Rene Tõnnisson works as a member of executive board at IBS and is responsible for coordination and development of international cooperation activities. During recent years he has been holding executive positions also in Tartu Science Park, Tartu Biotechnology Park, Baltic Innovation Agency and Connect Estonia. He is also currently member of European Cluster Policy Group (ECPG) and External Advisory Group (EAG) Regional Aspects for FP7. His main research areas are related to innovation and knowledge management, technology transfer, cluster development and foresight. Since 1996 he has taught various courses on EU policies and institutions at University of Tartu.