The Norwegian Research Council’s national evaluation of medicine and health research (EVALMEDHELSE) is now being followed up with targeted investments in research schools and national networks. Among the 19 research networks that have been granted up to NOK 2 million each is the “Network on Responsive Biomaterials”, where our Department plays a central role.
NTNU (Berit Løkengaard Strand) coordinates the network and brings together partners from, among others, SINTEF, us, and Chemistry at the University of Oslo. Håvard and Hanna have contributed to the application and now lead UiO activities in this collaboration. The funding will be used to strengthen national and international collaboration on smart, “responsive” biomaterials – materials that can adapt to biological signals, mechanical loading, or environmental changes, thereby improving the integration, durability, and safety of medical devices and implants.
The initiative follows recommendations from the recent Research Council evaluations, which pointed to a need for more strategic collaboration across institutions and sectors, and for renewal of scientific fields in response to emerging research challenges. Through workshops, joint seminars, researcher exchanges, and coordinated supervision of early-career researchers, the Network on Responsive Biomaterials will contribute to exactly this type of capacity building and internationalisation.
Seed funding for a new master’s programme in biocompatibility
In addition to the network funding, Athina Samara at the Department of Biomaterials has received seed funding from UiO:Life Science to develop a new master’s programme in biocompatibility. The programme will focus on how materials interact with biological systems – from molecular mechanisms at the cell surface to clinical performance in patients – and will be closely linked to ongoing research in biomaterials, toxicology, immunology, and regulatory science.
The seed funding will support curriculum development, pilot teaching activities, and collaboration with other UiO environments and external partners. The aim is to offer students a truly interdisciplinary training that prepares them for careers in academia, industry, health services and regulatory bodies.
New possibilities
Together, the responsive biomaterials network and the new biocompatibility initiative strengthen UiO’s position in life science and health-related materials research, and directly respond to the Research Council’s call for more collaboration, innovation and high-quality education in strategically important fields.
We congratulate Hanna, Håvard, and Athina Samara on these important recognitions and look forward to the activities and opportunities they will create for our staff and students.