Rector Brian Bech Nielsen’s statement on the new political agreements on research and innovation 2026-29
In this statement, Rector Brian Bech Nielsen outlines the positive elements in the new political agreements on research and innovation and explains how AU can draw on its comprehensive disciplinary reach to make a major contribution.
There are a number of reasons to be pleased with the agreement on the allocation of the national research reserve that has just been reached. It’s good news that the timeframe for the allocation of funding has been extended. What’s more, the final agreement retains the positive measures put forth in the government’s initial proposal, including the continuation of last year year’s 500-million kroner increase in basic funding to the universities in addition to an infusion of new flexible funding to boost the universities’ innovation capacity. This significant increase in basic funding will improve research and innovation at all five faculties in the years to come.
At Aarhus University, we also have strengths in the strategic focus areas to which funding has been earmarked under the new agreements. The focus areas are:
- Denmark's security
- Responsibility for the green transition
- Health and life sciences as a Danish strength
We will make a substantial contribution in all these areas; in particular, I have noted that cybersecurity is a major emphasis in the final agreement. This is a crucial focus or Denmark which also plays a prominent role in Aarhus University’s strategy towards 2030. Among other important focus areas named in the agreement are biotechnology and biosolutions; artificial intelligence and quantum technology; and a new national centre for women’s health research.
Not all disciplines at AU will be able to see themselves contributing directly to the focus areas prioritised in the agreements. The benefit to the social sciences and humanities in particular will primarily take the form of the additional flexible funding I referred to above. But nonetheless, we must attempt to mobilise our full range of expertise. Because human insight and the economic and regulatory aspects are also necessary to successful technological development. We are a comprehensive university, and that’s the source of our strength.
I’d like to conclude with a final piece of good news: the Centre for Grundtvig Research received a grant – this time for a four-year period – that will enable them to continue their important work.
- Read the agreements on research and innovation 2026-2029 (in Danish)
- Read the press release from Universities Denmark, in which Brian Bech Nielsen comments on the agreements in his capacity as chair of Universities Denmark (in Danish)