27 November 2024

Linköping University shows its strength in research by being highlighted in Vinnova’s latest report on strategic technology areas for Sweden. LiU is seen as a leader in three areas.

Photographer: Thor Balkhed

Swedish innovation agency Vinnova’s report, which was submitted to the Government Offices in October, identifies and proposes technologies that are crucial for Sweden’s future competitiveness and sustainability.
“The report consolidates our position as a leading university with cutting-edge research in strategically important technology areas. It’s nice to read that we contribute to Sweden’s competitiveness and sustainable development,” comments Deputy Vice-Chancellor Per-Olof Brehmer, who is responsible for collaboration.

LiU is highlighted in three of the ten technology areas crucial for the EU:


Advanced semiconductor technology: Europe faces a great need to reduce its dependence on semiconductor imports from North America and Asia. LiU is one of the most prominent players in material, process technology and components, together with other Swedish universities and research institutes.

Artificial intelligence (AI): Despite the lack of large research environments in computer science using AI to any great extent, Sweden has strengthened its position in recent years. LiU is ranked 43rd globally and 12th in Europe in AI research, which shows the university’s prominent role in this rapidly growing field.

Robotics and autonomous systems: Research on drones at LiU is internationally competitive and has great potential for broad use in defence, agriculture and forestry, healthcare, logistics and environmental monitoring. Sweden’s large area in relation to its population means that the country has much to gain from being at the forefront of the development of drone technology.

Read the report on the Vinnova website

 

Translated by Simon Phillips 

Josefina Syssner – Professor visiting academia

In her teens, Josefina Syssner wanted to be a cartoonist. She had no intention of studying at university. A few decades later, she is a professor  with a specific eye on the parts of Sweden that are losing population year after year.

How the nervous system distinguishes social touch

Two types of neurons in the skin may be particularly important for how the brain interprets social contact between people. Knowledge of how the nervous system processes social touch is important in order to develop ways to restore sensation.

Researcher in lab coat holds blue solar cell with tweezers.

How non-toxic and efficient solar cells can be produced

Large-scale production of organic solar cells with high efficiency and minimal environmental impact. This can now be made possible through a new design principle developed at Linköping University.