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The role of RIs beyond scientific impactsConstruction and operation of large-scale cutting-edgeRIs, such as synchrotrons, global observatory networksor powerful lasers, requires huge funding and firm support,both by investors and RI project teams. Therefore,it is critical to carry out an assessment of possible futurereturns before committing to this endeavour. The returnssought are often related to the generation of scientificbreakthroughs, their translation to innovative technologiesand successful market application for economicgrowth and competitive development. The increasingrole of society in policy- and decision-making processesrequires convincing evidence and justification on RIpublic investments beyond their impacts on science,the innovation system and economy. Therefore a widerscope of socio-economic impacts for the hosting regionsand their communities are to be taken into considerationby future RI projects: impacts on demography, educationand employment, local infrastructure and services, qualityof life, regional development and environment.In addition to the categories above, RI socio-economicimpacts can be further characterized as short-termed ordelayed in time, direct or induced, desired or unexpected,easy to monitor or “below the radar”.The opportunity for shaping the future and creating desiredsocio-economic (SE) impacts on the hosting regionsand communities, as well as on Europe as a whole, canmake fundamental differences if used sensitively in accordancewith strategic principles. An open view for thedifferent possible impacts may lead to better decisionsand mobilisation of resources for building large-scale RIs.S+T:Science, Technology & InnovationJOBS:Work & PopulationLIFE:Quality of LifeLIFE:Quality of LifeRI Socio-Economic Impacts: Some Examples••••••••••••••••••••••••New services and opportunities for users and customersNew knowledge and skills (scientific papers)New methods, techniques, and applicationsMutual learning, knowledge exchange, spill oversIntellectual Property RightsNew instruments and productsJoint R&D projects with industryNew science and innovation networksOpportunities for spin-offs and start-upsNew directly and indirectly created jobsIncreased economic activity by RI expenditureTraining and skill development (scientists, general staff)Research training for studentsCareer opportunities and Life Long LearningSupport of gender balanceHighly-skilled workers for the labour marketCritical mass and synergy effects with other facilitiesRI shaping cultural life and lifestylesIncreased cultural diversity affecting attitudes and behavioursBetter socio-cultural skills and language skillsNew medical instruments, diagnostics, treatmentsImproved community services (health care, education...)More public awareness of benefits from scienceIncreased social cohesion•••New ecological knowledge, technologies, standards andcontrols leading to improved sustainabilityBetter services for energy, water, materials and wasteImpacts on biodiversity of local habitats20