Jacques Bersier

Jacques Bersier is a Honorary Professor at the School of Engineering and Architecture of Fribourg (HEIA-FR), part of the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland (HES-SO). He has extensive expertise in Innovation Management, Smart Specialization Strategies, and Cluster Development, focusing on cross-regional collaboration in the Alpine Space. His work emphasizes transforming economic structures through innovative value chains and policy frameworks.

Research Interests: Bersier’s research spans circular bioeconomy transitions, macro-regional innovation strategies, and the integration of clusters into Smart Specialization Strategies (S3). He has pioneered methodologies for identifying transformative activities and fostering cross-border R&D collaboration. His work bridges academia, industry, and policy, addressing challenges in SME innovation and sustainable development.

Key Projects: Co-leads ARDIA-Net (2019–2022), developing Alpine R&D frameworks for biohealth and circular economy. Principal investigator of AlpLinkBioEco (2018–2021), creating cross-regional bio-based value chains. Previously led S3-4AlpClusters (2016–2019), establishing an innovation model for cluster-driven S3 implementation.

Awards & Roles: Received the European Academic Software Award (EASA 2004) for the FET project. Served on EUR-ACE® accreditation committee, CTI expert panel, and EUSALP Action Group 2. Authored textbooks on mechanics, finite element analysis, and IDEF methodologies.

Teaching & Legacy: Taught mechanical engineering, finite element analysis, and CAD for over 30 years. Developed pedagogical tools like the FET course and interactive learning models. His contributions blend technical expertise with policy-driven innovation systems.