Annika Olsson, Dean at The Faculty of Engineering, will be in Visby. She says:
“If we are to succeed in the transition to a sustainable and competitive society, research, industry, and politics need to work closely together. Almedalen is an important forum for that dialogue, and that is why it is natural for us to be there and contribute our knowledge and perspectives.”
Biotechnology for Breakfast
LTH is hosting a breakfast discussion on industrial biotechnology and its potential to become an important part of the food system of the future. Annika Olsson will introduce the discussion.
“Biotechnology beyond life sciences – that’s industrial biotechnology, which is used to develop foods, chemicals, and materials, among other things,” she says.
A strong Swedish biotechnology sector can replace fossil-based raw materials and reduce energy consumption, while creating new jobs and strengthening the industry’s competitiveness, according to Annika Olsson.
“But we need to coordinate our efforts – academia, industry, and the public sector. That will give us a better chance of jointly influencing EU regulations so that biotech solutions and foods can reach the market more quickly. This discussion here in Almedalen is a step in the right direction.”
What exactly is quantum?
“Quantum” is the word on everyone’s lips right now. But do we really know what it means and how it can be used? That’s what quantum researchers hope to clarify in the seminar “What exactly is quantum – and why is everyone talking about it?”
Quantum physics describes how the universe’s smallest building blocks work. There, the usual laws of physics aren’t enough, and probabilities will take over. A particular strength in Lund is the work on quantum sensors – a technology that can measure and detect things with extreme precision. Medical applications are also highlighted as an area with great potential.
Peter Samuelsson, one of the quantum researchers participating in Almedalen, says:
“There are ideas about navigation without GPS and about being able to detect things beneath the ground or the ocean’s surface with very high sensitivity. Quantum sensors can be used to detect magnetic fields or determine position in entirely new ways.”
Peter Samuelsson also explains that in Almedalen, Lund’s quantum researchers aim to make the field more accessible and demonstrate that Lund University is a leading player in quantum technology.
The Future of Aviation – what does it look like?
Elna Heimdal Nilsson, the “aviation professor” at LTH, will participate in a discussion about aviation, its impact on the climate, how geopolitics affects aviation, and the role airports play in the aviation sector’s transition.
“Why do we need to fly? Most people probably think of vacation trips, but aviation is so much more than just vacation flights. There are air ambulances, rescue flights, and transport flights what’s known as ‘essential aviation,’ says Elna Heimdal Nilsson.
She also discusses why it takes time for the aviation industry to adapt.
“Innovation in the aviation industry is slower than in other industries because the processes involved in flying need time so that we can be 100 percent certain of safety before we take off. Flying is one of our safest modes of transportation today, and it must remain so even as we transition,” she says.
