The Swedish Research Council (VR) shows in its analysis that Sweden enjoys a strong international standing in the humanities. The analysis has been produced as a supplement to the 2025 Research Barometer and employs an alternative metric to demonstrate citation impact within the field.
Here, Nigel Musk, Head of Research Environment at Language and Culture; Elin Käck, Director of Doctoral Studies for Language and Culture; and Leelo Keevallik, IKOS Deputy Head of Research, comment on the VR analysis. Their reflections concern the full breadth of the humanities, not only linguistics.
“In a Swedish context, LiU stands out with a strong international profile. Within the Language and Culture research environment, we have established extensive international networks, which involve collaboration and co-authorship with colleagues in different parts of the world. This contributes to international impact and enhances the visibility of our results.”
What is LiU’s strength in the humanities?
“The citation analysis highlights strengths in the field of linguistics, but much humanities research at LiU is characterised by interdisciplinarity, for example, interaction studies, philosophy of science, and AI and the humanities. Many of our research areas are built on close collaboration across both departmental and faculty boundaries.”
The diversity among staff within Language and Culture employees is considerable – they come from at least 13 countries across five continents. This also means a broad range of educational and research backgrounds, as well as openness to new ways of thinking.
“The environment has long been open to, and seen the value of, artistic research, both in its own right and as part of collaborations with other disciplines. This openness enables more and new arenas. This year we are running an artistic project with VR-funded workshops on translating experience. The project includes our guest professor in Tage Danielsson’s name, Athena Farrokhzad, Elin Käck, and Sophie Seita, researcher and artist at Goldsmiths in London. Together with others in the environment, they explore translation as an experiential, artistic, literary and academic practice.”
How can you become part of the research environment Language and Culture?
“We warmly welcome guests and new co-workers. You can, for example, take part in the Language and Culture research seminar. We have extensive experience of hosting international guests, whether for short visits or longer stays.”
