The prizes honour academic staff at UiO for outstanding efforts and achievements. Here are the winners in 2025.
The Research Award
Professor Carl Henrik Knutsen receives the Research Award for his work on political and economic development, regime change and democracy. He is at the international forefront of his field.
Knutsen explores major questions, such as why countries develop into democracies or dictatorships and how such regimes affect economic growth. He combines theoretical arguments with thorough empirical analyses, often based on extensive data collection.
Knutsen has built an international network and established a world-leading research environment at the University of Oslo. His results have received significant public attention and influence, including in the media and political debates.
The Education Award
Associate Professor Stian ?by Johansen receives the Education Award for his many important contributions to educational development at the Faculty of Law.
Among other things, he has shared knowledge about and facilitated the use of digital tools at the faculty. His efforts have also benefited other parts of the University of Oslo.
Johansen is not afraid to bring students to the forefront of research and expose them to the uncertainty that comes with it. He aims to foster an exploratory culture where it is acceptable to experiment – and occasionally fail – while learning along the way.
The Dissemination Award
Professor Gunnveig Gr?deland received the Dissemination Award for her efforts in explaining complex issues related to vaccines in a clear and credible way. She helps foster public trust in various vaccines.
With strong scientific expertise and grounded in her own research, she has been a prominent voice who argues against vaccine skepticism and conspiracy theories with professional integrity.
Gr?deland’s contributions have also helped authorities to implement infection control measures grounded in research.
The Innovation Award
Professor Jan Terje Andersen receives the Innovation Award for his contributions to biomedical innovation.
Since the early stages of his career, he has combined long-term, groundbreaking research with innovation work in close collaboration with industry and other stakeholders, both nationally and internationally.
This has resulted in a large portfolio of innovations with significant value in the form of improved treatment and quality of life for patients, as well as substantial cost savings for the healthcare system.
Award for Young Researchers
Professor Sirianne Dahlum receives the Award for Young Researchers for her outstanding contributions to the study of democracy.
Her research focuses on how citizens relate to political regimes and challenge their leaders through protest. It has, among other things, revealed that citizens may be more open to authoritarian forms of government than previously assumed.
Dahlum is a significant contributor to major international research projects and has published in leading journals. She has played a key role in bringing democratic backsliding onto the agenda at the University of Oslo, and frequently participates in public events and the media.
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About the University Board Awards
The University of Oslo annually acknowledges achievements in research, education, dissemination, and innovation through five awards.?
The awards aim to stimulate increased activity and inspire the academic communities at the university. Each winner receives 250,000 NOK and a work of art.