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At the Pufendorf IAS, researchers at Lund University are given the opportunity to work together on a scientific problem area within a so-called Theme. A Theme is formed around a scientific problem that, for its solution, requires knowledge from several disciplines in collaboration.

A Theme must be innovative in nature and address the sort of questions that require input from several disciplines in collaboration. The Institute is an incubator for new research ideas and invite proposals that are at a stage where they would not yet qualify for external research funding. The objective of the Theme’s effort must however be clear; focus should be on paving the way for future research opportunities on the subject.

A clear objective does not mean delivering research findings that are eligible for publication during the Theme period; instead, the Theme objectives usually pave the way for further work in the field. 

Themes work at the Institute for 8 months with start in September. The Theme meet at the Institute one day a week and members are expected to be present and actively engaged in the collaboration. A successful Theme requires a well-composed combination of researchers with knowledge that contributes to the research area. A Theme generally involves 5-8 researchers from different faculties at Lund University.

Emphasis is placed on the creativity and versatility of the application, that the composition of the group’s expertise is well-justified and that the set objective for the work is feasible.

Read more about how to apply for a Theme at the Pufendorf IAS

Our Themes

The institute hosts about 3-5 Themes every year. Read more about the work carried out by our Themes on their website.