ReseaRch Quality assuRance foR the futuRe a ... - Lund University

Panel 17 – LTH | Building
in good international journals. The other divisions have been less visible
internationally.
Productivity: The number of original articles in refereed journals was
reported to be162 in 2002–2007 for the whole department. There has
been a clearly increasing trend in publication. The number of original articles
published annually has increased from 9 (in 2002) to 43 (in 2007).
In addition, 196 conference papers, 33 book chapters, 21 books and 4
edited volumes have been published. There is no clear trend in the annual
numbers of these other publications. As a whole, the publication volume
is currently good for a department of this size. It was not possible to
determine conclusively how the publication activity was divided between
various divisions. The separate publication list, however, indicates that
the Division of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology has been productive.
The three divisions evaluated here produced 15 PhDs and 11 licentiates in
2003–2007. The amount of PhDs produced per year has increased from 1
(in 1998–2002) to 3 (in 2003–2007). Unfortunately, the percentage of new
female doctors has decreased from 20 to 13% at the same time. The amount
of licentiates has remained virtually unchanged (about 2/year) since 1998.
Relevance: Many of the topics investigated have large practical impact.
Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology have studied important environmental
and occupational health problems. Rehabilitation Engineering is
trying to create better conditions for people with disabilities. Their knowledge
has also been used in design of products and environments. The
Department is also a bridge between engineering and other subject areas
in LU. In addition, one spin-off company and as many as seven patents
were reported. Without doubt, the research activity is highly relevant.
Vitality and ability to manage research: Even the most successful division,
Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology, is quite small. In this respect,
its achievements are really respectable. Its extensive and versatile research
network is an indication of outstanding research management. They have
also been capable to refocus their research according to the changing
needs in society.
Grade: The Division of Ergonomics and Aerosol Technology belongs to
the leading research laboratories in the world. Thus, its level of research
quality is outstanding. The grade for the whole department is excellent.
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