International expert panel charts the course for stronger research at KI
The first phase of the external evaluation of research at Karolinska Institutet has now been completed. The review is conducted by an international expert panel, which highlights the need for a clearer strategic framework, stronger internal communication, and further development of leadership and career pathways.
The review forms part of KI’s systematic quality assurance work and is carried out within the framework of the KI Research Assessment (KIRA). From 2025 onwards, regular research evaluations are planned approximately every six to eight years, with annual follow-ups. Thirteen of KI’s departments are included in this first evaluation cycle.
The expert panel has analysed the departments’ self-evaluations and preliminary action plans. In addition, the panel visited KI to discuss the documentation with departmental representatives as well as with KI’s leadership at central level.
Identify areas for development
“The panel’s remit has been forward-looking: to identify areas for development that can strengthen the long-term conditions and processes for research at KI. They have now delivered their feedback and recommendations, both at departmental level and at university level, in a report,” says Carl Sundström, coordinator at the Office of Research Support and External Relations.
The recommendations in the report span a wide range of areas. They include the need for a clearer strategic framework, strengthened internal communication, and further development of leadership and career pathways. The report also addresses the need for continued efforts to promote gender equality and equal opportunities.
“The external evaluation is an important part of KI’s long-term and systematic quality assurance work. The expert panel brings an impressive breadth of scientific expertise and experience in academic leadership, and their recommendations provide a valuable basis for our continued development,” says Martin Bergö, Vice-President of KI.
The next step in the process is to review and refine the recommendations so that they can inform further development work at central level. At the same time, the departments concerned are finalising their action plans for their own ongoing development efforts.
Joint discussion
The expert panel’s report and the departments’ action plans will be published ahead of the KIRA quality seminar on 17 June. The seminar will provide a forum for joint discussion of the review and will also pave the way for a corresponding evaluation of the remaining departments at KI.
“Now the most important work begins – translating the recommendations into concrete actions together. Strengthening Karolinska Institutet is a shared responsibility,” says Martin Bergö.
As a first step, the section of the expert panel’s report containing recommendations addressed to KI as a university is now being published.
KIRA: a recurring research evaluation
KIRA 2025 will be carried out in two cycles. The first cycle, taking place in 2025–2026, includes 13 departments, while the second cycle in 2026–2027 will focus on the remaining eight departments. Ahead of the KIRA seminar on 17 June, the first report and the departments’ action plans will be available on the KI Staff Portal.