We’re well into the autumn semester after a lovely summer break. I hope everyone had the chance to take some time off, enjoy the summer, and maybe travel a bit, spending time with friends and family. I certainly did, and now I’m ready to get back to work for the faculty. A lot has already happened since the holidays.
Summer is here, and the holidays are just around the corner. I am looking forward to it, as I will travel a bit, relax at the cabin, and spend time with my family. I hope you all do something enjoyable and take time for a break!
Academic values are under pressure in large parts of the world. This also applies to our close partners at universities and research institutes in the USA, who are experiencing threats, sanctions and closures. The picture changes almost from day to day, and the development is unpredictable. The USA is cutting research budgets at the same time as China is making a targeted and long-term effort to become the world's leading research nation. This is creating a completely new situation, where Nordic and European cooperation and close partnerships with good allies are more important than ever.
I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Year’s holiday and have recharged your batteries for a new semester! I am glad we are back in action and look forward to an eventful spring!