The importance of SRIA in the evolution of communication networks: An interview with François Baccelli
| François Baccelli, research director INRIA Emeritus Professor at Télécom Paris PC 9 FOUND of PEPR director françois.baccelli@inria.fr |
The strategic research and innovation agenda of Networld Europe plays a key role in defining research priorities for the development of 6G and future communication networks in Europe. To better understand its importance and how it works, we met François Baccelli, research director at INRIA and emeritus professor at Telecom Paris, who actively participates in this process.
What is SRIA and what is its main objective?
The SRIA is a strategic roadmap document that outlines the priority research and innovation areas in the field of communication networks in Europe. It particularly emphasizes the development of 6G and intelligent networks. Its objective is to define a common roadmap for all stakeholders in the sector, including industry, universities and innovative SMEs.
What role does Networld Europe play in this process?
Networld Europe is the entity that brings together the key European players in communication systems. It replaces NetWorld2020 and aligns with Horizon Europe policies. Its goal is to structure research and innovation around communication networks and services, facilitating interactions between researchers, industry leaders and academic institutions. Networld Europe validates and publishes the SRIA with the contributions from nearly 200 experts from about a hundred institutions.
How does SRIA influence European programs?
The SRIA directly feeds the European research program of the Smart Networks and Service Joint Undertaking (SNS JU). This program is essential for the development of the 6G technology and European sovereignty in this field. By structuring technological priorities, the SRIA contributes to the shaping of European project calls and can influence other European initiatives related to ICT.
How is the SRIA document structured?
The SRIA is divided into two main parts:
- The white paper, which provides a strategic vision and a technological roadmap specifying the expected technological advancements.
- The technical annex, which delves deeper into the analysis of essential technologies for the future of communication networks and services.
What is your background, and how did you become involved in SRIA?
I was invited to speak at the SRIA Summit in Lisbon in November 2023, where I presented my work on managing the complexity of 6G. Following this presentation, I wrote a contribution that was included in the RAN chapter of the SRIA 2024 document. Additionally, as a member of the SNS INSTINCT project, I collaborated with Phillippe Martins (Telecom Paris) on the NTN (non-terrestrial networks) chapter of the SRIA, focusing on networks based on satellite constellations in low Earth orbit.
Who can contribute to the SRIA, and how can one participate?
The SRIA invites participation from academic researchers specializing in next-generation communication networks. To contribute, it is essential to be an active researcher with work aligned with the overall strategy of European project calls.
The participation of French academic researchers in the SNS program needs to be strengthened. Increasing this involvement is crucial for French research in order to play a greater role in shaping the European communication network strategy.
What is the impact of the PEPR, and how does it relate to the SRIA?
The PEPR plays a similar role on a national scale in France. It aims to identity and support strategic areas much like the European Commission does with the SRIA and SNS JU. In conclusion, participating in the SRIA is a unique opportunity for researchers to contribute to the European ICT strategy and, in turn, enhance the involvement of French academics in developing the networks of the future.
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