Scientific research is considered crucial for creating a better future and for a knowledge-based society. In recognition of the role of science in society, technological research and innovation are increasingly expected to target key environmental and economic challenges currently confronting global societies. However, R&D must be in tune with societal values and needs in order to successfully produce and mobilize scientific and technological outcomes. Responsible research and innovation (RRI) envisions an inclusive, interactive, and transparent process designed for ensuring this tuning. It implies that societal actors (researchers, citizens, policy makers, business, third sector organizations) work together in order to anticipate and assess the potential societal implications of research and innovation. Three common pillars of RRI are that science shall be directed towards societally desirable goals, that unintended and intended impacts of research shall be constantly reflected on in research practices, and that one should open up such reflections to public, deliberative processes.

In line with NTNU's institutional slogan "Knowledge for a better world" and NTNU´s broad competence profile and technology focus, we aim to be an internationally visible contributor to the RRI field. Today, NTNU actively pursues RRI approaches in R&D processes, while constantly developing innovative ways of enhancing RRI methods themselves. 'RRI Biotech' actively connects our competences within Ethical, Legal and Societal Aspects (ELSA), Science and Technology Studies and Industrial Ecology.