SDU launches major strategic initiative: DKK 100 million for cutting-edge research in critical technologies

The University of Southern Denmark is now undertaking a significant strategic prioritisation of the university’s research. With a total investment of DKK 100 million over four years, SDU will support and further develop two already strong research environments within quantum technology and autonomous systems.

These areas have been selected because they combine excellent research, strong international standing and significant potential to deliver value to society through new knowledge, technological solutions and highly specialised expertise.

The initiative is intended to give the environments even better opportunities to attract and retain researchers at the highest international level, strengthen academic capacity, increase the acquisition of external research funding and enter into strategic collaborations with businesses, public authorities and international partners.

According to Rector Jens Ringsmose, the initiative reflects SDU’s commitment to investing in areas where the university already has excellent research environments and unique potential to create value for society.

-SDU is a university that delivers value to society. In uncertain times, there is a need for research that is both of high international quality and focused on areas where new technologies can have a decisive impact. With this initiative, we are prioritising two research areas where SDU is particularly well-placed to make an international impact and contribute solutions that society needs, says Rector Jens Ringsmose.

Critical technologies with societal significance

The two research areas have been selected based on a comprehensive assessment of SDU’s existing research strengths, international quality and the potential to create further societal impact. In the field of quantum technology, the initiative builds on the Centre for Quantum Mathematics, which already has a strong national and international position in quantum algorithms, quantum software and quantum communication.

Quantum technology is expected to have an impact on areas such as secure communication, advanced computing, energy and infrastructure systems, healthcare, industry and defence.

In the field of autonomous systems, the initiative builds on SDU’s long-standing position of strength in robotics, drones, software, artificial intelligence and cyber-physical systems. The ambition here is to strengthen the development of the next generation of autonomous systems that can operate safely and independently in complex and unpredictable environments.

Autonomous systems are expected to become increasingly important in areas such as manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, construction, emergency response, critical infrastructure, the green transition and labour shortages.

A clear strategic choice

Chairman of the Board Søren Vilby emphasises that the investment in cutting-edge research reflects a focused and long-term priority in line with the university’s strategy.

-An investment of DKK 100 million is a significant strategic choice. SDU does not need to be the best at everything, but we must dare to prioritise the areas where the university has particular strengths for producing excellent research with international impact and clear value for society. That is precisely the aim of this spearhead initiative, says Chair of the Board Søren Vilby.

Over the next four years, the initiative is intended to give research environments better opportunities to attract top international researchers, develop new research breakthroughs and forge stronger links with businesses, foundations, public authorities and international research environments. At the same time, the initiative aims to strengthen SDU’s position in areas where international competition is increasing and where technologies present both significant opportunities and substantial societal responsibilities.

-The role of universities is not merely to generate new knowledge. We must also help ensure that this knowledge is put to use where it can make a difference. Quantum technology and autonomous systems are areas where developments are moving fast, and where strong research environments are crucial for society’s access to knowledge, skills and responsible technological solutions,” says Jens Ringsmose.