University platforms are defined as strategically important research infrastructures that are to strengthen the University’s excellence in research. They are characterised by having a high level of accessibility and many users from all faculties as well as other higher education institutions and organisations.

With this initiative for large research infrastructures, we have also chosen to double the funding of research infrastructures. Up to now, the University has allocated SEK 20 million in an annual call for applications. However, as part of this restructuring, the Vice-Chancellor has chosen to double the total investment to SEK 40 million. Half of this sum will be used for long-term investments in university platforms and half will continue to be allocated through the traditional calls for applications.

On 31 January, we had received 11 nominations for university platforms, of which nine were selected for assessment by the external review group, which will submit their recommendations after the summer.

In parallel with this procedure, the Working Group for Research Infrastructure will begin to review the 31 applications received for grants to fund the traditional local research infrastructure. We have received applications from all the faculties regarding this. These will be processed internally in dialogue with the faculties and a decision will be taken by the Vice-Chancellor in the early autumn. 

/ Viktor Öwall, pro vice-chancellor