Lund University launches its largest-ever recruitment drive, investing SEK 85 million to hire 25 global researchers, including 15 assistant professors and 10 visiting professors, with a focus on AI and interdisciplinary research to boost its world-class academic standing.
Lund, Sweden – June 26, 2025 – Lund University, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious academic institutions, has launched its most ambitious international recruitment campaign to date, aiming to bolster its global research standing by attracting top-tier researchers from around the world. With an unprecedented investment of SEK 85 million (approximately €7.5 million), the university is set to hire 25 researchers, including 15 assistant professors (associate senior lecturers) and 10 visiting professors, with a particular emphasis on advancing artificial intelligence (AI) research and other strategic fields. This landmark initiative underscores Lund University’s commitment to fostering innovation and maintaining its position as a global leader in higher education and research.
A Strategic Push for Excellence
Lund University’s recruitment drive comes on the heels of its impressive climb to 75th in the 2025 QS World University Rankings, a testament to its growing influence in global academia. The university, founded in 1666, has long been recognized for its contributions to fields ranging from medicine and engineering to social sciences and humanities. This new initiative is designed to further elevate its research profile by bringing in diverse talent to tackle pressing global challenges, with AI as a cornerstone of its strategic vision.
“We are at a pivotal moment in global research, where interdisciplinary collaboration and cutting-edge innovation are essential,” said Professor Erik Renström, Vice-Chancellor of Lund University. “This recruitment drive is not just about numbers—it’s about attracting visionary researchers who can push boundaries and contribute to solving the world’s most complex problems.”
The SEK 85 million investment will fund positions across multiple disciplines, with a significant focus on AI and related technologies. The university aims to strengthen its research in areas such as machine learning, data science, and AI applications in healthcare, climate science, and social systems. By recruiting both early-career researchers and seasoned academics, Lund University is positioning itself as a hub for groundbreaking discoveries.
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Recruitment Details: A Global Call for Talent
The recruitment drive targets two key groups: 15 assistant professors (associate senior lecturers) and 10 visiting professors. The assistant professor positions are aimed at early-career researchers who demonstrate exceptional promise in their fields. These roles offer tenure-track opportunities, providing a pathway to long-term academic careers at Lund University. The visiting professor positions, on the other hand, are designed to attract established scholars who can bring international expertise and foster collaboration with Lund’s existing faculty.
The recruitment process is highly competitive and open to applicants from around the world. Lund University has emphasized diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applications from researchers of varied backgrounds and nationalities. The university’s commitment to creating a vibrant, global academic community is reflected in its streamlined application process, which includes support for international candidates, such as relocation assistance and integration programs.
“We want to make Lund a home for the world’s brightest minds,” said Professor Sylvia Schwaag Serger, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalization. “Our goal is to create an environment where researchers can thrive, collaborate, and make a lasting impact.”
The new hires are expected to begin their roles in autumn 2025, with the university already receiving a surge of applications from countries across Europe, North America, Asia, and beyond. The recruitment campaign has been promoted widely through academic networks, international conferences, and online platforms, ensuring a broad and diverse applicant pool.
A Focus on AI and Interdisciplinary Research
Artificial intelligence is at the heart of Lund University’s strategic vision for this recruitment drive. As AI continues to transform industries and academic disciplines, Lund is investing heavily in building a robust research ecosystem in this area. The university already hosts several cutting-edge AI research centers, including the Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems, and Software Program (WASP), one of Sweden’s largest research initiatives.
The recruited researchers will contribute to projects exploring AI’s potential in areas such as personalized medicine, sustainable urban planning, and ethical governance of technology. For example, AI-driven research at Lund’s Faculty of Medicine is developing new diagnostic tools for early detection of diseases, while the Faculty of Engineering is leveraging AI to optimize renewable energy systems.
Beyond AI, the recruitment drive also prioritizes interdisciplinary research. Lund University is known for its collaborative approach, with researchers working across faculties to address complex challenges. The new hires will have opportunities to collaborate with experts in fields such as climate science, neuroscience, and cultural studies, fostering innovation at the intersection of disciplines.
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A Global Academic Destination
Lund University’s appeal as a destination for international researchers is bolstered by its vibrant academic community and high quality of life. Located in the picturesque city of Lund in southern Sweden, the university offers a dynamic research environment combined with a welcoming and inclusive culture. The city is part of the Öresund Region, a hub of innovation that connects Sweden and Denmark, with easy access to Copenhagen and its international airport.
The university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including advanced laboratories and research centers, provide an ideal setting for cutting-edge research. Additionally, Lund’s commitment to sustainability and social responsibility resonates with researchers who are passionate about making a positive impact on society.
A Bright Future for Lund University
The record-breaking recruitment drive is a bold step toward solidifying Lund University’s position as a global leader in research and education. By investing in top talent and fostering a culture of innovation, the university is poised to make significant contributions to science and society in the years to come.
As the application process continues, the global academic community is watching closely. With its ambitious vision, substantial funding, and commitment to excellence, Lund University is not only attracting researchers from around the world but also shaping the future of global research.
For more information about the recruitment drive or to apply, visit Lund University’s official website at www.lunduniversity.lu.se
Contact: Lund University Communications Office, press@lu.se