STINT approves SEK 10 million in strategic funding to MIRAI
The Swedish Foundation for International Cooperation in Research and Higher Education, STINT, has reached the decision to grant SEK 10 million to MIRAI for the period 2024-2026. Researchers from 17 universities in Sweden and Japan will work in interdisciplinary teams focusing on global challenges.
The four “Global Challenges Teams” will be addressed through to development of diverse teams, and it is that diversity that is expected to spark innovative solutions. These Global Challenges Teams will be assisted by three interdisciplinary support teams. They are closely connected with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Challenge 1: Health and an ageing population (Part of SDG 3)
- Challenge 2: Climate adaption, disaster and risk management and prevention (Part of SDG 13)
- Challenge 3: Resilient cities and communities – policies, strategies, local government and urban planning (Part of SDG 11)
- Challenge 4: Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage: renewable energy, solar energy conversion, electrification, sustainable processes and use of resources (Part of SDG 7)
MIRAI has always had a strong focus on junior researchers and providing them the opportunity to build their international networks. Now, STINT is earmarking five of the ten million kronor for mobility for PhD students and early-career researchers, allowing them to spend longer periods at partner universities in the two countries and have the opportunity to teach there.
Out of 17 applications received in STINT’s call, only MIRAI was granted funding. STINT’s motivation for the grant is the following:
“Overall, this is one of the best projects the panel saw. Noting that it builds on an established network, there is evidence of a clear vision for future development and some novelty in terms of delivery. A particular strength is the breadth of coverage – in terms of “challenges” and the numbers of institutions involved.”
The aim of STINT’s Strategic Grants for Internationalisation is to contribute to the renewal and development of university-wide internationalisation. The grant decision was announced on June 18, 2024.