Thor Balkhed
The roadmap embodies the plans for increased engagement in Europe, which is part of the University’s long-term strategy. The overall objective of the roadmap is to position Linköping University as a transformative European university. It means actively developing the education, research and collaboration of the future, thereby contributing in a meaningful way to a more competitive, sustainable and resilient Europe.
“With Roadmap Europe, we are seeking to create better conditions for our students, teachers and researchers to participate in international collaborations and benefit from Europe’s collective expertise. It’s an investment in the future for the university as well as the region,” says Vice-Chancellor Jan-Ingvar Jönsson.
The aim is, by 2030, to make LiU a leading European university regularly contributing to the EU’s continued development, to double the annual funding from the EU and to take further steps towards European education programmes.
“When Europe’s future is shaped in Brussels, we need to be there. Visibility and commitment are crucial to influencing policy, safeguarding academic freedom and ensuring that research and education contribute to a sustainable and competitive Europe,” says Jan Axelsson, Vice-Chancellor’s adviser, responsible for collaboration and European issues.
Focus on education
Building stronger links with other European higher education institutions, including through ECIU (the European university alliance LiU is part of) will increase Linköping University students’ opportunities for exchange studies, joint education programmes and access to new perspectives within their subject areas. Roadmap Europe makes it possible to develop programmes that are more competitive, relevant and attractive, while at the same time making it easier for students to create international networks while still at university. In addition to a Swedish degree from LiU, ECIU collaboration opens up for European qualifications.
Objective: Attracting top international talent by becoming a visible hub for European cooperation and a desirable study and´career destination.
Focus on research
Joining European research partnerships means not only access to joint research programmes and funding opportunities, but also greater impact for research results. Linköping University sees that international partnerships lead to increased quality and innovation, and Roadmap Europe is expected to contribute to the university becoming an even stronger player in the European research arena.
Objective: Increasing competitive EU funding, aiming to double the annual EU research income by 2030.
Focus on collaboration
Working with European companies, public agencies and organisations opens up new opportunities for collaboration in education, work placement, research and community development. By actively participating in European projects, the university can participate in influencing future policies and contribute to solutions to societal challenges, in Sweden as well as in Europe.
Objective: Connecting regional strengths with wider European networks and markets, leveraging EU programmes for regional innovation and SME collaboration.
A foothold in Europe
Linköping University’s newly established office in Brussels is a tangible and important step in the university’s getting closer to the EU. The office serves as a link between the LiU and the EU institutions, enables faster exchange of information and creates new contact points for researchers and administrative staff.
“We aim to be a driving force in Europe. With our strong foundation in interdisciplinary research, innovative education, innovation and regional engagement, LiU is uniquely positioned to contribute to Europe’s green and digital transitions, societal resilience and competitiveness,” says Vice-Chancellor Jan-Ingvar Jönsson.
