Saint-Gobain Research Paris encourages its employees to take initiatives. An exploratory research program allows the funding of research proposed by the researchers themselves. After approval by the scientific management board, the selected projects enjoy all the necessary means.
Every year, 30 or 40 ideas proposed by researchers that could lead to new products or processes are tested.
SGR Paris also contributes to Saint-Gobain's NOVA External Venturing unit by identifying and analyzing innovations from start-ups. Our researchers may then be called upon to monitor the development of collaborations launched with start-ups as part of co-developments.
"I see the Phi-zero -an exploratory research program- as a necessary tool for realizing proofs of concept, before presenting our innovation proposals to Saint-Gobain’s subsidiaries. I intend using this to assess the feasibility of an idea, as well as its pertinence."