With good neighbours – for the benefit of society

Materials research at LTH, the Faculty of Engineering, has a unique breadth. Our researchers analyse and enhance materials such as concrete, ceramics and plastic. They develop new materials that can be biocompatible, energy-efficient, electroactive or adapted to extreme environments. Here at LTH, there are also researchers who look into the inner depths of pharmaceuticals and living matter. 

Now, research at LTH, and thereby also education, is to get a boost from its good neighbours. 

It is no exaggeration to say that ESS and Max IV – where researchers from different universities, institutes and companies can look into the interior of atoms – change Skåne, Sweden and the world. Thousands of researchers and students will move to Lund and the leading-edge facilities to participate in an environment characterised by curiosity and the determination to meet different societal challenges. This is a chance to improve quality of life for many people, in many different ways! 

Between ESS and Max IV, Science Village Scandinavia is taking shape, a place that will be a shop window to the world in matters of research, development and innovation. If Lund is to succeed with what other major research facilities have found difficult – to engage the public, attract knowledge tourism and be a part of the city where meetings take place – many actors must put their shoulders to the wheel. 

Regarding the visionary projects Max IV and ESS, one plus one can be more than two. With our combined strength, we can accomplish something terrific, and it is not just engineers and scientists who have opportunities and reason to dream. As I have written previously, the prophets of woe are not to distract us from our path – I believe we will see a phoenix rise from the soil of Brunnshög. 

I would like to see that we overcome practical obstacles within the University and bring the students with us in the move to the Brunnshög area in north-east Lund. After all, it is not that far away! 

I also want us to receive the support that is required in order to seize the opportunities that Max IV and ESS offer. The Government indicated this most recently in the budget bill for 2020, which states that the facilities in Lund “represent a unique opportunity to establish a world-leading research centre focusing on life sciences and materials research.” It is time to turn words into action! 

It is starting to be a matter of urgency for those of us who want to help and rally round investigations, experiences and explosions of knowledge – for the benefit of the world. I hope that you want to join us on the journey!

Viktor Öwall 

Dean of LTH