Investment in major external research projects

In recent years, the university’s researchers have achieved exceptionally strong growth in externally funded research. The increase is, in percentage terms, record-breaking compared with previous years. The university management now wishes both to acknowledge this work and to create favourable conditions for the development to continue. Considering changing financial circumstances, with reduced funding for education, further strengthening of research activities is particularly important.

The purpose of this strategic initiative is to create, during 2026, scope for more initiatives that bring together expertise across academic boundaries and give ideas greater impact – nationally as well as internationally.

Creating time for writing applications

In practical terms, this involves using the Vice-Chancellor’s strategic funds to free up time for writing research applications for projects exceeding SEK 30 million.

“The initiative is based on the ambition to think bigger, work in a more coordinated way, and develop long-term collaborations that contribute to the university’s continued development, profiling, and societal relevance,” said Vice-Chancellor Mats Tinnsten.

All the university’s research environments are included in this opportunity, and collaboration between the university’s departments is encouraged.

The initiative aligns with the university’s goal of Distinctiveness and societal relevance, as well as the strategies Together and collaboratively, and Excellent environments.

Read more about the university’s vision, goals, and strategies.