Gotland Forum – A Platform for Research and Collaboration at Campus Gotland

Gotland Forum is a meeting place for researchers, societal actors, and residents, where we go beyond traditional boundaries to explore complex societal challenges. In interdisciplinary research projects, with Gotland as a testbed, important issues are examined. By developing research methods, collaboration models, and open dialogue, the Forum contributes to continuous development and learning.

Gotland Forum is a strategic initiative at Uppsala University - Campus Gotland, that strengthens interdisciplinary research and collaboration with local, regional, and international actors. The Forum serves as a hub where university researchers, societal stakeholders, and residents come together to jointly explore complex societal challenges. By bringing together resources and expertise under a common umbrella, opportunities are created for innovative research projects and experimental method development, rooted in Gotland’s unique environment and conditions.

Background

Gotland Forum has emerged from the need to address several central challenges facing Gotland and the region. Gotland’s geographic location, demographic trends, climate change, energy transition, and digitalization create complex societal issues that require interdisciplinary approaches. In addition, there is a need to develop new research methods and to strengthen collaboration between the university and society. Gotland Forum responds to this by uniting research, innovation, and societal benefit in joint projects and initiatives.

Goal and Vision

The goal of Gotland Forum is to develop Campus Gotland into a leading arena for interdisciplinary research. By facilitating new research initiatives, strengthening the capacity of researchers, and offering structured collaboration, Gotland Forum aims to enhance the university’s role in the region and internationally.

Campus Gotland’s interdisciplinary profile and strong connection to sustainability and regional development are also key to attracting new students. A strong research and collaboration climate increases Campus Gotland’s appeal as a place to study, especially for students seeking a close connection between education, research, and societal engagement. In this way, Gotland Forum indirectly contributes to student recruitment by positioning the campus as a dynamic and forward-looking part of Uppsala University.

Areas of Activity

• Collaboration – Developing new forms of collaboration, both within the university and with external actors
• Testbed – Studies in which local challenges are explored on Gotland
• Method Development – Experimental development of new methods for interdisciplinary research

The Forum is also linked to Campus Gotland's four focus areas as well as to:

• The research school GRASS
• Science Park Gotland
• Art residences on Gotland