Foto: Ingvild Festervoll Melien

Summer is just around the corner and in this last editorial before the holidays, I want to make some observations about economy and culture.

At the start of the year, K2’s finances could resemble an airplane plunging towards the ground, but with persistent efforts we have succeeded in levelling the plane. We are no longer losing altitude and are now set to land on the budgeted deficit. Many have worked diligently to make this happen, not least Maria Holmaas and Beate Bernes. In addition, we have received good help from the faculty.

Going forward, the job will be to gain altitude and get rid of the deficit with the actions I have previously outlined; more research on less space, more teaching with fewer people, more EU and NFR projects and a relatively of 0-overhead grants, restructuring, possible closure of core facilities.

If we are to achieve this, everyone must be willing to “take one for the team”. This means that the tasks and burdens must be distributed more evenly than is the case today. It is not up to the individual employee to decide all his or her work tasks. As a teacher at the university, you can’t say that, no, I don’t want to be UGLE, or I just want to teach my narrow area of specialization – my colleagues have to do the other work. Everyone in an area must share the UGLE task, you may have to devote a little more time and effort to renew your teaching and taking on teaching tasks that you are not entirely familiar with and sit on a committee not entirely relevant for you – then the work will be more evenly distributed.

Since I also work at the Department of Medicine, I get the opportunity to experience another organization. Every morning, the department gathers for a morning meeting with a report from the team on call and the individual units. One might think that a lot of time is wasted on such a joint meeting, but this meeting point creates a unity and a team spirit that translates into offering help when someone is short on staff or hands to solve a task – you grow into thinking more of us than me. Now, K2 is a different type of organization and I am not suggesting that we should have morning meetings, but the team spirit at Department of Medicine is something we need to acquire in order to perform and thrive better at K2.

Use the summer to think about how you can contribute to a better team spirit;  don’t ask what the department can do for you – ask what you can do for the department.

Finally, Professor Silke Appel will be the new Head of Department and will take office as soon as it is practically possible. We congratulate her and wish her the best of luck at K2’s helm.

Have a lovely summer,

Eystein Husebye

DigitalHealth2024 was recently hosted in Bergen. This is the third time this conference, organized by Helse Bergen, Bergen University College, and Alrek Health Cluster, has taken place. This year’s conference was filled to capacity, with 700 participants. The main subject, as suggested by the title, was the development and implementation of digitalization in healthcare, which is highly relevant to much of the operations at K2.

Many participants probably expected the conference to provide answers regarding the direction of digitalization and the “next big thing”. Where are we headed when ChatGPT is no longer a novelty that can provide you with a waffle recipe and a few humorous answers to your simple questions, and it is no longer sensational that digital image analysis can reduce the response time for radiological examinations? The answer provided can be summarized as “it is coming, and it is developing rapidly”. It is difficult, even for those who work with digitalization daily, to foresee what the next few years will bring on a specific level. One subject that stood out was patient-related data, collected through digital channels, where the channel is not only used for data collection – but also more actively in patient care e.g. to convey information or to identify patients who need intensified follow-up.

The challenges seem easier to identify. We need to be actively involved in the development, and not wait for technology to be introduced. Patient safety and privacy quickly become an issue, closely linked to data collection and acquisition, e.g. in the context of collaboration with commercial services. Financing, political incentives, and a jungle of companies, apps, and services entering the market with varying degrees of validation are other key points.

It is important to remember that not only classic products, but also services and processes can be included when considering technology and innovation in healthcare. Regardless, it will be challenging but crucial to stay updated as the field races ahead. In summary, I believe that digitalization and increasing awareness around it can make the path from research to implementation shorter – but still, it is a bit difficult to grasp exactly how this will happen.

Silje

Thank you very much to all who contributed to the successful completion of OSKE12 yesterday, and to those who will participate next week for OSKE6! I can only encourage more people to contribute, as it will reduce the workload for everyone.

I was also very pleased to hear that half of the applications to DRIV – Center for Women’s Health Research, submitted last week, came from K2, a total of 14 applications! Now the evaluation is underway, and we will find out in August who will proceed to step 2. Let’s keep our fingers crossed that some from K2 will make it through.

But this is a good starting point to continue with proposal writing and submit to NFR – FRIPRO. Marit Bakke provided information this week that:

1. FRIPRO will distribute 900 million NOK this year.
2. So far, a total of only 100 applications have been received from all fields in Norway.
3. Applications submitted by mid-August will be considered for this year’s round.

This means that there are better chances than ever to succeed in FRIPRO this year. And now we also have a deadline: mid-August. Remember to register your application in our portal for externally funded projects (Skjemaker for applications, K2), so one of the economists can assist you with the budget and help us turn around the deficit K2 has accumulated.

Have a great weekend

K2 is running a significant deficit, and changes are necessary to turn things around. Therefore, the management has initiated several measures that will affect your workday. In such situations, it can often be challenging, to use a favorite expression of politicians, but it is crucial to identify and seize the opportunities that exist.

The broader picture indicates that the Norwegian education sector is gradually being downsized over time, though perhaps not as much in the health and medicine sectors, where many hands will be needed in the future. We are not alone in this; reduced resources are something all universities must cope with, and as always, it’s important to be among the best.

What does this mean for K2? The following points summarize some of the measures management is working on:

• Space Reduction: K1 and K2 are working to reduce their area in the Laboratory Building by about 400m² to save on rent. The involved groups are collaborating with management to find solutions that do not harm research activities, and we hope this process can be completed by the end of August.
• Core Facilities: Our core facilities are crucial infrastructure for research and are often essential for securing research funding. K2 has many such facilities, all running at a deficit, which collectively poses a significant problem. We must, therefore, consider restructuring, relocating, or possibly shutting down non-critical core facilities.
• Zero-Overhead Projects: While these projects are beneficial, they also pose a problem as they burden the collective resources. K2 has many large projects in this category, contributing to the deficit. Until now, we have had matching funds to mitigate this, but this scheme has been discontinued. We are working on budgeting to reduce deficits in such projects, including freeing up project staff. So far, we have not declined such projects, but it could become a reality in the future.
• Efficient Teaching: The number of students is increasing, but the number of teachers is decreasing, requiring more teaching from fewer staff. In collaboration with the study administration, we are working to get a better overview of teaching responsibilities and who can contribute. We need to be open to new ideas; perhaps you will need to teach a subject you are not a super specialist in, or perhaps an academic environment needs to change the curriculum to make teaching more efficient with new tools. Introducing more weekly duties in the departments might also be necessary. Here, dialogue with healthcare institutions will be crucial to find good arrangements.
• Same People, New Tasks: Starting in June, we will map the competencies of technical staff and PhD/postdocs with an eye on administrative tasks. We need people to assist with events, defenses, and other work on a voluntary basis.

Turning the economy around requires everyone to contribute. We have discussed this in various forums, but so far, the engagement has been rather low. Everyone must participate if we are to succeed, and we must be willing to think creatively.

Eystein Husebye,
Acting Head of Department

Many individuals who are employed or indirectly connected to K2 through research contribute to teaching at the bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD levels, and towards the professional studies at the Faculty of Medicine. Yet, there is a need for more hands (or rather, brains) and a more adequate distribution of tasks. But why teach or supervise students if it is not a formal requirement in the position or role you hold?

Many discover the rewarding aspects of teaching and supervision when they reach a point where they “have to” get involved in such tasks, while some realize a bit too late that teaching experience would provide a more complete CV, in terms of both real-life and formal competence.

Teaching can force one to delve into areas slightly outside one’s core competence. Through the preparation for teaching and, for example, supervising students who work on various assignments, this can contribute to a broader professional impact. Evaluation (“sensor”) assignments can serve a similar function, while also providing an insight into other environments and their activities – which can come in handy when in need for an evaluator for one’s own students.

Through such processes, one often needs to look afresh at one’s own passive knowledge concerning definitions and basic concepts that might be taken for granted in everyday work activities – can you really explain them to a less experienced person? Sometimes, more experienced individuals may have moments of discovery when going back to concepts they think they have understood and can explain outright. Students ask questions one as never considered.

Everyone probably clearly recalls one or several teachers or mentors from their own time as a student. Some for the ‘wrong’ reasons, but some as important role models and academic mentors. In an era with a growing focus on digitalization in teaching, I believe it is very important that students meet dedicated professionals and scientists, and I believe these meetings can be motivating for both parties.

Regarding formal competence: various forms of teaching are credited in the training part of the UiB PhD education, and supervisors can encourage the emphasis on such activities in the training component. Specific requirements apply for promotions/appointments in academic positions, but teaching will always complement an academic CV.

Be reminded that teaching is not just lectures but can take many forms. If you want to contribute to teaching or supervision, you can communicate this to the leader of your research group, to teaching group leaders in your field, or to colleagues who teach a relevant subject.

Silje – Fungerende undervisningsleder.

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

“Innovative Health Initiative” (IHI) is a funding source which may not be well known in the Deartment yet, possibly because the first call for proposals was launched in 2022. IHI is partially funded by the EU and partially by industry associations within the natural sciences (pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, medical technology). The calls from IHI differ from those we primarily associate with the EU. There is a focus on innovation, but with an emphasis on implementation rather than innovation at low TRL levels. One of the main goals is to facilitate the transition from industry-derived innovations to application in healthcare services to achieve the transformation required in the healthcare services in the future. This is reflected in the calls, which have so far been relatively specific. For instance, one of last year’s calls focused on “Patient-centered blood sample collection to enable decentralized clinical trials and improve access to healthcare,” focusing on the use of already established methods for such blood sampling. It is a requirement, not just a strength, that partners from industry and/or public administration be involved in the projects, and it is often industry partners who initiate the consortium.

At the moment, IHI calls 6 and 7 are active, with deadlines approaching soon. Therefore, next year’s calls may be more relevant. Establishing a good consortium will be a comprehensive process. Joining as a partner in projects initiated by others can be a good approach. On IHI’s website, there is a tool for registering as a potential partner and building networks. Potential partners from Norway are considered interesting, but one should consider specific Norwegian issues, such as healthcare financing, in relation to relevant projects. Another tip is to become a member of relevant COST networks. Here, there are often potential partners interested in working towards EU-related applications. An overview of active COST actions can be found on the COST website: : https://www.cost.eu/

One final point is that IHI welcomes input regarding future calls, allowing stakeholders to influence future directions.

Whether you spent your days in the mountains, abroad, or at home in Bergen, I hope you had time for family and friends and managed to recharge your batteries.

Now we’re heading into a term leading up to summer, which tends to be busy with OSCE exams and application deadlines. I encourage you once again to apply for FRIPRO NFR, as there are currently very few applications, increasing your chances of success. Additionally, consider EU and ERC, which actually have higher success rates than NFR 🌟.

Here are some important meetings involving all or some of you that deserve your support:

1. Wednesday, April 17, 9:00 AM–12:00 PM: Faculty Day (for everyone): Awards ceremony and exciting lectures. Let’s celebrate this fantastic day together!
2. Tuesday, April 30, 8:30 AM–2:00 PM: K2 Seminar (for everyone): Focus on practical AI use and safety.
3. Wednesday, May 8, 11:30 AM–12:30 PM: Joint lunch at Eitri (for everyone).
4. Wednesday, May 15: Faculty Lunch (for academic staff): Dean Per Bakke, CFO Kristine Tangen, and Faculty Director Synnøve Myhre will discuss the impact on our faculty when “all” state funds go toward defense.
5. Wednesday, June 12, 11:30 AM–12:30 PM: Joint lunch at Eitri (for everyone).

Have a wonderful weekend!

Pål

Dear all!

The institute’s day will be held on April 30 in “Storsalen”, Nygårdsgaten 5, and I hope as many as possible have the opportunity to participate. This is a great way to get to know each other. The program with focus on AI can be found here, and registration is already open here 😊 Deadline to sign up is 12 April.

Even in these financially difficult times we will allocate small research funds. The intention is that the funds should be given to research groups that have not received large grants so that they can start new projects. It can be applied to cover expenses for travel, seminars, courses, materials, technical-administrative assistance and other operating costs.

Requirements for application and criteria for allocation:

– The funds go to researchers who do not have large operating funds already.
– The size of the individual grants is between 15 000-75 000 NOK.
– The funds must be used by 2023 and cannot be transferred to 2024.
– Recipients must be active researchers in a permanent scientific position at K2, Prof. II or 1.am. II.
– Recipients must have applied for external funds in recent years.

All permanent scientific employees (including scientific employees in 10-50% position) at K2 can apply. It is done via this link. Deadline is 8.4.2024.

I also remind everybody that the Faculty day will be held Wednesday April 17 from 9:00-12:00 in the auditorium of the AHH and I hope to see many of you there..

Have a nice weekend!

Lauritz Meltzer, a prominent businessman, generously left his wealth to establish the Meltzer Research Fund at the UiB. The fund’s primary objective is to advance scientific endeavors within UiB and provide support to exceptionally talented students. Each year, on Lauritz Meltzer´s birthday (March 8th), three recipients are honored with an award that includes NOK 200,000 from the fund.

The Value and Impact of Research Prizes and Awards in Medicine

What are the value and importance of research prizes and awards? I think these accolades serve as beacons, illuminating the path toward scientific excellence and inspiring the next generation of researchers. Let us delve into the significance of the 2024 honors, celebrating the remarkable achievements of our esteemed colleagues.

Recognizing Excellence: Ellen Røyrvik, PhD

Dr. Ellen Christine Røyrvik, recipient of the Award for Young Researchers, embodies the spirit of curiosity and innovation. Her work in genetics and population history has been nothing short of groundbreaking. Dr. Røyrvik’s interdisciplinary background—spanning genetics, molecular biology, archaeology, and linguistics—has allowed her to explore fundamental questions about Norwegian and European population history. But her impact extends beyond historical inquiries. By shedding new light on the biology of clinically important diseases, she bridges the gap between scientific discovery and patient care. Her prolific publication record showcases both breadth and depth, underscoring her dedication to advancing medical knowledge.

Pioneering Infection Research: Professor Nina Langeland, MD, PhD

Professor Nina Langeland stands as a beacon of excellence in infection research. Her pioneering efforts, particularly during the corona pandemic, have saved lives and shaped our understanding of infectious diseases. What sets her apart is not just her scientific acumen but also her unwavering commitment to patients. With over 25 years of experience as a senior physician at Haukeland University Hospital, Professor Langeland’s research is deeply rooted in the realities of patient care. She listens to their stories, observes their struggles, and translates these insights into meaningful scientific investigations.

Translational Research: Bridging Disciplines

Professor Langeland’s approach exemplifies the essence of translational research. By seamlessly integrating clinical experience with advanced laboratory methods, she unravels the complexities of diseases. Her work transcends disciplinary boundaries, collaborating with experts across institutions. Through this interdisciplinary synergy, she not only solves clinical puzzles but also contributes to the broader scientific community.

A Call to Celebrate

Research prizes and awards are more than mere accolades; they symbolize dedication, perseverance, and collaboration. As we honor Dr. Røyrvik and Professor Langeland, we celebrate the spirit of inquiry—the driving force that propels medicine forward. Let us continue to champion our many very good researchers, encourage curiosity, and foster an environment where excellence thrives.

Congratulations to our distinguished awardees, and may their passion continue to illuminate the path toward better health and a brighter future.

Dear colleagues and friends,

It is with immense pride and excitement that I announce the establishment of the KG Jebsen Center for Myeloid Leukemia within K2. This momentous occasion marks a significant leap forward in our relentless pursuit of scientific excellence and innovative medical solutions.

Let us reflect on the profound impact that research centers like the KG Jebsen Center have on our academic community and beyond. These centers serve as crucibles of knowledge, where brilliant minds converge, collaborate, and ignite transformative ideas. They are the beating hearts of discovery, pushing the boundaries of human understanding and paving the way for groundbreaking therapies.

What centers does K2 host today?

• The Broegelmann Research Laboratories (Broegelmann Foundation)
• The Influensa Center (Directorate for Health and Care)
• The Center for Pharmacy (UiB, with Department of Chemistry, Mat Nat)
• The KG Jebsen Center for Genomic Cancer Therapy (Stiftelsen KG Jebsen)
• The KG Jebsen Senter for Myeloid Leucemia (Stiftelsen KG Jebsen)
• The Mohn Center for Diabetes Precision Medicine (Trond Mohn Research Foundation)
• The Nutrition Research Laboratory (Trond Mohn Research Foundation)
• The Mohn Cancer Research Laboratory (Trond Mohn Research Foundation)
• The Center for Antibiotics Resistance (Trond Mohn Research Foundation)
• The Center for Regenerative Medicine (Trond Mohn Research Foundation)
• The Center for Heart Disease Research in Women (Heart Foundation)

Why are research centers so invaluable?

1. Interdisciplinary synergy: Our new center exemplifies the spirit of interdisciplinary collaboration. By bringing together experts from diverse fields—hematology, genetics, immunology, and clinical medicine—we create a fertile ground for cross-pollination of ideas. It is at these intersections that breakthroughs occur, where a biologist’s insight meets a clinician’s practical wisdom, and where innovation thrives.
2. Sustained focus: The KG Jebsen Center’s dedicated focus on myeloid leukemia ensures that we delve deep into the intricacies of this complex disease. With a laser-like precision, our researchers will unravel its molecular underpinnings, identify novel therapeutic targets, and improve patient outcomes. This sustained commitment is our promise to those affected by leukemia—a promise of hope and progress.
3. Seedbed for future funding: While many centers operate within finite timeframes, their impact reverberates far beyond their initial funding cycles. The seeds they sow germinate into grant proposals, collaborative projects, and industry partnerships. The KG Jebsen Center, like its predecessors, will catalyze external funding, securing our position as a hub of scientific excellence.

Let us extend our warmest congratulations to Professor Bjørn Tore Gjertsen at the helm of the KG Jebsen Center. His unwavering dedication to leukemia research and patient care inspires us all. Under his guidance, I am confident that the center will flourish, yielding discoveries that change lives.

Wishing everyone a nice winter vacation and retuning to K2 with recharged batteries and improved range !

Pål & aiPål

As the University of Bergen’s Medical Faculty prepares to host its annual Health, Environment, and Safety (HMS) Day, anticipation mounts for an enlightening and impactful event. Scheduled to take place next Wednesday 21 February at noon, this day aims to prioritize well-being, sustainability, and safety within our academic community and beyond.

A cornerstone of the program is the presentation by HMS Coordinator Ørjan Leren on the Action Plan for HMS and the Faculty’s priorities for 2024. He will outline a strategy to reduce barriers for higher education. Further enriching the discourse, Senior Consultants Nora Abdalla Mohammed and Michelle Odette Iversen Badiane from the Study Department will shed light on the “Diverse UiB – No One Left Behind” project.

The FPD Include Erasmus+ project, presented by Associate Professor Reidun Lisbet Skeide Kjome from the Department of Global Public Health and Primary Care, promises to offer insights into fostering diversity and inclusivity within academic settings.

University Chief Safety Representative June Vibecke Knudtsen Indrevik will underscore the importance of a safe work environment for all, emphasizing collective responsibility and vigilance.

As the day draws to a close, the presentation of the 2023 Work Environment Prize by HMS Coordinator Ørjan Leren will be a fitting culmination, celebrating exemplary contributions to creating a safe and healthy workplace.

I hope you are inspired and urge you to participate, even if it a digital event.

Eystein Husebye
Vice Head of K2

Dear colleagues,

It is with a mix of emotions that I pen this editorial. After six years at the helm of the Department of Clinical Science, I have decided to step down from my position as Department Head. This decision has not been taken lightly, but rather with careful consideration of the demands and responsibilities that come with leading such a dynamic and impactful department.

Our department, a hub of research and teaching excellence, has grown significantly during my tenure. With 382 dedicated employees, including 70 full-time professors and associated professors, 80 part-time professors and associated professors, over 180 researchers, podt docs and PhD students as well as 50 technicians and administrative staff , we have made significant strides in advancing clinical and translational medical research. This means that in 2023, we had publications in top-tier journals and set a record for external funding: 121 million NOK. You teach a variety of clinical specialties in addition to pharmacy and nutrition in an exemplary manner. And you have excelled in the competition to establish several new and robust research centers.

However, as the demands of leadership have intensified, I find myself at a crossroads. Balancing the responsibilities of both Department Head and Director of the Mohn Center of Diabetes Precision Medicine has been challenging. The pursuit of excellence requires focus, and I believe it is time to pass the torch to a new leader who can continue to push our department forward.

I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together. Our collaborative spirit, dedication to patient care, and groundbreaking research have left an indelible mark. As I step down, I am confident that the department will continue to thrive under new leadership.

I will be stepping down on April 30, 2024, and in the coming period, I will gradually transfer my responsibilities to Eystein Husebye, who will serve as the Acting Department Head. Rest assured, I remain committed to our shared mission, and I look forward to contributing to the department in new ways. My decision is not a farewell but rather a shift in roles—one that allows me to focus on the exciting work happening at the Mohn Center.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering support and dedication. Together, we have made a difference in the lives of patients and the future of medicine. Let us continue to collaborate, innovate, and inspire.

Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey.

As we embark on a new chapter at the Department of Clinical Science, I am thrilled to announce two additions to our leadership team:

Professor Svein Skeie, MD, PhD: An accomplished endocrinologist and Head of Research at Stavanger University Hospital, Svein Skeie will assume the role of Leader of Stavanger Relations. His deep understanding of leadership, clinical practice, and research will serve as a valuable link between our institutions. The collaboration with Stavanger University Hospital promises to strengthen our ties and foster innovative initiatives.

Professor Silje Skrede, MD, PhD: With a background in pharmacology and administrative work in teaching, Skrede joins us as Leader of Innovation which will strengthen our focus on this important field. Skrede will temporary act as Leader of Teaching while Mette Vesterhus is away.

Enjoy the week-end!

Pål

On Wednesday, K2’s self-evaluation was sent to the Research Council of Norway. It turned out to be a document of 268 pages. As with previous evaluations, this has taken a significant focus for the institute administration and those of you who contributed to the self-evaluation. In addition to the institute’s overall self-evaluation, the following research groups participated with their own self-evaluation:

• Bergen Respiratory Research Group by Tomas Mikal Lind Eagan
• Broegelmann by Helena Erlandsson Harris
• Endocrine Medicine by Eystein S. Husebye
• Research Group for Infection and Microbiology by Rebecca Jane Cox
• Drug Group by Lars Herfindal
• Mohn Center for Diabetes Precision Medicine by Pål R. Njølstad
• Oncology by Stian Knappskog
• Paediatric Follow-up Group by Camilla Tøndel
• Precision Oncology by Ola Myklebost

In addition, the following impact cases participated:

• Catching the rhythms by Eystein S. Husebye
• Changing clinical practice in childhood diabetes by precision medicine by Pål R. Njølstad
• Heart disease in women by Eva Gerdts
• Pandemic preparedness: the COVID-19 case by Rebecca Cox

The process ahead is a three-step evaluation. First, research groups are evaluated in expert panels categorized by field/discipline across sectors. Then, administrative units are evaluated in evaluation committees that are sector-specific. The third step is the national level, which includes all medical research in Norway. A selection of experts from the evaluation is used here.

The administrative units are the main object of the evaluation. Evaluation results for the research groups will be included in the evaluation report for the administrative unit to which they belong.

Many thanks to everyone who participated – especially Susanne and Silke – for great effort over a long period. Now we can enjoy the weekend with a clear conscience and hope for a good result!

Pål

It’s again time to find younger, promising candidates for Trond Mohn Starting grants: The Trond Mohn Research Foundation (TMS) has announced a new round of TMS Starting grants with a final deadline of 8 March (more info here). Since there is a limit to the number of nominated candidates each department can promote, we ask interested applicants to send an outline of maximum 3 pages describing the candidate, the project, and the research community, and the candidate’s CV (TMS wants a CV of up to three pages that includes the most important and relevant publications).

The internal deadline is February 12. The project outline and CV must be sent to silke.appel@uib.no.

It is worth noting that this scholarship provides an opportunity to bring in external candidates, something both the foundation and the Faculty of Medicine strongly encourage.

And it is still possible to promote individuals for the faculty awards 😊

Proposal for Publication/PhD/Group/Dissemination/Innovation

Suggestions for Education Awards

Have a nice week-end!

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We are now in the final stages of RCN’s EVALMEDHEALTH report, thank you very much to all of you who have contributed so far! There is still some work to be done before the deadline 31.1., and not least, I encourage everyone once again to update their website.

But enough hustle about this, over to something far more fun that was already mentioned before Christmas: The Faculty of Medicine has announced several awards for 2023. If you/your research group/academic group know someone who has excelled in 2023, either on the research front (publication, research environment, PhD work, dissemination), as an innovation environment or when it comes to teaching, then now is the chance to nominate colleagues/environments (or yourself!). The categories are

• Publication of the Year (NOK 100 000)
• Research environment of the year (NOK 150 000)
• PhD work of the year (NOK 100 000)
• Dissemination award (NOK 100 000)
• Innovation award (NOK 100 000)
• Education Award (up to three awards for outstanding initiatives in education, a main prize of NOK 150,000 and up to two more prizes of NOK 50,000 each!)

We from K2 can put forward one candidate in each category, so do not hesitate to submit proposals (with thorough reasoning) by Monday 5 February 2024. More detailed information can be found here.

Proposal for Publication/PhD/Group/Dissemination/Innovation

Suggestions for Education Awards

And it is not too late to send nominations for the Meltzer Prizes – the deadline is today (19.1.24) 😊 All professors have the right to nominate, so check if you know of an outstanding research communicator, clever younger researcher or someone who has excelled over time with outstanding scientific activity (link to more information). The nomination should be sent to Kristin.Hansen@uib.no

Have a great weekend!

As we begin the new year, it’s time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. For many of us, this means returning to work after a well-deserved break. As a large university medical department with many specialties in medicine as well as in pharmacy and nutrition with staff teaching and performing research, we have a unique opportunity to set the tone for the year ahead.

It is important to acknowledge the challenges that we have all faced over the past few years, including the pandemic and its impact on our work and personal lives as well as large cuts in public funding, which has resulted in a negative surplus in the economy. However, it is also important to focus on the positives and look for ways to move forward. This can include setting new goals, developing new strategies, or simply finding new ways to connect with colleagues. It is important to remember that challenges are a natural part of any organization’s growth and development. By working together and focusing on our strengths, we can find new and innovative ways to overcome these obstacles. This can include exploring new funding sources, developing new partnerships, or simply finding ways to streamline our operations.

Thus, coming back to work in the new year is an opportunity to start fresh and make a positive impact. By focusing on the positives, investing in your environment, and maintaining open lines of communication, you can help set the stage for a successful year ahead.