forskningsgrupp

Forskningsgrupp is the term used in Norwegian and Swedish contexts for a research group—typically a small to medium-sized team that conducts research around a shared scientific theme. A forskningsgrupp is usually led by a group leader or principal investigator and includes core researchers, postdoctoral fellows, PhD students, and sometimes technicians and affiliated collaborators. The group operates within a department or research institute and pursues a coherent program with defined objectives and milestones.

Core activities include designing and conducting studies, collecting and analyzing data, publishing results in peer-reviewed venues, and applying for external funding. Regular meetings, seminars, and collaborative work with other groups or industry partners are common. The group also handles administrative tasks such as grant management, budgeting, and mentoring students.

Funding for a forskningsgrupp may come from the university, national research councils, European programs, or industry partnerships. Governance is usually informal, centered on the group leader, with occasional input from senior researchers or a steering committee. Performance is often evaluated by publications, grant success, training outcomes, and contributions to departmental goals.

In practice, forskningsgrupper exist across Norwegian and Swedish universities and research institutes, varying in size and formality. They function as building blocks within larger centers and networks while maintaining a focused research agenda and opportunities for junior researchers to develop expertise.