Future Secured for Kristineberg Marine Research Station
The future of the Kristineberg Marine Research Station in Fiskebäckskil is now secured. The Swedish government has decided that the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat will take over as host from the University of Gothenburg, ensuring long-term funding.
This means that one of the world’s oldest marine research stations can continue to evolve – and strengthen West Sweden’s position as an international hub for research and innovation.
– We are very pleased that a new host has been appointed and that the government is securing funding for Kristineberg. This means that the region and Sweden can remain at the forefront of marine research and become a national hub for marine and polar-oriented research, technological innovation, and industry-focused testbeds, says Anna Lärk Ståhlberg, Director General of Fyrbodal Municipal Association.
Long-term Stability
Founded in 1877, the Kristineberg Marine Research Station is one of the oldest of its kind in the world. It hosts world-leading research in areas such as oceanography, deep-sea geology, and marine and polar research in extreme environments. The station attracts scientists from around the globe with its advanced testing environments for offshore technology, autonomous vehicles, and underwater robotics.
– This solution provides long-term stability and strengthens Kristineberg’s role as an important node for business, academia, and society. By offering infrastructure both at sea and on land where ideas can be quickly tested and scaled, the station is well-positioned to become a driving force in regional and national maritime development, says Anne Bergeld Gunnäs, Business Region West.
Strengthening the Station’s Role
The new hosting arrangement also enables a strategic development of the station. The goal is to strengthen its role as a driver of innovation and to contribute to solutions for global challenges such as climate change, sustainable resource use, and maritime security.
– Sweden aims to be a world-leading polar research nation, with capacity for year-round expeditions and greater international impact for Swedish polar research. The government’s investment helps ensure that Kristineberg continues to offer high-level marine expertise and unique ocean research infrastructure, says Minister for Schools, Higher Education and Research Lotta Edholm.
The transfer of host responsibilities will take place in close collaboration between the University of Gothenburg and the Swedish Polar Research Secretariat.