Lund University’s Annual Academic Ceremony – celebrating research and the power of academia

On 23 January, Lund University’s Annual Academic Ceremony was celebrated with a solemn event in a fully packed University Hall in central Lund. The ceremony marks the anniversary of the University’s inauguration in 1668 and is an opportunity to recognise outstanding research, special achievements and distinguished contributions connected to the University.

Held in connection with Charles Day, the annual celebration is one of Lund University’s most important traditions and is characterised by academic pride, speeches and music. During the ceremony, individuals who have made a significant impact on the University’s activities are honoured, accompanied by performances by the Academic Chapel and the Lund Academic Choir at Odeum.

One of this year’s highlights was the conferment of the title Honorary Fellow of Lund University on HM Queen Margrethe. The title is awarded to individuals whose outstanding contributions have been of great significance to the University and to society. The Queen was honoured for her long-standing commitment to science, culture and education, as well as for the historical ties she represents between Denmark and Sweden.

During his speech, Vice-Chancellor Erik Renström emphasised the close historical ties with Denmark and the importance of collaboration. He also highlighted the need to safeguard democratic discourse and academic freedom at a time of geopolitical uncertainty and turbulence.

Medicon Village was, of course, present to take part in the celebrations and to warmly congratulate Lund University on this special anniversary. For Medicon Village, Lund University’s academic research is a vital cornerstone – not only for the Lund Innovation District as a whole, but also for Medicon Village’s continued development through the translation of research into real-world solutions and the creation of new companies.

This commitment is also reflected in the work of Medicon Village’s owner foundation, Mats Paulsson’s Foundation for Research, Innovation and Societal Development, which contributes to academic research each year through its extensive donation activities.