Partnership to develop Uppsala Science District
Uppsala University, Akademiska Hus, Vasakronan, Uppsala Municipality and Region Uppsala have signed a memorandum regarding the development of the Uppsala Science District. The photograph shows Vice-Chancellor Anders Hagfeldt signing the document, with Erik Pelling, Chair of the Municipal Executive Board of Uppsala Municipality, in the background. Photo: Mikael Wallerstedt, Uppsala University
Five Uppsala-based actors have agreed to work together to develop and further strengthen an area of Uppsala that is already a stronghold for life sciences, materials science and IT. The aim is to create a powerhouse for research and innovation that improves the world.
Situated within an area of just under one square kilometre in central Uppsala are Uppsala University Hospital, Rudbeck Laboratory, Uppsala Biomedical Centre, Ångström Laboratory and Uppsala Science Park, home to over 140 companies in the fields of life sciences, materials science and IT. Together with a well-established innovation support system, committed public authorities and several attractive meeting places, this area forms a leading research and innovation hub that is already a driving force for research and development in Uppsala.
Shared platform
The memorandum of understanding between Uppsala University, Akademiska Hus, Vasakronan, Uppsala Municipality and Region Uppsala creates a shared platform for more coordinated and long-term development work. The aim is to further capitalise on the strengths that already exist in the area; create even greater synergies between research, healthcare, innovation and entrepreneurship; and ensure that the urban development taking place in the area unites and further strengthens the area.
“Innovation is a natural by-product of research. We have long had well-functioning systems for nurturing ideas and supporting entrepreneurs, and over the years we have helped over 400 projects on their journey to becoming businesses. This initiative will further elevate the area and benefit the entire University. I hope that innovations across all the University’s faculties will flourish in Uppsala Science District,” says Vice-Chancellor Anders Hagfeldt.
The shared vision is for Uppsala Science District to become a powerhouse for research and innovation that improves the world. The aim is to create an area with a clear international profile, characterised by excellence, synergy, curiosity and a high quality of life.
Four key areas
Efforts are concentrated on four key areas. These involve building a clearer shared identity and international visibility; developing the area’s offering for research, innovation and entrepreneurship; creating a physical environment that facilitates collaboration and expansion; and strengthening the qualities that make the area an attractive place to live and work.
Several major investments and development projects are already underway in and around the area. The development of the Uppsala tramway is an urban development initiative that significantly strengthens the area and, coupled with the four-track expansion, considerably improves and shortens journey times to and from Arlanda/Stockholm – a key factor in increasing international appeal. The long-term development and renewal of the university hospital will also have a decisive impact on the area’s attractiveness.
“Uppsala brings together world-class research, healthcare and entrepreneurship in a single area. With Uppsala Science District, we are linking these strengths and creating better conditions for ideas to become innovations, new businesses and more jobs. This strengthens both Uppsala’s development and our international competitiveness,” says Erik Pelling (Social Democratic Party), Chair of the Municipal Executive Board of Uppsala Municipality.
Linda Koffmar