Academic freedom is decreasing in several European countries, according to international research project V-dem. Sweden performs well in their rankings but, when it comes to institutional freedom, we are one of the worst in Europe.
Sweden is at the forefront of gender equality. But equality in the proportion of female professors remains a long way off. Sociologist Liisa Husu wonders why Sweden has done so well in so many other areas but not in academia.
To understand our society, we must consider the role of science and technology in our daily lives. So says Massimiano Bucchi, professor of sociology at Italy’s University of Trento. He studies scientific communication from a sociological perspective and emphasises the importance of diversity.
Researchers in Sweden applying for ERC funds are granted less funding than applicants from other countries, according to a report by the Swedish Research Council, which is now proposing a range of measures to increase Sweden’s allocation of grants.
Why a chief scientific adviser? To supply evidence for the government, create understanding between researchers and politicians, and act as a sounding board in discussions of research policy.
Anders Sahlman’s stand-up comedy has a unique angle – he jokes about research and research communication.
Becoming a docent is an important step in an academic career, but the path to achieving it can vary significantly depending on the university – it may require publications equivalent to 1, 2 or 3 theses.
The internet is home to a new and unusual combination of art and research: ERC Comics. Funded by the European Research Council, the idea is to make research accessible to a new audience.
An independent agency to investigate and rule on suspected misconduct, the option to appeal, and a legal definition of the concept of research misconduct: these are some of the proposals contained in the report of the misconduct enquiry.
When new funds for research and education are allocated, interaction must also be factored in. The autumn’s budget bill will suggest how this could be done, although the proposal has been met with criticism.