INSIGHT framework bridges PhD-to-industry gap with modular competency pathways

The paper, presented at ISPIM 2026, addresses Europe's critical 'translation gap' where doctoral research often fails to convert into industrial impact. The INSIGHT initiative proposes a multi-methodological analysis using expert interviews and co-design workshops to develop a two-layer competency architecture. The first layer covers foundational translational skills like communication and project management, while the second layer focuses on Industry 5.0 literacies including data governance and value creation.

Rather than prescribing fixed training tracks, the framework emphasizes modularity, practical relevance, mentoring-rich support, and cross-sector applicability. This design allows early-stage researchers to tailor their development pathways. The authors—Macher, Veledar, Krilašević, and 12 others—position this as a scalable solution for aligning academic training with industry needs in a human-centric, sustainable Industry 5.0 context.