Group for strategic competence provision

The Past Year

During the year, the group has worked on establishing common working methods and principles. The work has included numerous decisions regarding the establishment of professorships and senior lectureships, as well as discussions on expanded opportunities for joint positions, the review of qualification requirements, and other strategic discussions related to long‑term competence provision. Over the year, the group approved 23 proposals for the establishment of professorships and 12 proposals for senior lectureships.

One question raised during the year was whether Karolinska Institutet should introduce a possible promotion pathway from senior lecturer to professor. KI’s leadership has decided that the current career structure should remain in place and that professorships at KI shall continue to be filled through open competition, in accordance with existing regulations.

Established Principles

GSK has decided that, for the time being, it will work to maintain the number of professors at a stable level to ensure balance within the career structure. Furthermore, the group will work to elevate the status and attractiveness of the senior lecturer position and, for now, increase the number of senior lecturers at KI as part of long‑term competence planning.

These principles are based on a clear need for more senior lecturers; currently, the number of professors is high, while the number of senior lecturers is relatively low. The principles have been formed based on combined needs in research and education.

Areas of Decision‑Making

GSK makes decisions regarding the appointment of positions as professor and senior lecturer. GSK also decides on the focus of the position (research, or education and research), and the subject area, and participates in the preparation of governing documents and strategies related to competence provision.

As of 3 April 2025, a decision from GSK is required before the recruitment of a professor or senior lecturer can be initiated.