Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA)

Name: Valborg special: “Feminist Reconfigurings of Alien Encounters", virtual book launch
Start: 2024-04-30T16:15:00
End: 2024-04-30T18:00:00
Location: Zoom

In a complex world, researchers are needed who can both attack a problem deeply and still consider the broader context and collaborate across disciplinary boundaries. This entails generating relevant knowledge using appropriate methods, regardless of subject traditions and background. Analyzing major societal issues from an interdisciplinary perspective is TEMA's specialty.

Innovative from the start

The Department of Thematic Studies (Tema) was established in 1980 and represented a new and untested venture in the Swedish research world. The department's framework revolves around interdisciplinary problem areas, or themes, where researchers collaborate across disciplinary boundaries to collectively address complex challenges. While the foundational structure remains intact, our themes have evolved over time to remain socially relevant. Tema also led the way in Sweden to establish research schools for doctoral students, one for each theme, and this successful model has since become a feature of Swedish graduate training.

Interdisciplinarity is more crucial than ever

In an increasingly complicated world, the interdisciplinary approach is essential to understand and address the major societal issues. At the Department of Thematic Studies, natural science, social science, technology and the humanities meet in the common aim to increase understanding for and find solutions to important future questions. Students at Tema are trained to find alternative questions and transnational perspectives.

The Department of Thematic Studies in numbers

204 staff members

Including 20 professors and 45 doctoral students, 2023.

100+ research collaborations

Formalized agreements with other universities and organizations, 2023.

130 courses

Including sub-courses in programs and single subject courses.

Latest news

The reaction explaining large carbon sinks

A mystery has finally been solved. Researchers from LiU and Helmholtz Munich have discovered that a certain type of chemical reaction can explain why organic matter found in rivers and lakes is so resistant to degradation.

International master’s students meet to discuss children’s issues

On the Master's Programme in Child Studies, students from different parts of the world participate remotely. During an intensive week on campus, they gather to exchange experiences and strengthen their sense of community.

Jonathan Josefsson och Branka Likic-Brboric at the conference GFMD.

The signs that reveal migration policies

Who has access to the meeting rooms? Who leaves when others enter? Who is talking to whom? This may reveal how the winds are blowing in migration policy at an international summit. And researchers from LiU are moving in the crowd to observe.

Calendar

30 April 2024

Valborg special: “Feminist Reconfigurings of Alien Encounters", virtual book launch

4.15 pm – 6.00 pm Zoom

Welcome to the Eco- and Bioart Lab Valborg special - A festive virtual book launch of “Feminist Reconfigurings of Alien Encounters: Ethical Co-Existence in More-than-Human Worlds”, with authors: Prof. Nina Lykke (Linköping University/Aarhus University), Katja Aglert (Konstfack: University of Arts, Crafts and Design), and Dr Line Henriksen (Malmö University). Language is English. Follow the link for more info and to register you participation.

Contacts

Marietta Radomska

8 May 2024

Higher seminar in Technology and Social Change with Catherine Grandclément

1.00 pm – 3.00 pm Lethe, floor 2, entrance 37, campus Valla

Catherine Grandclément, a sociologist working in the R&D department of the French electricity company EdF, is invited as speaker at Technology and Social Change's higher seminar on May 8th. Her research centres around studying the embedded politics of small objects like meters and appliances which act as mediators towards shaping electricity from a public service to consumer good.

Contacts

Eva Danielsson

9 May 2024

Eco and Bioart Lab webinar with Dr Marko Marila

1.15 pm – 3.00 pm Zoom

Welcome to The Eco- and Bioart Lab webinar “From Bedrock to Deadrock: The Arts of Anti-Uranium Activism” with Dr Marko Marila (Linköping University). Respondent: Katja Aglert (Senior Lecturer, Konstfack – University of Arts, Crafts and Design, Stockholm, SE).

Contacts

Marietta Radomska

Higher seminar in Child Studies with Helen Berents

1.15 pm – 3.00 pm Lethe, floor 2, entrance 37, Campus Valla

Dr. Helen Berents will outline the theoretical contribution of her in-progress book manuscript, Peace Expertise. The book asks: Which and whose practices are allowed to be expertise? And if we shift or expand our view, what other practices and knowledges become visible as expertise? To answer these questions, the book develops a notion of a ‘youth-oriented peacebuilding field’ by bringing together Pierre Bourdieu’s work with existing feminist scholarship in International Relations.

Contacts

Eva Danielsson

Research at the Department of Thematic Studies

At the Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA), researchers from different disciplines come together to collectively explore and address some of society's most pressing challenges.

For over 40 years, TEMA has been at the forefront of research spanning wide-ranging problem areas rather than traditional disciplines. By fostering organic interdisciplinary collaborations, TEMA has been instrumental in establishing and shaping new fields of research.

For instance, TEMA's research in environmental change has influenced policy decisions for sustainable development by highlighting the complexity of environmental issues and proposing solutions. In the field of child research, TEMA has contributed to increased awareness and advancements in child policy by emphasising children's perspectives. TEMA's work in gender studies has challenged norms and deepened the understanding of gender and power dynamics, impacting both academia and society. Additionally, through a socio-scientific perspective on technology and science studies, TEMA has contributed to the integration of technology in areas such as education, healthcare, and energy policy.

With its interdisciplinary approach, TEMA continues to be a key player in shaping future research and society.

Themes

Silhouettes of several children in the sunset

Child Studies (TEMAB)

Education and research at Child Studies is about childhood and family with a focus on interaction and language, children's culture and consumption, and childhood over time and space, all to better see the perspectives of children and young people.

People in silhouette in different bright colours

Gender studies (TEMAG)

At Tema Genus, we conduct research, PhD training, undergraduate and master’s education, and social outreach, all with a foundation in interdisciplinary gender studies and often together with international collaborators.

bilden visar stenar i vatten. Pictures shows stones in vater

Environmental Change (TEMAM)

Almost all nature bears traces of human activity. Its condition is strongly linked to social development. This creates a need for scientific breadth and problem-solving skills. Education and research at Environmental Change respond to this challenge.

Bilden visar byggnadsarbetare. The picture shows workers.

Technology and Social Change (TEMAT)

So much of our lives depend on technology. The development and use of technology creates possibilities as well as social, ethical and political dilemmas. That’s what we study at Tema T – Technology and Social Change.

Research centres

Centre for Climate Science and Policy Research, CSPR

CSPR is a platform for knowledge production to trigger and promote societal changes towards safe and just climate futures for all. Our goal is to create knowledge and methodological approaches that can support and advance climate actions.

Centre for Medical Humanities and Bioethics

We gather, strengthen, and develop research, teaching, and collaboration with the society around us, within the areas of medical humanities and bioethics.

Forum for Gender Studies and Equality (Forum)

A meeting place for researchers, teachers, students and others interested in gender studies and gender equality.

PhD Programmes at the Department of Thematic Studies

The PhD programme at the Department of Thematic Studies reflects the inter- and multidisciplinary research profile of the department and more specific the four different research environments.

The main part of the PhD training is organized by the specific research environment, Child Studies, Environmental Studies, Gender Studies, or Technology and Social Change, including supervision. A joint thematic over-arching course is offered once a year. Likewise, the doctoral students have a doctoral council as an arena for matters relating to all, regardless of research environment.

PhD Programme in Child Studies

At Child Studies, we conduct research about children and childhood from a child perspective. As a doctoral student, you become part of an interdisciplinary and vibrant research environment that will support and challenge you in your work.

PhD Programme in Environmental Change

An interdisciplinary research environment with a dialogue across disciplinary boarders and with a strong connection to current societal issues. The PhD Program given at Tema M offers this and much more.

PhD Programme in Gender Studies

Doctoral students receive an education that provides gender analytical skills at a high, international level. The interdisciplinary approach gives opportunities to work with and analyze gender in many different contexts.

Bilden visar två doktorander. Picture shows PhD students

PhD Programme in Technology and Social Change

A broad overview of theories and methods linked to a deep analysis where these are critically examined. The PhD education provides knowledge and skills to understand, investigate and examine the development and use of science and technology.

PhD courses at Department of Thematic Studies

PhD courses at Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA)

The PhD courses at the Department of Thematic Studies reflects the inter- and multidisciplinary research profile of the department and more specific the four different research environments.

Education at the Department of Thematic Studies

Education at the Department of Thematic Studies goes beyond traditional boundaries and embraces interdisciplinary perspectives with high societal relevance.

The Department of Thematic Studies is characterised by a problem-oriented approach and a critical mindset, and our teaching is no exception. Our courses and programs span across all faculties and include subject areas such as urban planning, environmental science, gender studies, childhood studies, geography, and thematic natural sciences.

Research-driven learning

A research-oriented education is at the core of our approach, and our educators are not only dedicated teachers but also active researchers. The teaching encompasses a variety of pedagogical methods, including student-active teaching, problem-based learning (PBL), projects, and challenge-based learning (CBL).

Diversity and flexibility

Our educational programs are rooted in current societal issues, equipping students with specialised expertise that are sought-after in the job market. Our four international master's programs attract students from around the world, creating a dynamic learning environment. In addition to our undergraduate programs, we offer around forty single-subject courses, education within ECIU (European Consortium of Innovative Universities), and courses through LiU Commissioned Education.

At the Department of Thematic Studies, we aim to develop competent professionals while fostering creativity and reflection. These qualities equip our students to face today's and tomorrow's challenges.

Programmes on advanced level/Master

Child Studies, Master's Programme, 120 credits

Students learn to critically scrutinise, analyse and discuss political, cultural and scientific statements and assertions about children and childhood. Prepares you for work in organisations that deal with living conditions for children.

Science for Sustainable Development, Master's Programme, 120 credits

Provides students with knowledge on environmental change and the challenges of creating a sustainable society for a career in research or outside academia. Students learn how to use relevant analytical tools for studies of environmental change.

Gender Studies - Intersectionality and Change, Master's Programme, 120 credits

You learn to challenge norms and structures in education, organisations, media and politics. Focusses in intersectional gender – gender in interplay with other social categorisation such as ethnicity, nationality, sexuality, age, (dis)ability etc.

Strategic Urban and Regional Planning, Master's Programme, 120 credits

Strategic urban and regional planning is one of the most powerful local instruments to (re)shape long-term urban and regional development and create sustainable cities and regions of tomorrow.

Single-subject courses (in English)

Climate Science and Climate Change, 7.5 credits

Are you interested in the history of climate? This course offers an exploration of climate change and its profound impact on our planet, while also examining strategies for shaping a sustainable future.

Photo of people using excalators. Between them an older person is using the staircase.

Critical Perspectives on Planning for Health, 7.5 credits

What is health? How is it distributed among different groups and individuals? And how is urban and regional planning affecting people’s health? In this course you will discuss questions such as these to learn how to critically investigate how urba...

Critical Perspectives on Sustainable Development, 7.5 credits

The course is an introduction to sustainable development as a political idea and an analytical concept, and develops an understanding of the role of science and technology by relating it to environmental issues and social change. Drawing on past a...

Stay updated

Follow the Department of Thematic Studies on LinkedIn

Follow us on LinkedIn to receive news, information about upcoming events and to participate in the dialogue about current research, education and collaboration.

Icons for contact informations. Person, phone, computer and e-mail

Intranet for staff at Tema

On our internal pages you will find information aimed at you who are employed at LiU/Tema.

Collaborate with the Department of Thematic Studies

The Department of Thematic Studies emerged from the idea of developing research closely connected to society. Identifying, analysing, and proposing solutions to relevant societal issues are the very motivations for the department's existence.

Social issues are studied here in a cross-disciplinary manner, from an interdisciplinary perspective. Collaboration thus becomes not only a desirable outcome but the very prerequisite for research and development work at the Department of Thematic Studies.

Contact for collaboration

Norrköping Decision Arena

Norrköping Decision Arena - a room where visualization supports dialogue

The Arena is an interactive facility consisting of visualization platform. It serves as a support in meetings where complex issues are to be discussed. It is used in research and teaching; and can be hired by actors in the private and public sectors.

Contact

Department Management

Head of Department

Deputy Head of Department

Deputy Head of Department

Management support

Head of Administration

HR-partner

Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA)

Innovative from the start

Interdisciplinarity is more crucial than ever

The Department of Thematic Studies in numbers

204 staff members

100+ research collaborations

130 courses

Latest news

The reaction explaining large carbon sinks

International master’s students meet to discuss children’s issues

The signs that reveal migration policies

The astronomer who turned his eyes towards Earth

Post-COVID syndrome made researchers combine different perspectives

The canaries of climate transition

The future of women's health in the limelight during scientific salon

Three proposals from researchers to meet EU climate goals

The temperature is rising ahead of this year’s climate summit

New lab, but still the same

New professor is to explore sex cultures

New network with a focus on women's health

Campaign to strengthen the voice of climate research

Björn-Ola Linnér: I am a frustrated optimist

The quest for sustainable livelihoods in the Amazon

Lennart Nordenfelt appointed honorary doctorate

Guest researchers from Glasgow explored new perspectives

Starting grants for research on child participation and public health

Scientific salon about the consequences of the pandemic

Climate change affects greenhouse gas emissions from stream networks

Risky climate measures studied in new research project

SEK 39 million for graduate school on just climate transition

Climate change and the rise and fall of civilisations

Workshop about loss and damage and the climate negotiations

Calendar

30 April 2024

Contacts

Marietta Radomska

8 May 2024

Contacts

Eva Danielsson

9 May 2024

Contacts

Marietta Radomska

15 May 2024

Contacts

Harald Rohracher

21 May 2024

Contacts

Eva Danielsson

24 May 2024

Contacts

Nancy Brett

13 June 2024

Contacts

Harald Rohracher

27 August 2024

Contacts

Harald Rohracher

Research at the Department of Thematic Studies

Themes

Child Studies (TEMAB)

Gender studies (TEMAG)

Environmental Change (TEMAM)

Technology and Social Change (TEMAT)

Research centres

Centre for Climate Science and Policy Research, CSPR

Centre for Medical Humanities and Bioethics

Forum for Gender Studies and Equality (Forum)

PhD Programmes at the Department of Thematic Studies

PhD Programme in Child Studies

PhD Programme in Environmental Change

PhD Programme in Gender Studies

PhD Programme in Technology and Social Change

PhD courses at Department of Thematic Studies

PhD courses at Department of Thematic Studies (TEMA)

Education at the Department of Thematic Studies

Research-driven learning

Diversity and flexibility

Programmes on advanced level/Master

Child Studies, Master's Programme, 120 credits

Science for Sustainable Development, Master's Programme, 120 credits