Photo: Nofima
- We are pleased that the University Board has decided to continue the initiative. In the next period, we will continue our efforts to strengthen interdisciplinary research, education and innovation in the life sciences. Our goal is to ensure that UiO's initiative to promote convergence in research and innovation will provide clear added value. In the longer term, the initiative will contribute to securing and strengthening UiO's national and international competitiveness in the life sciences, says UiO:Life Science' Board Chair ?yvind Fylling-Jensen.
The interdisciplinary initiative UiO:Life Science was established in 2015, and is UiO's largest strategic joint venture. UiO:Life Science was established to strengthen quality and collaboration in research; as well as recruiting, educating and developing talents, and promoting innovation in the life sciences for the environment and health. Initially, the investment had a five-year perspective, until 2020. Now the University Board has formally approved an extension of the initiative until 2025.
Since its establishment, 14 convergence environments have been established, and construction of a new research and teaching building has begun. In the planned life sciences building at UiO, extensive interdisciplinary collaboration will help to solve major societal challenges within environment and health. Closer collaboration with health enterprises, local government and business sector will enhance quality and relevance in research and education of tomorrow's workforce. Better exploitation of the innovation potential in research is another goal. The life science building is planned to be completed in 2024.