New research strategies for future challenges

“Our research provides new perspectives on fundamental scientific issues and knowledge that contributes to solving the challenges facing society. As a broad university with a complete academic environment we have a great opportunity and an important responsibility to both further develop our cutting-edge research and establish entirely new, cross-disciplinary research fields”, says Vice-Chancellor Eva Åkesson.

The document provides a picture of the current situation, while also looking ahead. Fundamental prerequisites and success factors for a positive development are established, current research areas of strength are described and themes for new initiatives are identified.

Prerequisites mentioned as important for a stable, positive development are a continued focus on quality, generous access to research infrastructure, international cooperation and a working environment which is attractive and inspiring.

As well as several already strong research areas, a number of themes are identified which the University wants to prioritise for broad initiatives in the coming years. These are based on internationally leading research at the University and will be developed in collaboration with national and international partners from various sectors of society.

• Antibiotic resistance. The key player here is the newly founded Uppsala Antibiotic Centre (UAC), with a focus on cross-disciplinary research.
• Our digital future. Research in analysis and management of large amounts of data and the establishment of digital humanities as a new research field.
• The new world of work. We need a lot of knowledge about the modern world of work with its new demands and challenges.
• eHealth. Continued development of methods for transferring clinical data from the patient at home to health care providers, and of software for diagnostics and treatment.
• Medical technology. Continuing to build upon research discoveries together with Uppsala University Hospital, for example to develop non-invasive surgery, life support systems, apps and image processing.
• Migration, integration and racism. Here the University continues to build upon already established areas of strength in research.
• Precision medicine. Preventive care and treatment based on the needs and situation of the individual.
• Mental health. Uppsala University and Uppsala University Hospital have together created a structure in which all young adults seeking care are invited to take part in a longitudinal project with the purpose of identifying social and biological causes of mental illness.
• New smart materials. Continued development of collaboration with Sweden’s basic industries to advance innovation capabilities by focusing on the entire chain from natural resources and processes to recycling.

Uppsala University Research Strategies 2016–2020