Leadership for researchers | Karlstad University

Karlstads universitet erbjuder kompetensutveckling i ledarskap till forskare som vill vidareutveckla sitt ledarskap utifrån akademiens förutsättningar. Avsikten är att stärka forskare i sin ledarskapsroll och bidra till hållbara och framgångsrika forskningsmiljöer. Ledaskapsutveckling erbjuds på tre olika nivåer anpassat till vart du befinner dig i din forskarkarriär. Det är en progression genom de olika nivåerna, men de är fristående och det krävs inga specifika förkunskaper.

Introduction to Research Leadership in academia

Introduction to Research Leadership is designed for researchers who want to develop their leadership awareness and skills. Within the program you will work with the foundations of research leadership, leading self and others, building and Sustaining Research Teams and strategic development. The program consists of four modules. You can take part in one or more modules depending on your needs, or complete the full sequence for a comprehensive introduction to research leadership. We recommend that you do the modules in sequence 1 to 4 but it is not a demand. When you have participated in all four moduels you will receive a certificate. The program is organized by GIO and HR and held in English.

The dates for autumn 2026 are now set, registration will open shortly.

Module 1: Introduction to Leadership Theory and Styles October 15th 9-12

Module 2: Leadership and Group Dynamics November 5th 13-16

Module 3: Leadership in Practice — Conflict, Feedback and Contested Issues November 26th 9-12

Module 4: Leadership in Practice: Vision, Strategy and Development December 17th 9-12

Research Leader Initiative (REAL)

Research Leader Initiative is developed together with Linnaeus University, Mälardalen University, Karlstad University and Mid Sweden University. It is designed for our future research leaders and covers leadership, group development, grant writing, ethics and utilization.

In a hands-on approach, focus will be on practical elements based on each participant’s situation. You will acquire tools and methods that are directly and individually applicable in your role as a research leader. You will work together with researchers from our partner universities both in and between sessions.

For participation you need to consult with your head of department who nominate to the dean.

Research Leader Initiative (REAL) Advanced

REAL Advanced is tailored for participants who are established research leaders for larger research environments, projects, or centre formations from all scientific fields, seeking to further enhance their leadership skills. The emphasis is on strategic thinking, personal development, and communication skills. Participants will strengthen self-awareness, share experiences, and collaborate with peers from other fields. Practical elements and theory and training with leadership tools are interspersed with reflection and discussions.

Between the sessions participants practice coaching and receive professional leadership coaching. In this way, learning takes place in direct connection with the participants' own practices. The initiative is run in collaboration with Linnaeus University, Mälardalen University, Karlstad University and Mid Sweden University.

For participation you need to consult with your head of department who nominate to the dean.