International collaboration takes place every day
Internationalisation is not something that happens alongside our core activities – it is a natural part of them. Science is fundamentally international, and scientific progress depends on collaborations across subject boundaries and disciplines around the world. Internationalisation is therefore an integrated part of our researchers’ everyday work.
At the same time, more strategic efforts are underway to further strengthen the University’s international impact. This involves both increasing the international visibility of our research and education and strengthening our attractiveness to students, researchers, collaborators and external funding bodies. Strong research environments, international collaborations and active communication all play an important role in this work. A clear example of what a strategic and coordinated approach can achieve is the University’s strong position in sustainability.
Internationally leading in sustainability
Lund University’s top position in the QS Sustainability Ranking reflects broad and long-term efforts across many parts of the University. The Faculty’s work in sustainability is an important part of this, not least through the Sustainability Forum. Another step in further strengthening this area is the establishment of the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences (MGeo). The department now brings together research in climate, environment and geoscience under one roof, creating new opportunities for research, education and collaboration connected to sustainability.
Visibility in global media
A recently conducted international media analysis by Verian Group shows that the Faculty of Science contributes significantly to Lund University’s international visibility. In recent years, research from the Faculty has received global attention through studies on moth navigation using stars and magnetic fields, research on the unexpected evolution of wall lizards, and work on the evolution of the eye throughout history. These are just a few examples of how fundamental scientific questions, answered through high-quality research, can generate international media impact.
Visiting professors and international students strengthen our networks
Our international presence is also reflected in the visiting professors we have welcomed to the Faculty. They contribute new perspectives, strengthen our international networks and create opportunities for deeper collaborations with leading researchers and universities around the world. In the long term, we hope that the investment in visiting professors will lead to new research directions and projects that can also enrich our students and teaching.
Internationalisation also permeates the Faculty’s educational programmes. We operate in an international study environment and attract students from many parts of the world. Last year, we welcomed hundreds of international and exchange students to the Faculty. This is also why the majority of our Master’s programmes and several Bachelor’s programmes are taught in English.
As mentioned, internationalisation is a natural part of our activities and something that takes place every day. By continuing to develop our international collaborations and networks, we strengthen both our research and education – while also contributing to Lund University’s international impact.
Per Persson, Dean
