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Stefan Bertilsson is appointed Secretary General for Natural Sciences
He is Professor in Functional Ecology of Limnic Ecosystems at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SLU. In his new role as Secretary General, he wants to work towards a future with high-quality, innovative research, where scientifically based knowledge takes centre stage in the debate.
Stefan Bertilsson. Photo: Britt-Marie Olsson
The Swedish Research Council's new Secretary General for Natural Sciences is Stefan Betilsson. Since 2019 he is Professor in Functional Ecology of Limnic Ecosystems at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, SLU. His research targets the ecology and biogeochemistry of aquatic microorganisms in lakes and oceans as well as ground water and wetlands. He has also been deeply involved in research infrastructures such as Scilifelab and SITES (Swedish Infrastructure for Ecosystem Science).
“It is important for the Swedish research community and for the knowledge sector that we work and collaborate effectively on issues relating to research infrastructure, both within organisations and nationally and internationally,” says Stefan Bertilsson.
When asked what his hopes are for the role of Secretary General for Natural Sciences at the Swedish Research Council, his answer is clear:
“In my view, the role offers a unique opportunity to work in a focused and strategic manner on issues relating to research funding, research policy and the role and influence of science in society. I hope to contribute to a future of high-quality, innovative research, where scientifically based knowledge is part of the debate and is used to make the right decisions,” he says.
The fact that the Scientific Council for Natural Sciences and the Committee for Engineering Sciences – which is new to the Swedish Research Council – have many areas of overlap is seen as an opportunity for increased collaboration.
“These two areas are closely linked. Forms, routines and structures for collaboration need to be developed through dialogue and require careful consideration and tact. The same applies to the connection between natural sciences and other research areas, such as medicine and social sciences.
Are there any particular questions you want to focus on?
– The importance of international research collaboration and of establishing strong, creative research environments. In an age of alternative facts, I also want to focus on the role of science in the public debate.
Stefan Bertilsson will start as the new Secretary General for Natural Sciences on 1 October 2025.
The Swedish Research Council has seven secretaries general, each with a high level of scientific competence, who contribute knowledge and experience to the organisation
The secretaries general are part of the Swedish Research Council’s executive management team, and initiate, drive and follow up issues within their respective areas of expertise. The secretaries general are active researchers, and usually employed by the Swedish Research Council on a part-time basis for a maximum of six years.
Read more about the Swedish Research Council’s secretaries general
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