16 specialists from the SiCoMaP industrial research school strengthens Swedish industry

 

“The doctoral students have developed specialised skills within production technology that are relevant for the companies. The majority are now conducting additional research within R&D divisions at the companies,” says Per Nylén, professor and head of Sicomap at University West.

Sicomap’s model is for externally employed doctoral students to participate in University West’s doctoral programmes while being employed by a company. The doctoral students’ research is based upon the various needs of the companies for specialised knowledge within specific areas. They receive support in their research and studies from mentors at both the companies and the University.

“Industrial research schools are an excellent form of collaboration between industry and academia. This model was also a natural choice for our University, as it is in line with our specific profile of work-integrating learning. It also keeps us up-to-date on industry’s research needs and it strengthens the University’s long-term collaboration with the Swedish industry,” says Per.

The doctoral students attend regular seminars where they can share their experiences and knowledge. The majority have also broadened their research experience by working abroad for three to four months at an internationally recognised research institute.

Johan Berglund, chair of Sicomap’s steering committee, has followed the progress of the doctoral students over the past three years at the research school.

“Following their work has been extremely interesting and I believe that they have benefited from learning together and from their contacts with senior researchers in academia. Participating in the academic world, receiving feedback and learning from the research of others is very beneficial. I experienced this while I was an externally employed doctoral student at the University’s previous research school, Cape,” explains Johan, who is today a researcher at the RISE research institute.

Anna-Karin Christiansson, another key person at Sicomap, has supported and closely followed the doctoral students during their education.

“It has been gratifying to follow the students’ personal development over these years. I am passionate about collaboration between industry and academia, because the most important research is conducted in collaboration,” says Anna-Karin, head of administration at Sicomap.

The new research school, Smart Industry Sweden, will be replacing Sicomap. University West and four other universities will be collaborating through the new research school starting in 2021. 

More information on Sicomap

SiCoMaP stands for Simulation and Control of Material affecting Processes.