K2 recently hosted its annual retreat on Tuesday, April 30th. In a departure from tradition, this year’s gathering took place at UiB’s newly renovated premises on Nygårdsgaten 5, rather than the usual Solstrand location, prompted by the institute’s current financial situation.

The retreat proved to be highly informative, offering valuable insights for all participants. After a warm welcome from outgoing head of department Pål Njølstad, we delved into the “healthy economy” project, presented by Dean Per Bakke. While K2’s financial health currently faces challenges, there’s optimism for improvement in the near future. On the bright side, K2 continues to excel in research, benefiting from a robust influx of external funding. Importantly, no staff members will face termination. However, the deficit and hiring freeze pose challenges, particularly affecting administrative roles. As of June, the administration team will operate with only 1.5 positions, necessitating teamwork and creativity. Boundaries between subject areas are fluid, and PhD students’ responsibilities extend beyond teaching to include administrative tasks. Stepping out of comfort zones will be essential.

In the pursuit of creativity, artificial intelligence (AI) emerges as a powerful tool. Robert Hetlelid, from the IT department, provided an insightful overview of UiB-chat and Copilot—tools exclusively available to UiB employees. These tools surpass Chat-GPT in functionality, prompting me to cancel my Chat-GPT subscription in favor of Copilot. For Helse Bergen PC users, remember to log in to Edge using your UiB account.

Perhaps consider leveraging Copilot for crafting better applications? Research advisor Susanna Pakkasmaa highlighted various application possibilities during the retreat. While K2 performs well, there’s room for improvement, especially in securing EU funding. Success stories further motivated us: Research student Jonas Hodneland Sundfjord shared insights from longitudinal GWAS analyses on the Mother-Child cohort, while Professor Simona Chera outlined the KG Jebsen Center for Myeloid Blood Cancer’s mission. Chemicals play a crucial role in research, and proper disposal is essential. Consult with Bente-Lise P. Lillebø, senior adviser at the Occupational Health Service, to navigate chemical handling—an area where UiB has a good agreement with BIR.

The retreat concluded with an update from Professor Simon Dankel on Vestlandslegen, followed by anniversary celebrations. Notably, Pål Njølstad received an AI-generated artwork crafted by researcher Marc Vaudel as a token of appreciation.

For those who missed out, fear not—next year promises a fresh retreat. Perhaps our collective success will allow us to reconvene at Solstrand?

Wishing you a wonderful weekend,

Eystein Husebye
Acting Head of Department

As my time as the Head of K2 comes to an end, I feel both nostalgia and gratitude. These past six years have been a whirlwind of challenges, triumphs, and camaraderie – a journey that has left deep marks on our department.

A Pattern of Outstanding Achievements

Our department is like a vibrant pattern woven from various disciplines. From medical education to pharmacy and nutrition, we have nurtured the minds of countless students, shaped their futures, and instilled in them a high standard of quality. Our professors and associate professors – 52 steadfast individuals in permanent positions and 79 dedicated souls in part-time roles – form the threads of this network, enabling us to provide our students with education that will carry them safely into their professional lives.

The unsung heroes

But let us not forget the less visible heroes – the 171 doctoral and postdoctoral researchers who tirelessly work in the laboratories, unravel mysteries, and push the boundaries of knowledge. Their passion drives our research, and their curiosity propels us forward. To them, I extend my deepest gratitude.

Groundbreaking Discoveries

Our journey has been marked by milestones. We have stood on local podiums, received well-deserved awards, and national and international recognition has affirmed our collective efforts. We have contributed to groundbreaking discoveries why our research graces the pages of prestigious international journals, including the Nature family.

The magic of translation

Our research is more than data points – it is a bridge between the laboratory and the hospital bed. Always keeping the patient in mind, we work toward solutions that matter. And it is this delicate balance between science and practice, between molecules and medicine, that ultimately turns hypotheses into hope – into improved diagnostics and treatment for our patients.

Facing the storms

Yes, there have been storms. The COVID-19 pandemic and economic challenges have tested our resilience. But like seasoned sailors, we have adjusted our sails and navigated through turbulent waters. And amidst it all, the spirit of K2 remains unwavering – a beacon of collaboration.

Gratitude prevails

Today, as I stand at the threshold of a new chapter, my heart is filled primarily with gratitude. To the technicians fine-tuning our instruments, the young researchers dreaming big, and the professors sparking curiosity. And let us not forget the unsung heroes – the administrative warriors who keep our ship afloat. Their precise work may go unnoticed, but it is always deeply appreciated. Thanks a lot.

Farewell

As I pen my final editorial comment, I raise a virtual glass to each one of you. Our institute is not just about science; it is about people – the beating hearts that breathe life into the walls of K2’s many rooms. My hope is that K2 continues to flourish, bringing joy to new generations.

A thousand thanks, dear colleagues, for making this journey unforgettable. We will meet again, albeit with me in a different role.

Pål

The eternal crown prince or deputy is a figure who often finds themselves in the shadow of the leader and thrives there, yet still plays a hopefully important role in the organization. If we believe the descriptions online, the crown princes’ perpetual presence in this position can be both a blessing and a curse. What it has been for me, others will judge, but now I will from May 1st lead you safely through spring and summer until a new institute leader is in place, hopefully by September 1st.

In the meantime, there is much exciting happening. First up is the K2 seminar on April 30th. There we will thank Pål for the great effort he has made for K2 over 6 years. Never have K2 researchers brought in more BOA funds than in the last years under Pål’s leadership. In addition, there will be presentations about artificial intelligence, gene studies, and what the new KG Jebsen Center lead by Gjertsen and Chera will be dealing with. There will be talks about the work environment and chemical handling, Vestlandslegen and our jubilants will be marked. As always, there will be good food and time to mingle with colleagues. In May and June, there will be a Faculty lunch and Institute Council, exams including OSCE, so stay tuned.

As always, there are application opportunities. The Trond Mohn Center for Women’s Research is announcing grants, there is a call for sketches for a new round of Norwegian Center of Excellence plus much more, detailed in K2 news.

Eystein