme in partnership with UIC members, offering researchers direct experience with real-world railway challenges.
Membership is free and open to all UIC members and official partners (ABI members), academic institutions, research organisations, promoters of innovation, individual innovators, and independent scientists. Partners interested in joining, contributing to activities, hosting interns, or participating in research seminars can get involved at: https://uic.org/research-and-innovation/international-railway-research-board-irrb/.
Figure 1: Picture credited by Gemini AI, updated by UIC
