Photo of Matts Karlsson

Matts Karlsson

Vice-rector for Research

Puts a strong emphasis on the word 'and' in the expression “excellence and benefit”, meaning that it is only when our research meets both these requirements that it can help to solve the major challenges of today.

Vice-rector for research

I am working on how LiU's overall strategy (LiU – with the courage to think freely and innovate), together with a new research and innovation strategy, can improve LiU's position. Interdisciplinarity, for example, is something of our trademark, but how can it be developed in the future?

Other important issues include how future infrastructure needs can be met for smarter use of LiU’s resources, the launch of LiU’s profile areas and how to visibly and attractively develop our sustainability perspective.

LiRE25

Much of my work right now relates to the comprehensive evaluation of LiU’s research to be finalised in 2025. Referred to as LiRE25, this evaluation will take place in three steps involving the collection of supporting data, a self-evaluation of strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities for each separate research area, and assessment panels including prominent researchers.

University Management at

News about research at LiU

En kvinna står i snön framför ett batterilager.

The battle for power – who has the right to our electricity?

Wind farms rising like the Eiffel Tower, data centres consuming as much power as entire regions and municipalities feeling like pawns in a global game. The large-scale investments  are creating conflict:  who has priority access to our electricity?

En grupp människor står på ett trädäck.

Molecular medicine research secures long-term funding

The Wallenberg Centre for Molecular Medicine (WCMM) at LiU has been granted extended funding until 2039 by the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation. This makes it possible to build on ten years of success and to recruit new physician-scientists.

Man holding up and inspecting a chair.

From painter to PhD student

Family life came early for PhD student Petter Alsén. Shortly after finishing upper secondary school, he became a father, and he began working as an apprentice painter in the construction industry. Nine years later, he called his boss.

Small containers of chemicals

Research at

What makes LiU special is the lack of boundaries between different subjects and faculties, which has resulted in world-leading research environments and companies. We address issues where the results can benefit all of society.

Vision and strategy

Information about LiU

Publications

2025

Sven Stafström, Matts Karlsson, Emma Rörby, Theresa Apelqvist (Editorship) (2025)
Neil Ingels, Matts Karlsson, Morten Jensen (2025) Medical Research Archives, Vol. 13 (Article in journal)
Belén Casas Garcia, Kajsa Tunedal, Federica Viola, Gunnar Cedersund, Carljohan Carlhäll, Matts Karlsson, Tino Ebbers (2025) Scientific Reports, Vol. 15, Article 1352 (Article in journal)

Organisation