News

73 Million DKK to Improve Understanding of the Ocean's Nitrogen Cycle and Its Impact on Climate

Professor Bo Thamdrup from the Department of Biology is part of a new international research collaboration that has received approximately 73 million DKK from the EU. This project aims to investigate how large quantities of nitrogen are lost from certain low-oxygen regions in the oceans.

Microbes Feed on Iron: New Study Reveals How They Do It

Corroding microbes are a costly menace for industries relying on hidden and underground iron structures like sprinklers and oil pipelines. A recent study by researchers from the University of Southern Denmark sheds light on the mechanisms behind microbial-induced corrosion (MIC), offering insights that could help prevent damage.

Can Plants Remove Micro- and Nanoplastics from the Environment?

The ability of plants to absorb micro- and nanoplastics from the environment has long been a concern. But researchers are now asking: Why not turn this concern into an advantage? Why not cultivate plants specifically to remove plastic particles from the environment?

Aggressive dolphins attack porpoises in Danish waters

Broken bones and punctured organs: It is a violent affair when dolphins attack and kill porpoises in Denmark. SDU's biologists are monitoring whether porpoises risk being displaced by aggressive dolphins.

Primitive Oceans and Atmosphere Pulsed in Sync for 200 Million Years

Researchers have mapped out when Earth's oceans transitioned from being oxygen-free to oxygen-rich. This transition occurred over many millions of years, during which the oxygen levels in the oceans rose or fell - always in close sync with the oxygen levels in the atmosphere.

Scientists Discover Oxygen in Ocean areas where no Oxygen has Previously been Found

Oxygen is vital for most life forms. So, it draws attention when a new technique, developed at SDU, finds tiny concentrations of oxygen in the Southeast Pacific, where oxygen has never been detected before.

Anniversary as the champion of the fjords

In May, it is 25 years since Professor Mogens Flindt was employed at SDU. He originally came to Odense to teach civil engineers, but his skills in mapping the poor condition of fjords and the marine environment quickly became so sought after that he can now celebrate his anniversary as one of Denmark’s leading experts in ecology and the aquatic environment.

Data shortage makes it difficult to identify hormone-disrupting substances

A lack of data from the chemical industry in the EU makes it impossible to determine whether substances, used in consumer products, are hormone-disrupting. Researchers from DTU Food Institute and SDU recommend that the information requirements in EU legislation be updated and simultaneously suggest methods for assessing chemical substances so that available information is utilized to the fullest.

How to get EU funding? Q&A with Henrik Holbech

Why spend time applying for EU funding? We put this question to Henrik Holbech, a researcher in endocrine disruptors at the Department of Biology. He draws on five years of experience with EU applications – both as a partner in other projects and as a coordinator. Read and draw inspiration from the Q&A.

New PhD projects in SDU Climate Cluster

Public support for climate solutions, energy savings in sports facilities, more efficient PtX, increased CO2 absorption in the oceans and better utilization of land areas are the topics of the new PhD projects supported by SDU Climate Cluster.

Sex is Evolution's Greatest Success

The ability to reproduce is considered as evolution's greatest success. But why does it have to be so complicated, exhausting, and sometimes even life-threatening to reproduce? And do virgin births actually exist?

Global warming: Animals mate more in warmer weather

Do climate changes make it easier or harder for animals and plants to reproduce? There is no simple answer, but several studies suggest that animals mate more frequently in warmer weather. However, that doesn't necessarily mean they have more offspring, or that the offspring's chances of survival are good. How does that add up?

A Larger Area of Arctic Seafloor is Exposed to Sunlight

Most of the sunlight reaching the Arctic Ocean is reflected by sea ice, shielding ocean ecosystems from light. As Arctic sea ice continues to melt, larger areas of the ocean and seafloor become exposed to sunlight, potentially allowing more photosynthesis to occur and making the Arctic Ocean more productive. However, this does not seem to be occurring uniformly across the Arctic Ocean.

Elite Research Award for SDU researcher with a penchant for microbes

Amelia-Elena Rotaru, professor at the Department of Biology, SDU, is one of five young researchers of outstanding international repute to receive the prestigious Elite Research Award from the Ministry of Higher Education and Science.

Baleen whales evolved a unique larynx to communicate but cannot escape human noise

The iconic baleen whales, such as the blue, gray and humpback whale, depend on sound for communication in the vast marine environment where they live. Now researchers have for the first time found that baleen whales evolved novel structures in their larynx to make their vast array of underwater songs.

Surprising behaviour in one of the least studied mammals in the world

Beaked whales are among the least studied mammals in the world. Now, a new study reveals surprising information about the Baird's beaked whale species.

Collaboration on Odense Fjord and Fyn to Inspire Other EU Countries

Several researchers from SDU are involved in a new EU project seeking effective solutions for improving water quality and climate adaptation across Europe.

Daily singing workout keeps songbird males attractive

It has long been a mystery why songbirds spend so much time and energy on singing. Now a new study shows that songbirds need to sing every day to keep their vocal muscles in shape. Females can hear if a male has skipped his singing workout for only a few days, and they prefer song of males that did their daily vocal gymnastics.

Rocks and cliffs from land will make the oceans absorb and store large amounts of CO2

The CO2 levels in the atmosphere continue to rise as we strive to reduce our emissions. Now, an international team of researchers proposes a radical solution: pour crushed stone into the sea and it will empower the water to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere.

More seaweed on the menu in Northern Europe

Seaweed and algae are a sustainable and healthy alternative to animal foods, and there is an abundance of it in the seas around us. A new German/Danish project, led by SDU, has received ca. 14 million DKK to make consumers more interested in eating seaweed and algae and to make the products more accessible to them.

Wealthy countries' research skews our knowledge of plants

Data on the world´s plants can be found in many databases, and they are valuable for researchers trying to calculate how plants will respond to climate change. However, the world's plant data is primarily collected in and by wealthy countries, while there is a shortage of data on plants in poor and tropical parts of the world. This is a problem, biologists warn in a new study.

New study: Deep-sea pressure preserves food for microbes in the abyss

Dead algae and other organic material at the surface of the sea disintegrates when they begin to sink to the bottom. But at some point, the water pressure becomes so high that disintegration stops and nutrients are preserved, providing food for the bottom's multitude of microbes and small animals.

Evolutionary chance made this bat a specialist hunter

It is generally believed that, for millions of years, bats and the insects they hunt at night have adapted to each other in an evolutionary arms race to become better at finding or avoiding each other. Now, a new study shows that this may not be the case at all.

New Study: Young People Envision a Dystopian Future

If we are to believe high school students from Denmark, life in 2060 will be anything but safe and comfortable. In a series of short stories, two-thirds of the 152 young participants in the study paint a dystopian picture of the future.

Frodo the humpback whale goes on an adventure

A new study confirms that humpback whales most often return to the same breeding and feeding grounds on their annual migrations through the world's oceans. But then there is Frodo; he did not swim back to the same place but ended up 11,261 km away.

Marine mammals in zoos and aquariums now live 2-3 times longer than in the wild

Just as humans are now living longer lives as a result of advances in medicine and care, so too are marine mammals in modern zoos and aquariums according to a new study

New expert group to address potential threat from invasive species impacting marine ecosystems

Invasive speces - both plants and animals - can pose a serious threat to biodiversity, UN states. As a response, a group of SDU researchers now form an expert group.   

Streams and rivers get warmer in urban areas

Temperatures are generally higher in urban areas, and this also applies to the water that flows through urban areas, biologists from SDU find in a new study. "Warmer streams and rivers are never good", says head of research, Sara Egemose.

Environmental toxin PCB found in deep sea trench

Researchers on a deep-sea expedition have found PCB in sediment samples from the more than 8,000-meter-deep Atacama Trench in the Pacific Ocean. "It is thought-provoking to find man-made toxins in one of the world's most remote and inaccessible environments," says expedition leader Ronnie N. Glud.

Why do we have to keep animals in captivity?

Confined animals give us important knowledge about behavior that we can use to protect animals in the wild, says biologist Kirstin Anderson Hansen. To ensure that animals in captivity thrive, there are several things you should keep in mind, she explains.

Do animals have a sense of time?

There is a growing scientific awareness that animals may have cognitive abilities and that they are not just biological machines driven by instinct. Biologists from SDU are now investigating dolphins' and porpoises’ understanding of time.

New UN treaty on the protection of the high seas: What does it mean?

The UN has adopted a historic agreement to protect 30% of the high seas. SDU ocean expert Jamileh Javidpour recommends to first protect areas where biodiversity is most threatened; for example seamounts and migration corridors for large predators, which rely on specific routes for their annual migrations.

Toothed whales catch food in the deep using vocal fry

Toothed whales, such as dolphins, killer whales and sperm whales communicate and catch food exclusively with sound. Now researchers have for the first time found they evolved a new sound source in their nose.

Nature can help when extreme weather hits

Floods, heat waves, storms and droughts are becoming more common as temperatures rise, so we need to find new ways to protect our cities and communities. Nature itself offers many solutions, and we must learn to make better use of them, say the researchers behind a new elite center for climate research at SDU.

Animal life is getting messy

Globalization is not just for humans: animal species that have lived in isolation from each other are increasingly starting to mate and new hybrids are emerging. What are the implications for biodiversity?

When was the first time life began to predate on each other?

In the early oceans billions of years ago organisms lived peacefully side by side. Today, there are predators among us - when and how did this change happen? New research indicates that our single-celled ancestors began to feed on each other almost a billion years earlier than previously thought.

Bats growl like death metal singers and Mongolian throat singers

Bats produce an extreme range of sound frequencies far exceeding human ability. Now researchers have for the first time directly filmed how they produce their extraordinary range of sounds.

New, blue fish found in deep-sea trench

Snailfish live at the deepest parts of the ocean. Now an expedition has found a new species; it is small, blue and looks anything but a deep-sea monster.

Which animals can best withstand climate change?

A new study investigates how different mammals react to climate change. Animals that live for a long time and produce less offspring – like bears and bison - are more resilient than small animals with a short life – like mice and lemmings.

Who hear best underwater - human or seal?

We humans do better on land than under water - also when it comes to our hearing. But now a new study shows that we actually have better underwater hearing than previously thought - at certain frequencies we hear just as well as the seal.

New, healthy lakes in Denmark

Many new lakes are being established in Denmark in these years, and with that comes, of course, a desire for them to be healthy and have good water quality. SDU biologists show the way.

Will The Arctic Ocean flourish with new life when the ice melts?

The Arctic Ocean is one of the most rapidly warming regions on Earth and is headed towards being ice free in the summer. However, this provides opportunities for new ecosystems to develop, biologist Karl Attard argues.

Offspring weakens, when parents are given antibiotics

New study shows the immune system of zebrafish weakens if one parent has been exposed to antibiotics. Antibiotics can have unwanted effects for several generations, researchers discover.

Lakes are threatened by rising temperatures

Lakes in cold and temperate climates are important tools for sequestering carbon. But with rising temperatures, we are losing this tool, a new study shows. Instead, we should look for other places to store carbon, says expert.

Forget about biodiversity for the first 10-20 years

If we stop cultivating low-land fields and let nature take over, we will get more biodiversity, we often hear. Correct, says expert: but the best thing we can do for biodiversity is to harvest everything that comes up for the first 10-20 years.

Do Danish oceans release or absorb CO2?

Denmark is surrounded by seawater, which can absorb CO2 and thus reduce emissions to the atmosphere - but seawater can also release CO2. According to biologists Christian Furbo Reeder and Jakob Bang Rønning, we have no idea whether Danish waters absorb or release more CO2. So now they prepare to map CO2 emissions from Danish waters.

Finally, the eelgrass is coming back

Scientists’ effort to bring the eelgrass back to Danish waters has proven very successful: After 2 years, there are now 70 times more eelgrass shoots in Horsens Fjord in Denmark.

Do climate changes spur microbes to produce more methane?

More and more mineral particles released by climate change events (like land erosion or desertification) and anthropogenic activities (like industrial soot) are being transported worldwide. Certain microbes thrive on these particles, producing methane – a potent greenhouse gas. A new project aims to understand how microorganisms interact via mineral particles and how these interactions may affect the methane cycle.

“There hasn’t really been much interest in the dead”

Our oceans are filled with tiny, dead animals and jellyfish. But that is not bad news: without all these carcasses, the planet would not be a very nice place to live on, scientists are discovering. As all these carcasses seem to play an important role in the transportation and recycling of carbon and nitrogen on our planet.

Put a gecko-inspired robot on the teachers’ heels: More lively lectures

Lizards like geckos and agamas have inspired scientists to develop a new robot-controlled camera that can make streamed lectures less dull.

Microbes produce oxygen in the dark

There would be no oxygen on Earth were it not for sunlight; the key component in photosynthesis. Now researchers have made the surprising discovery that oxygen is also produced without sunlight, possibly deep below the ocean surface.

Hadal trenches continue to surprise researchers

New study reveals certain bacteria, that are attracted to nitrogen, have relatively easily adapted to the extreme pressure 10 km below sea level.

Porpoises seem to cooperate in sophisticated group hunting

Drone footage shows that porpoises may be more social and cooperative than previously thought.

Face masks are a ticking plastic bomb

Every minute of the day we throw away 3 million face masks. Many end up as potentially toxic micro- and nanoplastic or carriers for other toxicants in the environment, researchers warn.

Frogs’ lungs help them find a mate

Male frogs call to attract females, but how can females tell that it is a male of the same species calling? Green tree frogs use the same principle as in noise-cancelling headphones – and they are far better at it.

Heavy rain after drought may cause fish kills

Due to climate changes, many regions are experiencing increasingly warmer and dryer summers, followed by heavy rain. New study shows this is a fatal combination that can cause massive fish kills in lakes within a few hours.

Jellyfish contain no calories, but they still attract predators

New study shows that jellyfish are an important food source for many animals. As jellyfish blooms become more frequent and more massive, this could affect marine ecosystems.

New website provides overview of endocrine disruptors in the EU

Five countries, including Denmark, have teamed up to make a list of endocrine disruptors, hoping it will pave the way for tighter EU regulations.

Older fathers increase the risk of mental illness

New research finds that the age of fathers at the time of conception has an impact on children's risk of becoming mentally ill. The older fathers, the higher the risk.

Cannibalism helps invading invertebrates survive severe conditions

Investing in the future: Researchers show how cannibalism among the invasive comb jelly enables adults to survive severe conditions at the edge of their ecological range with implications for the use and evolutionary origins of cannibalism.

Sea wrack on the beach: Disgusting or valuable?

Insulation, fertilizer and animal feed: For centuries, humans have been using sea wrack and washed-up eelgrass on the beach in a myriad of ways that also make sense today, scientists say and call for better utilisation.

Surprising hearing talents in cormorants

The great cormorant has more sensitive hearing under water than in air. This new knowledge may help protect vulnerable bird species.

Female lifespan is longer in wild mammal animals than in humans

Longer lives are not only for female humans: Mammalian female’s average lifespan is 18.6% longer than that of males. In humans the female advantage is on average 7.8%

Citizens contribute to biology research

In recent years, Citizen Science, where citizens contribute to researchers' data gathering, has gained a foothold in the research environments. According to Associate Professor Sara Egemose, this is partly due to the synergy that arises when both researchers and citizens experience clear benefits from collaboration.

US Navy supports Danish research into porpoise hearing

Studies of porpoises’ and dolphins' ability to navigate at sea may lead to the development of new advanced equipment for underwater locating of submarines, mines and drowned persons.

Parrots collaborate with invisible partners

New study shows that peach-fronted conures have a surprisingly advanced talent for collaboration when it comes to finding food. This is important knowledge for biologists working with conservation of wild bird populations.

Opening for Bookings for 2025

The new season for 2025 will open for bookings on 15 November 2024.

Vejle becomes a university city: SDU is establishing a campus focusing on IT and STEM programmes

The ambitions have been present since 2021 and now they are becoming a reality. The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) can now announce its historic decision to establish a new campus in Vejle, dedicated to IT and STEM education, with support from the LEGO Group and Vejle Municipality.

MedTech partnership unites research and technology to shape the future of patient care 

A new strategic partnership between the University of Southern Denmark (SDU), the Region of Southern Denmark and Odense Municipality will provide the framework for future technological healthcare solutions for patients throughout Denmark. 

We’re travelling green 2024

Departments and offices at SDU Odense are invited to participate in Odense Municipality’s annual campaign focusing on green and active transport habits at workplaces in Odense. SDU is one of the nine founding members of the Odense Climate Partnership, so all interested parties are invited to participate.

Next Step in the Transformation of SDU's Study Administration

SDU is now taking a further step in the transformation of its study administration.

Information about the Workplace Assessment and Well-Being Survey 2024

An introductory question about nationality has been removed from the Workplace Assessment and Well-Being Survey.

News about working time registration at SDU

The pilot project for selected TAPs at TEK and SDU HR started on October 7 and is expected to end mid-November. After the pilot project, it is expected that the rest of the target group (except TAP who register flex time in Buanco) will be able to register in mTIME - see target group below.

This year’s SDU elections will be held on 25–28 November

This year, the elections will include choosing TAP representatives to the University Council and student representatives to SDU’s Board. All staff and students can run for election and have a direct impact!

New education quality policy on the way

From quality control to quality culture

The Workplace Assessment and Well-Being Survey 2024 starts now

On 8 October, employees covered by the collective workplace assessment and well-being survey will receive an email from Ramboll with a link to SDU’s Workplace Assessment and Well-Being Survey 2024.

SDU conducts another phishing campaign

Once again, it is time again to test our ability to spot fraudulent emails.

SDU's Workplace Assessment and Well-being Survey 2024 is approaching

Who is better suited to assess the working environment than the employees themselves?

Price adjustments in the canteen in Odense and Copenhagen

According to the contract with SDU, the annual price adjustment will take place from Monday 16 September 2024.

Applications about to open for skills development funding

On Tuesday 24 September 2024 at 10:00 am, new funds will be added to the State Competence Fund pools and applications will be open. You can write your application now, provided that your manager does not approve your application in the system until your pool is open.

Holiday requests

It is now time to start planning and announcing leave in the holiday year 2024/2025, where holiday must be taken during the period from 1 September 2024 to 31 December 2025 (the holiday entitlement period).

Working time registration

SDU is working together with the other universities to determine the framework for recording working hours.

Closure of car parks

Car parks will be closed in connection with the Semester Start Party. Are you travelling to SDU Odense by car? Then you’ll probably need to spend a little extra time parking over the next few weeks.

Great interest in SDU’s programmes

Preliminary figures show a high level of interest in applying to SDU’s offered programmes.

SDU’s Climate Plan 2.0 on the way

The Board has set the level of ambition in a new climate plan, and the Rectorate is now initiating the process of preparing a replacement for the current plan, which expires at the end of the year. A draft climate plan 2025–2027 with concrete initiatives will be discussed at the board meeting in December.

SDU must take a curious, bold and critical approach to generative AI

The potentials are great and the challenges considerable in the work of disseminating generative AI at SDU. Below, University Director Thomas Buchvald Vind gives us his and the Rectorate’s take on how the University can grasp the potentials and address the challenges.

News about registration of working hours from 1 July 2024

The rules require employers to introduce a working time registration system that makes it possible to measure the daily working time for the individual employee. Over the summer, SDU will clarify how the new rules are to be implemented in the organisation.

Summer holiday closings in the Central Administration

Several departments in the Central Administration are either closed or have reduced staffing during the summer holidays. Extended response times should therefore be expected when contacting the individual units. For Technical Services, there are a number of practical changes regarding operations.

SDU IT wish you a safe and enjoyable summer

Dear colleague, The summer holidays are approaching fast and as you may be planning to travel abroad during the holiday period, we would like to remind you of the importance of safe digital behaviour, especially when using your SDU computer. We want to ensure that your data and personal information remain protected wherever you are.

Massive interest in responding to consultation on education quality policies

Here are some insights into the feedback

Background check of prospective employees

According to the URIS guidelines, SDU and the other Danish universities are obliged to have procedures in place for carrying out screenings and thorough background checks on people who have applied for a position at the university.

From Student Services to SDU Education

During the spring of 2024, Student Services has undergone an organisational change that will support greater academic cohesion and ensure the right foundation for its work with SDU’s strategic priorities.

Hanne Søndergaard Birkmose becomes Dean of SAMF

After acting in the position as Dean of the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences since 10 April, Hanne Søndergaard Birkmose has been confirmed in the post.

Introduction to the project supplement

Universities Denmark and six private research funding foundations are now ready with a guide to the introduction of project supplements in grants for financing the universities’ expenses in research projects.

Climate Thursdays 2024

Climate Thursdays are a series of online lectures – free of charge.

Elections for the Occupational Health and Safety Organisation at SDU

Following the implementation of a new local agreement regarding the organisation of occupational health and safety work at SDU, elections are now being called for the occupational health and safety organisation.

Contribute to creating a University with more biodiversity

In the coming months, a new initiative will collect and process proposals to increase biodiversity on the University of Southern Denmark’s campuses. The management will select and prioritise initiatives among the proposals. Both students and staff can now submit proposals.

Eulogy for Miguel Malek Maalouf

It is with great sadness that we announce that our colleague Miguel Malek Maalouf passed away on 2 June 2024

SDU Reuses – Campaign for Circular Consumption

During the summer of 2024, SDU will conduct a pilot project aimed at identifying items that could potentially find new life elsewhere, preferably within campus.

Status on the implementation of SDU’s new strategy

In June 2023, SDU’s Board approved a new strategy that details how the University will tackle the challenges and seize the great opportunities that lie ahead until 2030. Almost a year after its approval, the Rectorate’s Newsletter has talked to Rector Jens Ringsmose about the implementation of SDU’s new strategy.

Guide for settling flexitime on General Prayer Day

Here is a little guide for adjusting flexitime on General Prayer Day. If you have already tried to correct your flex in relation to the General Prayer Day, please check again according to the instructions below. If you need help, please contact the person responsible for holiday planning in your unit.

The SDUx experiment comes to an end

Eighteen months ago, SDU’s management decided to try an experiment in developing new forms of further and continuing education under the name SDUx. The experiment is now coming to an end and the knowledge gained will be incorporated into the University’s work with ‘lifelong learning’.

New rules for registering working hours are coming to SDU

The new EU Working Time Directive requires all public and private employers in Denmark to register employees’ working hours. Its purpose is to safeguard employees’ rights, health and well-being in the workplace. The law comes into force on 1 July this year, and universities are currently working to find the most pragmatic and user-friendly solutions.

New local agreement on health and safety work at SDU

New framework at SDU for how health and safety work is organised. Now it is time to put the framework into practice – the elections for the health and safety organisation take place in June.

SDU IT and SDU Digital join forces

The University Director has decided that SDU IT and SDU Digital will be merged into a joint area in the Central Administration as of 1 June 2024. Going forward, SDU Digital’s current Head of Division, Bue Raun Andersen, will serve as head of division for the new digital area. In the months ahead, he will enter into dialogue with managers and employees in SDU IT and SDU Digital with a view to shaping the new organisation.

Follow-up to the spring phishing campaign

This spring, SDU has conducted another phishing campaign, this time with a new approach.

New education quality policy goes out for consultation

Please take a minute to read the proposed policy and take the chance to submit comments.

SDU IT will be out of the office

Wednesday, May 15, and Thursday, May 16, 2024

Help for you who are new to EU funding

Get a quick overview and new knowledge in your search for funding.

Service and Logistics is away on Wednesday 22 and Thursday 23 May 2024

There will therefore be changes in daily operations in Service and Logistics on those days

Quota 2 admission process will change from 2025

From 2025, a number of initiatives will be introduced into the admission process to SDU’s programmes via the quota 2 system. This has been decided by the Executive Board, and the changes are being implemented to ensure that students have the necessary academic skills and motivation to complete a university education.

OUH and SDU have embarked on an even closer collaboration

A good healthcare system requires perspectives from all university disciplines.

Possible changes within SDU’s digital organisation

Jacob-Steen Madsen, head of SDU IT, has accepted a new job as manager of DKCERT. The University Director is therefore considering the overall organisation of SDU’s digital organisation, which consists of SDU IT and SDU Digital.

Eulogy for Kimmo Herttua

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our esteemed colleague Kimmo Jouko Kaarel Herttua on April 21, 2024.

SDU launches new programmes in Quantum Computing and Psychology

Syddansk Universitet (SDU) has received approval from the Ministry of Higher Education and Science to offer new programs in Quantum Computing and Psychology. The Quantum Computing master’s program will be the first of its kind in Denmark.

Political agreement on sector dimensioning

On 19 April, the Danish government (the Social Democrats, Venstre – The Liberal Party of Denmark and the Moderates) as well as the Green Left, Danish Democrats, Liberal Alliance and the Conservative People’s Party entered into a political agreement on the sectoral dimensioning of undergraduate programmes.

Eulogy for Peter Sudhölter

With great sadness we announce that our esteemed colleague Peter Sudhölter passed away on April 2, 2024.

Visit Festival of Reasearch 2024 at SDU in week 16-17

Research Day is the perfect opportunity to show off your university to friends and family and dive into some of the exciting things happening on campus!

CBS recruits new president from SDU

Peter Møllgaard has been appointed as the new President of Copenhagen Business School (CBS). He has served as Dean of the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences at SDU since 1 June 2022.

SDU Research Academy – What is it and what does it do? 

Assistant professors and recently appointed associate professors at the University of Southern Denmark will most likely be able to join the SDU Research Academy programme from the autumn of 2024, a pilot programme which aims to implement the support for SDU researchers more naturally in their everyday work, and it has got off to a good start.

Have you used a supercomputer today?

Supercomputers are ready to boost your research both here at SDU and at a number of other Danish universities. But what difference can supercomputers make? This was the focus when the Danish e-infrastructure Consortium (DeiC) visited SDU.

More applicants to SDU’s programmes via quota 2

The figures for this year’s applications to higher education programmes via quota 2 have been published. At the University of Southern Denmark, a positive increase can be seen for the second year in a row.

SDU IT is changing service management solution

Monday, March 18 2024, SDU IT will launch Freshservice

Abolition of Store Bededag as a public holiday (updated)

In connection with the collective bargaining negotiations in the state sector, it has been agreed that compensation for the removal of Store Bededag as a public holiday will be included in the special holiday allowance

New HEALTH officially opened

Spring was in the air and in many of the speeches when New HEALTH – SDU’s new Faculty of Health Sciences – was inaugurated on 1 March 2024.

Call for requests for placement of special vacation days

Call for requests for placement of special vacation days will be taking place in the following weeks.

Office for All - Learn When You Need It!

Are your Microsoft Office skills a bit rusty, or have you never really delved into the possibilities of the tools? Now there is help to be found on SDUnet.dk.

New service solution hitting a computer near you soon!

SDU IT, are in the process of transitioning to a new service management solution

SDU conducts another phishing campaign

At SDU, we continue to work to increase information security. This is done, among other things, by conducting campaigns with simulated phishing.

New vision for DIAS has been approved

In a recently approved vision for ’Dias 3.0’, director Sten Rynning describes the route to a DIAS with significant changes, closer ties to SDU and greater visibility regarding the elitist ambition that is inherent in DIAS.

New internationalisation project in the pipeline

An overall strategic effort to recruit the most talented international students is about to be implemented at the University following its approval by the Executive Board.

The greatest names in jazz are hanging out the basement at SDU

At least in the form of unique audio recordings, photos and other exceptional items. The jazz collections at the University Library of Southern Denmark are known worldwide as a true treasure trove of jazz history. We visited in honour of the collection’s contribution to a new, completely sold-out jazz release.

Prevention of theft at Nyt SUND

As one of several initiatives launched to prevent further thefts, initiatives will now be taken to reset and re-deliver keys to employees at Nyt SUND.

Information about SDU’s warehouse and logistics

Please be aware that Technical Services’ warehouse and logistics department is currently facing staffing challenges.

Community singing at SDU Odense

Come and sing the day in with colleagues and students at SDU. Everyone is welcome!

Which centre will be appointed SDU and OUH’s next flagship centre?

Now begins the process of finding the next joint SDU-OUH flagship centre, which will be named at the end of 2024.

Thefts on Nyt SUND

Unfortunately, there have been several thefts at Nyt SUND recently.

Abolition of Store Bededag as a public holiday

On February 28, 2023, the Act on the consequences of abolishing Store Bededag as a public holiday (Act no. 214 of 06/03/2023) was passed by a majority vote in the Danish Parliament.

2024 to bring continuous improvement

This year, the work on SDU’s simplification model is to be accelerated. The purpose of the model is to free up time and resources for research and teaching by looking at the workflows of administrative tasks.

SDUx goes live

SDU’s new investment in lifelong learning in collaboration with the business community launches in February with a completely sold-out course on artificial intelligence.

New PET campaign to focus on security in research

How do we best protect Danish research from the serious security, financial and ethical consequences that can arise in international collaborations? A new campaign spotlights this issue.

Intelligent Exercise

Get off to a strong start in 2024 with easy exercises you can do in the office or in front of your computer.

Consultancy from SDU HR, Work Environment & Development becomes free of charge

As from 1 January 2024, managers and units at SDU can request consultancy from SDU HR, Work Environment & Development free of charge. The new framework for consultancy has been introduced to reduce the University’s administration.

Henrik Bindslev continues as Dean of TEK

In the years to come, Henrik Bindslev will continue to serve as the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering (TEK) at the University of Southern Denmark. A unanimous employment committee has reappointed the seasoned force to be reckoned with in management and research, much to the delight of SDU and Henrik Bindslev himself.

The ESDH team is now part of SDU Digital

The ESDH team, with Gitte Brobyskov and Maja Skov, has moved from SDU HR to SDU Digital as of 1st January. As of now, Thomas Friis Gjesing, programme manager for ‘Fremtidens ESDH’, will also be head of the team.

Longer Response Times in the Servicedesk

Due to exam-related tasks

Graphic and language services become free of charge

From 1 January 2024, employees at SDU can order graphic design and printing free of charge. The same applies to linguistic assistance from SDU’s Language Services Unit. The new procedure has been introduced to reduce the administrative work at the University.

SDU has entered into an agreement with Falck on psychological counselling

Effective from 1 January 2024, SDU has entered into an agreement with Falck on psychological counselling for employees at SDU.

OUH and SDU add new layers to their collaboration

With a new joint vision, SDU and OUH will address several of society's major challenges through new knowledge, innovative methods and strong proposals for the technological solutions of the future.

Changed opening hours between Christmas and New Year

All our service desks are closed between Christmas and New Year.

SDU employees are flying significantly less

New data from the University of Southern Denmark shows that compared to the years before the Coronavirus pandemic, employees’ total CO2e emissions from air travel have been significantly reduced. From having emitted 3,645,000 kg CO2e in 2019, the figure in 2023 is currently at 1,303,000 kg CO2e.

Visit from IGAB

At the end of November, the University of Southern Denmark was visited by SDU’s International Gender Advisory Board (IGAB), which over two days provided SDU with constructive recommendations and reflections in relation to the strategic diversity, inclusion and gender equality work that takes place at the University.

SDU’s Research Support Hub: An easier gateway to overview, funding, and support

A new shared tool at sdunet.dk will make it easier to explore funding opportunities, find relevant colleagues and research support across SDU, and make application processes simpler and more transparent for the researchers, research group leaders, and research support units.

New organisational changes in the name of sustainability

In June 2023, SDU’s Board adopted the University’s new strategy. The new strategy calls for organisational changes regarding the University’s sustainability work.

SDU strengthens the Triangle Region

Tailwind for SDU’s ambitions to build the future’s research and education environment in IT and engineering in the Triangle Region.

Change of SDU UP’s organisational structure as of 1 January 2024

SDU UP (SDU Centre for Teaching and Learning) supports the development of teaching, learning and testing methods, including e-learning and digital exams. SDU UP is currently organisationally anchored at the Faculty of Humanities.

Copilot chat is now available to all employees at SDU

SDU now makes the Copilot chatbot available to all employees at SDU. This is a good opportunity to test AI technology on your own tasks. However, users must be aware of the security limitations and pitfalls.

New Deputy Director of Studies at SDU

As of 1 January 2024, Stinne Hørup Hansen will be the new Deputy Director of Studies at SDU. A strong asset and a good starting point for the major changes we are facing in the field of education.

First steps taken towards new Green Lab Network

On Wednesday 4 October, the University of Southern Denmark, Green Lab, Danish Life Science Cluster and Life Science Fyn held the ‘Sustainable Life Science – Laboratories under the Microscope’ conference.

Respect for different opinions and respectful tone of communication at Danish universities

Announcement from SDU's management.

SDU discontinues activities in Slagelse

Unfortunately, it was not possible to reach an agreement that could have led to Roskilde University taking over SDU Slagelse. Subsequently, SDU has been working on alternative solutions, but without finding a sustainable alternative. SDU has therefore decided to discontinue its activities in West Zealand.

Temperature restriction removed at SDU

This coming winter, temperatures will no longer be restricted to a maximum of 19 degrees at SDU’s locations – but you are still encouraged to think before turning up the thermostat.

Vacation Fund Opens on December 1st for Bookings for the High Season 2024 - Important Information about the Lottery

We hope that you've all had a wonderful holiday throughout the year and are ready to look forward to the high season in 2024. We have exciting news to share with you regarding bookings and a change in our allocation system for holiday homes.

New agreement between foundations and universities will strengthen research

Danish Universities and six private research foundations have reached a consensus on an agreement for a model for the foundations’ coverage of the costs of research projects at the universities.

Freedom of expression and respect for diversity

SDU upholds freedom of expression and the right of individuals to use it. In addition to being a fundamental right in a democracy, freedom of expression is also crucial for the functioning of a university. Freedom of expression is inextricably linked to academic freedom and freedom of research.

New smoking policy adopted at the University of Southern Denmark

New principles regarding smoking and tobacco use on the University of Southern Denmark’s premises have been approved and adopted by the Rectorate, and smoking cessation courses are being offered to employees who want help to quit.

Follow-up on phishing campaign – with high praise for all

Once again this autumn, SDU carried out a phishing campaign in which a fake email was sent out with the aim of getting employees to provide their login details.

Remember the used goods exchange

Are you in need of a new office chair or other office supplies for your daily work? Then you should check SDU's second-hand goods exchange, where there may be just what you are looking for.

New study administrative system

Along with six other universities in the New SIS Programme alliance, SDU has just signed an agreement on the construction of a new student information system (SIS). After a long tendering process and a document that has been awaiting approval from the Danish Parliament’s Finance Committee, work can now begin with the winning supplier – Fluido.

Joint purchases of office supplies for SDU’s central warehouse have considerably reduced Lyreco orders

An internal optimisation of the logistics involved in ordering office supplies has contributed to SDU significantly reducing the amount of small orders to Lyreco. The initiative has resulted in a smaller CO2 footprint by means of fewer journeys and less packaging, and the initiative is set to continue.

SDU and OUH are strengthening their strategic collaboration

The University and Odense University Hospital are working on a common vision for a broad strategic collaboration. In this context, a joint unit has now been set up to support the collaboration.

SDU’s Climate Accounts 2018–2022 show an overall decrease in CO2 emissions

The management has presented the climate accounts for 2018–2022 to the University’s Board. The accounts show an overall decrease in SDU’s CO2 emissions since 2018, but some effort is still needed if the goal of a 57% reduction is to be achieved by 2030.

The implementation of the URIS recommendations gets another boost

With the appointment of Mads Niemann-Christensen as head of security, the implementation of the URIS recommendations gets a boost. The recommendations were issued by the Ministry of Higher Education and Science and are intended to ensure various aspects of business-critical security.

Generative AI is moving into university education programmes

In April 2023, the Council for Education decided to create a cross-cutting effort for generative AI at SDU.

Well-being – a joint effort

Students and staff are invited to participate in this year’s well-being event October 31

EPICUR alliance to increase internationalisation at SDU

EPICUR is the name of the European University Alliance, which the University of Southern Denmark joined in 2021. Not everyone is aware of the alliance and the opportunities it offers you as a lecturer, researcher or student. In the following, Rector Jens Ringsmose elaborates on the collaboration and the perspectives SDU sees in the EPICUR alliance.

Seek funding for skills development

On Tuesday 3 October 2023 at 10:00 a.m., funds will be added to all the pools of the State Sector Competence Fund, and it is again possible to seek funding for skills development.

Community singing at SDU Odense, 10th November and 8th December

Come and sing the day in with fellow students, researchers, lecturers and other employees at SDU. Everyone is welcome!

Take your colleagues on a discovery journey

Are you curious about what lies behind the doors of the new HEALTH building? Now is your chance to get closer and experience it for yourself. We invite you and your colleagues to an exciting semi-guided tour of the brand-new building.

SDU and RUC discontinue negotiations

More than six months of investigations, which were supposed to lead to Roskilde University taking over Campus Slagelse from the University of Southern Denmark, have unfortunately ended without a mutual agreement.

We’re travelling GREEN 2023

Departments and offices at SDU Odense are hereby invited to participate in Odense Municipality’s annual campaign focusing on green and active transport habits at workplaces in Odense. Because SDU is one of the nine founding members of the Odense Climate Partnership, all interested parties are invited to participate.

Education vision set to strengthen the Triangle Region

SDU’s vision of helping to build a future research and education environment in the fields of IT and engineering in the Triangle Region, one of the country’s key industrial regions, is alive and well.

The keys to New SUND have officially been handed over to SDU

On Friday 1 September, the University of Southern Denmark signed an agreement signalling that the new building housing the Faculty of Health Sciences has now been formally handed over to SDU.

SDU is launching a new phishing campaign

SDU is continuing its training in good information security, and once again a phishing campaign is to be launched.

Holiday requests

It is now time to start planning and announcing leave in the holiday year 2023/2024, where holiday must be taken during the period from 1 September 2023 to 31 December 2024 (the holiday entitlement period).

SDU’s new ESDH system, WorkZone, goes live in March 2024

Until now, the ESDH of the Future programme had aimed to put WorkZone into service on 1 December 2023. However, with a new anticipated operational date of 4 March 2024, a smoother transition from the current ESDH system, Acadre, to WorkZone is ensured.

Do you want an update on climate change?

Then sign up for the free online webinar series Climate Thursdays

Come to the opening of the new tram stop and see Nyt SUND

On Friday 25 August at 12 noon, the new tram stop 'SDU Syd/Hospital Nord' will be inaugurated. The opening also marks the opening of the teaching facilities at Nyt SUND on Monday 28 August.

Follow-up on the analysis of the Study Administration – new Deputy Director of Studies

As a follow-up to the analysis of the Study Administration, the Rectorate has decided to create a new position as Deputy Director of Studies. The position will be advertised in September and the new Deputy Director is expected to start on 1 January 2024.

Car parks will be closed in connection with the Semester Start Party

Are you travelling to SDU Odense by car? Then you’ll probably need to spend a little extra time parking over the next few weeks.

27 September to be national Uniform at Work Day

To honour and pay tribute to military reservists and volunteers in Denmark’s overall defence and emergency readiness (the so-called total-defence concept), a national uniform day is to be held on 27 September. The University of Southern Denmark supports the initiative, and everyone is welcome to show up in uniform on the day.

Changed procedure for work anniversary celebrations at SDU

Now, anniversaries will officially be marked with a joint reception when employees have been at SDU for 25, 40 and 50 years. Previously, the joint reception was held on anniversaries of state employment.

Welcome to 4,635 new SDU students

At midnight, 4,635 prospective students received offers of places on SDU’s bachelor programmes. This is an increase of 7% on the previous year.

SDU appoints two new board members

Former Minister and Member of the Danish Parliament Ulla Tørnæs and Troels Petersen, Senior Vice President at Danfoss, are set to join SDU’s Board of Directors on 1 October 2023.

Summer greetings from the Rectorate

We wish everyone at SDU a great summer of relaxation, paperback novels and the opportunity to recharge your batteries.

New model for future undergraduate intake

A new admissions model will ensure that prospective students have the necessary qualities to complete a university education.

Summer staffing in the Central Administration

Several departments in the Central Administration will either be closed or operate with reduced staffing over the summer. Extended response times should therefore be expected when contacting the individual departments.

Political agreement on new master’s degree reform

On 27 June, the Danish Government (Social Democrats, Venstre and Moderaterne) and SF, Danmarksdemokraterne, Liberal Alliance and the Conservative People’s Party signed a political framework agreement on the reform of master’s degree programmes.

SDU IT wish you a safe and enjoyable summer

Dear colleague, The summer holidays are approaching fast and as you may be planning to travel abroad during the holiday period, we would like to remind you of the importance of safe digital behaviour, especially when using your SDU computer. We want to ensure that your data and personal information remain protected wherever you are.

The University of Southern Denmark adopts new strategy

The Board of SDU has just approved a new strategy that details how the University will tackle the major challenges and seize the great opportunities that lie ahead towards 2030.

Sten Rynning to be the new director of the Danish Institute for Advanced Study

SDU’s rector, Jens Ringsmose, has appointed professor of political science Sten Rynning as the new director of the University of Southern Denmark’s interdisciplinary elite research centre, DIAS.

SDU Digital gets new services page

After months of work and an intense final spurt, SDU Digital recently launched its new services page.

Result of the adjustment process

On 23 March, we reported that SDU’s finances are under pressure due to declining educational revenues and price increases, and that management had decided to adjust the University’s finances. We are pleased to announce that the adjustment process is now complete. Below you can read about the outcome of the process, an evaluation of the process and a thank you to everyone for their efforts.

The canteen is short of their cutlery and crockery in general

The canteen is generally short of crockery and cutlery, so make sure it is returned to the collection trolleys – and doesn’t end up in lunch rooms around the University.

The Art Association invites you to a pop-up event

SDU’s Art Association invites all staff and students to the Winter Garden on 31 May to view and talk about art.

Student well-being is improving

This year's results from the Study Environment Survey (SMU) are in, and there is a marked improvement in the well-being of SDU students compared to the last survey in 2021, which is thought to have been affected by the coronavirus lockdown.

Phishing campaign – Did you click too?

In March 2023, SDU conducted a phishing campaign.

Now you can charge your electric car in Odense

At SDU in Odense, staff, students and visitors can now charge their electric or hybrid car while at the University. Four cars can be charged at a time.

Adjusted timetable for the transfer of the Slagelse campus

SDU and RUC are now working towards a transfer date for the educational and research activities in Slagelse on 1 September 2024 instead of at the turn of the year.

Discontinuation of education programmes

SDU’s efforts to balance the economy means that a number of education programmes at two of the University’s faculties will be discontinued.

Mobile phones included in annual siren test

Here's how to respond to the important warning

The canteen in Odense is closed today due to a strike - opens again on Friday

The canteen staff in Odense are on strike and have ceased work on 27 April. Therefore, the canteen is closed today.

Financial adjustment: Result of the remediation phase

SDU’s management has decided on voluntary agreements and other mitigation measures to reduce the number of unsolicited redundancies. Unfortunately, unsolicited redundancies are necessary to ensure a sustainable economy.

SDU has signed a contract with KMD for a new ESDH system

The new system will contribute to efficient and cohesive workflows and can help to automate processes

Use corridor names when giving directions

Technical Services’ project on signage and directions at Campus Odense has been completed. The aim of the project was to make the signage at entrances and corridors clearer to make it easier to find your way around Campus Odense.

SDU Staff Courses autumn 2023

The selection of autumn courses is now available. Explore and be inspired by our wide range of courses, seminars, workshops and networks at SDU.

No more TikTok on SDU equipment

SDU is to follow the recommendation from the Danish Centre for Cyber Security not to use the TikTok app on official devices. SDU staff must therefore remove TikTok from the University’s mobile phones, tablets and computers.

An outstanding first year

SDU Takeover is looking for more student teachers

Psychology – West Jutland style: SDU and Education Esbjerg in groundbreaking collaboration on new psychology programme in Esbjerg

SDU will open a new bachelor and master’s degree programme in psychology at SDU Esbjerg. The aim is to create 75 new study places by 2025. There will be a total of 350 students when the programme is up and running.

Appraisal interviews (LUS, GRUS, MUS) at SDU

SDU has produced new generic material for appraisal interviews.

Information about the financial situation of the University

On the basis of an overall assessment, the management of SDU has decided to make new adjustments to the University’s finances.

SDU’s new elite centres will help solve climate challenges

The first two of a total of five elite centres have been designated at the SDU Climate Cluster. The two new research centres focus on nature-based solutions and solar energy, respectively. The remaining three centres will be designated this summer.

The Government’s education proposal

On 2 March, the SVM government launched the proposal Prepared for the Future I, of which the reduction in the length of master’s programmes is an important element.

A new educational chapter is being written in Slagelse

Roskilde University and the University of Southern Denmark have signed a letter of intent to pave the way for Roskilde University to take over the University of Southern Denmark’s educational activities in Slagelse at the end of the year.

SDU is investing in lifelong learning in the Triangle Region

With SDUx Vejle, the University of Southern Denmark, Vejle Municipality and DANDY Business Park will develop a laboratory for lifelong learning that can provide research-based continuing and further education and ensure strong cohesion between the university and the labour market.

SDU launches phishing campaign

As part of SDU's ongoing information security training, a phishing campaign will take place this spring.

The analysis of the study administration is now public

Carve’s analysis of SDU’s study administration is complete and is available at sdunet.dk. The upcoming months will be spent discussing the material before the Executive Board makes a decision on the recommendations in the second quarter.

Meet the new climate minister at SDU

Minister for Climate, Energy and Utilities visits SDU's students.

Waste bins to be removed from offices and classrooms

Due to the new waste stations at SDU in Odense, all small bins from offices and classrooms will be removed from the main campus during January. In staff kitchens and kitchenettes, multiple waste fractions will be installed at the same time, allowing all of us to help sort waste correctly.

Strategy process has begun at SDU

The Board of SDU has asked the University’s management to initiate a process seeking to renew SDU’s strategic basis. This week, the process kicked off with deliberations in both the University Council and the Main Co-operation Committee.

Arctic and climate seminar at SDU Odense

SDU Arctic and SDU Climate Cluster invites all interested parties to the seminar “Finding interdisciplinary solutions to common challenges” on 2 February.

Søren Vilby is the new Chair of the Board at SDU

The 57-year-old businessman Søren Vilby is to become the new Chair of the Board at the University of Southern Denmark and will lead the University’s strategic work for the next four years.

SDU’s promotion programme has come into effect

SDU wants to attract, retain and develop academic talent so that SDU can fulfil its core tasks in research, teaching and dissemination. The promotion programme, which came into effect on 1 January 2023, is one possible career path in the transition from associate professor to professor.

Price adjustments for Graphic Center’s printing services

As of 1 January 2023, the prices for the Graphic Center’s printing services have been adjusted due to raw material price hikes on the world market.

Season’s greetings from the Rectorate of SDU

We wish everyone at SDU a Merry Christmas and a cheerful and relaxing holiday season.

New travel policy set to cut SDU’s carbon footprint

The Executive Board of the University of Southern Denmark has approved a new travel policy for SDU employees, who are called upon to limit work-related trips in general and specifically the number of flights in order to achieve the University’s goal of a significant reduction in CO2 emissions.

The University’s finances are under pressure

The 2023 budget has now been adopted by the Board of SDU, which also supports the management’s measures to ensure that the University’s finances remain robust.

Reduced December staffing in the Central Administration

Several departments in the Central Administration will either be closed or have reduced staffing between Christmas and New Year. Extended response times should therefore be expected when contacting the individual departments.

Sync of your private OneDrive to SDU computers will be deactivated

OneDrive is available in two different versions.

Do you want to be a climate ambassador at SDU?

Would you like to help create changes at SDU and help turn the university into a low-emission university? Read more here and sign up for the new climate ambassador course.

SDU Employee Courses Spring 2023

Be inspired by our varied range of courses and webinars.

Corridors of New SUND named

From Skoven over Tveden to Forten. The corridors at New SUND are named after the natural surroundings and cultural history.

Technical/administrative staff enthusiastic about project management course

Project development and project management were on the agenda when about 20 participants from faculties and the Central Administration met up on 29 November – 1 December at the top floor of Campus Kollegiet for a course on project management for technical/administrative staff.

SDU and OUH launch new flagship centres

Odense University Hospital (OUH) and the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) are launching a new joint initiative, ‘Flagship Centres between OUH and SDU’, which focuses on high-quality research in an equal collaboration between researchers from OUH and SDU. The flagship centres replace what was previously known as elite research centres at OUH.

Technical Services, Building Maintenance and Service and Logistics will be on a staff trip on Thursday 24 November 2022

Daily operations in Service and Logistics will be affected as follows:

Hitting 19 degrees: How to set your thermostat correctly in your office

It’s a good idea to check that the thermostat in your office or workspace is set correctly for a room temperature of 19 degrees, which SDU has decided on where possible.

Library relocation in Kolding: UC SYD and SDU continue cooperation

Good neighbourliness is important on many fronts. This is why UC SYD and SDU have given high priority to close cooperation in recent years – first with the relocation to Esbjerg a few years ago and this year with the new joint address at Universitetsparken, Kolding.

National negotiations on Springer Nature winter 2022

The prices of electronic resources are increasing significantly in these years. At the moment, negotiations are underway with Springer Nature, which is one of the largest players on the market, and this could have consequences for researchers and students at SDU.

A healthy and safe work and study environment free of offensive behaviour

New portal conveys SDU values for behaviour and brings together knowledge, inspiration and tools to prevent and deal with offensive behaviour.

Book the holiday home for your 2023 holiday

We accept bookings for the 2023-season from Thursday 1 December at 12.

Call to save on hot water

The implementation of the previously announced energy-saving measures at SDU has begun. For legal reasons, the decision to turn off the hot water to the taps has been revoked. Therefore, all SDU employees are instead encouraged to limit and preferably avoid using hot water for hand washing.

Moving of telephone system from Skype to Teams

Telephony is moving from Skype to Microsoft Teams. The big moving weekend will happen over the weekend of Friday 25th November up to and including Sunday 27th November.

SDU’s GET team involved in two major EU projects

SDU’s Gender Equality Team (GET) is, as of this year, part of two major EU projects, in which their expertise in incorporating gender equality aspects into research and university operations will come into play for the benefit of SDU and the sector as a whole.

Energy-saving measures to begin from 24 October

After the autumn break, a series of energy-saving initiatives will be implemented at SDU's locations to meet the ongoing energy and supply situation and reduce SDU’s climate footprint.

SDU reduces rental and operating costs

SDU has a robust economy, but the University is also affected by the challenged global economy. The Rectorate takes the situation seriously and is therefore initiating a controlled slowdown of a number of costs.

SDU researcher to establish company in new programme

Drone researcher Kristian Husum Laursen has been appointed as SDU’s first translational postdoc. As part of the Spin-Outs Denmark programme, he will receive one year of financial and professional assistance to develop a concrete idea and establish his own company.

Ongoing information about the analysis of the study administration

Interest in knowing more about the analysis and further work has been shown.

SDU implements energy-saving measures

The University of Southern Denmark follows the recommendation of the Danish Energy Agency and the Ministry of Higher Education and Science to lower the heating of state buildings where it is deemed possible and technically suitable.

New guidelines for the use of IT

A change in the Human Resources Policy Guidelines has led to an update of the guidelines for the use of IT for SDU employees.

Ticket sales for the gala dinner ending soon

5 October at 12.00 noon is your last chance to buy tickets for this year’s Annual University Celebration gala dinner. There are still a number of connected tables available, so if you want to sit together with your fellow students or colleagues, it’s about your last chance!

Now begins the analysis of SDU’s study administration

SDU has entered into a contract with the consultancy firm Carve to carry out the previously announced analysis of the study administration.

Technical Services is on an employee outing on Thursday 29 September 2022

As all Technical Services employees are on an outing this day, there will be no available staff on the campuses.

Art event at SDU Odense

The Art Association at SDU invites all students and staff to a pop-up art event on 28 September in the Winter Garden with the opportunity to view and buy lithographic works.

SDU adopts new strategy for external research funding

The framework for research funding is changing. In order to accommodate and take advantage of these changes and ensure that SDU can continue to conduct research of the highest quality, SDU has adopted a new strategy for external research funding. Read about the strategy here.

Holiday requests

It is now time to start planning and announcing leave in the holiday year 2022/2023, where holiday must be taken during the period from 1 September 2022 to 31 December 2023 (the holiday entitlement period).

New Nordic humanist centre to create new understandings of the world’s societal challenges

Thanks to a donation from The A.P. Moller Relief Foundation, the University of Copenhagen and the University of Southern Denmark will establish a new research centre: the Nordic Humanities Centre for Challenge-Based Inquiry. Based on humanistic disciplines, the Centre will contribute nuances, perspectives, new understandings and opportunities for action in relation to the major societal challenges such as the climate crisis and pandemics.

Payment of special holiday allowance

Second payment of special holiday allowance

Climate Thursdays

Update your knowledge about the climate – status, solutions and actions

Car parks closed off due to the Semester Start Party

In connection with the Semester Start Party on Saturday, 3 September, the car parks PV1, PV3 and PV6 will be closed off.

Analysis of the educational administration, autumn 2022

Over the next few years, the educational sector will face a number of changes following political reforms in relation to admission and regionalisation, further and continuing education, internationalisation, demographic development with fewer students and a new student administration system.

European millions in grant money from the EU ensures continued development of EPICUR

The EPICUR university alliance, which SDU joined in 2021, has been granted €14.4 million from the EU’s ERASMUS+ programme, which ensures the further development of the European university over the next four years. For SDU, this means closer cooperation and will, among other things, allow students to take additional and more flexible courses abroad.

Welcome to 4,348 new SDU students

The University of Southern Denmark has offered student places to 4,348 new students.

Read SDU's sustainability report

The University of Southern Denmark's sustainability report for 2021 has landed. The report maps SDU's work with sustainability last year and highlights a number of concrete results and examples.

5152 has applied for an SDU education as first priority

The number of people who have given the highest priority to one of SDU's higher education is 5152 this year, which corresponds to a decline of 12%. The entire university sector is experiencing a decline in applications.

Large donation from the A.P. Moller Foundation for large robots at Lindø

A world-leading centre for the development of automation and robots to build large structures such as wind turbines, ships and construction works will now become a reality after A.P. Moller Foundation donates DKK 90 million to new Center for Large Structure Production at Lindø. The new centre will be established under the Maersk Mc-Kinney Moller Institute at SDU.

SDU is looking for a new Chair of the Board

SDU has begun the process of finding a new Chair of the Board as of 1 January 2023 to replace Niels Thorborg, who will resign at the end of the year.

Payment of 0.64 holiday day with June salary

Now, SDU are paying the value of the 0.64 holiday days to the employees who were employed in the period from 1 January 2019 to 31 August 2019 and who are still employed.

A new video marks the opening of the SDU Climate Cluster

The SDU Climate Cluster is now officially open. We mark this occasion by the release of a video, where you can learn more about SDU’s large strategic focus on the climate.

SDU involved in plans for new media city in Odense

SDU and the other parties involved in Media City Odense (MCO) have signed a statement of intent with DSB Property Development to create a mediatech city at Jarlsberggade in Odense. The first phase of the new media city is to set new standards for innovation and collaboration across the education, research and media sectors.

Templafy will be updated to Templafy Hive

On Thursday, 23 June, Templafy will be updated to the latest version, Templafy Hive. This means easier access to templates and documents with SDU's brand directly in Word, Power Point and Excel.

Summer holiday closings in the Central Administration

Several departments in the Central Administration are either closed or have reduced staffing during the summer holidays. Extended response times should therefore be expected when contacting the individual units. For Technical Services, there are a number of practical changes regarding operations.

SDU has found its new pro-rector

From 1 August, Helle Waagepetersen will be the Pro-Rector for Education at the University of Southern Denmark. The 50-year-old professor comes from a position as Head of Department at the Department of Drug Design and Pharmacology at the University of Copenhagen, and she is very much looking forward to starting at SDU.

New recruitment portal

Welcome to a new portal for everyone involved in the recruitment and onboarding of scientific and technical-administrative staff.

First SDU employee attends an EPICUR event!

Associate Professor Dorte Jagetic Andersen from SDU’s Centre for Border Region Studies is the first SDU employee to have participated in a research seminar on European identity offered through the EPICUR European University, of which SDU became a member at the end of 2021.

New statement about freedom of research, teaching and speech

SDU’s board has approved a statement that defines a framework for how the University relates to matters of freedom of research, freedom of teaching and freedom of speech and debate. The statement has been prepared by an employee-based working group which believes that an official document will benefit both employees and students at SDU.

Join us for the new climate conference, FORUM

SDU will make 100 tickets available for employees and students - 50 for each group - who want to participate in the climate conference FORUM in connection with Tinderbox Festival 2022.

SDU to offer new common goods at the central warehouse

From mid-June 2022, the new SDU Common Goods will be introduced across SDU. The primary function of SDU Common Goods is to ensure a sustainable, environmentally friendly and simple range of selected products, where logistics, administration, warehousing and finance together contribute to the sustainable development of the University.

New Solution for Privileged Access Management

SDU Needs a New Solution for Privileged Access Management on Windows Computers

Daniel Diermeier to visit SDU and give a presentation on freedom of expression

On 14 June, Daniel Diermeier, Professor and Chancellor of Vanderbilt University, USA, will be visiting SDU in Odense. Here he will make a presentation on freedom of expression in the academic world at a DIAS event, where SDU’s new set of values will also be presented.

Become a Climate Ambassador at SDU

On 18 and 19 August, you have the chance to become a Climate Ambassador at SDU.

Change in daily operations in Service and Logistics on Wednesday 8 June

Due to an event in Technical Services, normal operations in Service and Logistics are suspended on that day.

The competence foundation for government employees – Be aware application deadline

The competence foundation cover costs for competence development for employees at SDU.

Have you thought about trying a walking meeting?

Did you know that walking while having a meeting can have a positive effect on health, well-being, and idea development?

The opening of Odense Light Rail is celebrated at SDU

On Saturday 28 May, Odense’s new light rail will be taking its inaugural trip through the city streets. During the day, all the stations from Tarup Shopping Centre to the two stops at SDU will be inaugurated, and the campus will celebrate the occasion with activities and light refreshments.

Implementation of the new position structure at SDU has now been approved

The Executive Board (the Rectorate and the deans) has now approved the letter of intent concerning the implementation of the new position structure for scientific staff at SDU.

SDU still ranks among the leading sustainable universities

The internationally recognised magazine Times Higher Education ranks SDU 93rd among 1,400 universities from around the world. Based on the universities’ work with sustainability, SDU is pleased with the ranking, even though the university was ranked 23rd last year.

News on special holiday allowance and senior bonus

From this year, the timing of payment of special holiday allowance will change and the Senior Bonus Circular came into force on 1 April 2022.

Law degree programme to be created at SDU in Esbjerg

From the autumn of 2023, SDU will offer a law degree programme in Esbjerg. This is clear after RUVU (the advisory committee for the evaluation of the offering of higher education programmes) has approved SDU’s application for the education. This was announced by Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen during a visit to SDU in Esbjerg on Thursday morning.

Do not microwave the canteen’s plates

The canteen’s plates are unsuitable for microwave cooking. They are made from 100% melamine plastic which MAY give off formaldehyde og melamine when heated in a microwave oven. Therefore, please avoid using plates from the canteen when microwaving food.

Explore Campus Odense

Campus Odense and the Citizen Science-project ‘SDU Moves’ hereby invite you, your colleagues, students and employees from other Campus Odense-partners to Explore Campus Odense 2 and 5 May 2022. It will be two days filled with fun and exciting activities based in nature, culture and movement, where you can try your hand at canoeing on the bathing lake, virtual reality at Campus UCL and learning more about the development of Campus Odense and the new university hospital.

Sebastian H. Mernild set to head SDU’s climate efforts

The internationally renowned Professor of Climate Change is set to head SDU’s largest-ever strategic initiative in climate change, sustainability and green transition.

New SDU HR off to a good start

The new central HR department, SDU HR, is well under way in the process of coming together. The last managerial positions have been filled and the reorganisation is expected to be fully in place by the summer holidays.

Obituary for Professor James W. Vaupel

On Sunday 27 March 2022, Jim Vaupel died following an unexpected and brief illness. Thus, our university and Denmark, indeed the whole world, lost a leading demographer and researcher on ageing.

Simon Møberg Torp continues as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities

In the coming years, Simon Møberg Torp will serve as Dean of the Faculty of Humanities. Having been chosen from a pool of strong contenders for the job, he will continue his term as Dean, which has lasted since 2013. Both the University and Simon Torp himself are delighted with his appointment.

It is now possible to do interviews for TV or radio at SDU

SDU now has the facilities to broadcast live to the Danish and international press in high quality from Campus Odense. This means that an interview can be conducted at the University, making it easier for both the media and the expert being interviewed.

Call to investigate collaborations in research and education

In a joint statement, Universities Denmark have announced that they are suspending cooperation with Russia and Belarus. They now call for caution in collaborations involving companies from the two countries.

Your salary will be paid on Thursday, but your payslip will arrive later than usual

Salary on its way - payslip delayed due to technical issues

Parking area P1 partially blocked off

Please note that parts of the gravel parking area P1 will be blocked off between 28 March to 1 July 2022 (inclusive).

Political agreement on regionalisation

On Tuesday 22 March, a political conciliation group reached an agreement based on the political initiative ‘More and better educational opportunities throughout Denmark’ of 25 June 2021.

Drop in quota 2 applications

At SDU, the number of quota 2 applicants has dropped by 10% compared to last year. The decrease is seen across multiple programmes and campuses, and the university sector as a whole has seen a fall in quota 2 applicants by 12%. Now the test-based admission process awaits all of the 8,193 applicants who have accepted to sit for the test.

Follow-up on SDU’s support for Ukraine

SDU and the other universities in Denmark distinguish between individuals and institutions when suspending cooperation with Russia and Belarus.

Special holiday for the holiday year 2022/2023

Call for requests for placement of the up to 5 days of special holiday for the holiday year 2022/2023 (1 May 2022 to 30 April 2023) is now taking place.

Current hacker and cyber security threats

SDU is experiencing increased activity in relation to foreign actors who scan our networks in order to identify weaknesses that can be exploited. Here are 4 things that can help increase your own and SDU’s information security.

New Dean at the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences

With Peter Møllgaard’s appointment as the new Dean of the Faculty of Business and Social Sciences, SDU has gained an experienced strategic leader with international experience.

SDU expresses support for Ukraine

All of Denmark’s universities have announced in a joint statement that they are suspending all cooperation with Russia and Belarus on research, education and innovation.

Make SDU Wilder

Department of Biology, Technical Services, SDU Moves, and the Campus Odense Active Living Group invite all employees and students to take an active break on Wednesday 16th of March between 12-15 at Campus Odense

The new signage and directions at Campus are taking shape

For some time, Technical Services has been running a project on signage and directions at Campus Odense.

A healthy and safe working environment at SDU

During the next few weeks, SDU HR will enter into a dialogue about how we can support SDU’s health and safety tasks and efforts in the future.

Longing is exhibited at SDU

A nationwide art exhibition puts the spotlight on longing and the existential issues with which we have all become acquainted during the corona pandemic. At the University of Southern Denmark, artist Lise Harlev will be exhibiting her work series called "Du tænker hele tiden" (You Are Thinking All the Time).

Test runs on Campusvej

Odense Letbane is currently conducting test runs on Campusvej from morning to evening on all weekdays.

Bike race at SDU Campus Odense on Friday 11th of February

We bike in the Winter as well! SDU Moves marks that by finishing of the Winter Bicycle Week with a Bike Race on Friday 11th of February at 15.00.

New enterprise resource planning system well underway

On Monday 7 February, the new enterprise resource planning system (ERP) will go live and all financial staff from departments and units can start using it. The system provides the basic platform for modernising and streamlining financial and accounting processes. Since 10 January it has not been possible to receive or send invoices, so the opening is anticipated and the invoices are ready to be processed in the new system.

The crucial prerequisite for the universities 'success - and thus also the universities' opportunities to contribute with answers to today's great challenges - is academic freedom, writes Rector Jens Ringsmose.

All COVID-19 restrictions at SDU to be lifted from 1 February

All of the current restrictions with corona pass, virtual exams, protective equipment and the call for working from home at universities will be lifted when 1 February 2022 rolls around.

SDU joins the Winter Bicycle Week 2022 – are you riding along?

In week 6 it is time to prepare your bike when SDU Moves saddles up for “BIKE TO WORK – THE WINTER BICYCLE WEEK” by the Danish Cyclist’s Federation. We bike the entire week from 7th-13th of February. Participation is FOR FREE, and you can win great prices!

In 2022, SDU will launch a new offer targeting upper secondary schools: ‘SDU Takeover’

SDU Takeover brings together a team of talented students who visit upper secondary schools in and around the Region of Southern Denmark to take over the teaching with exciting academic dissemination and dialogue at eye level.

SDU to establish a set of values

During the next few months, a task force will draft a set of values that SDU, among other things, can apply with regard to future cases of the liberty of SDU employees to conduct research, teach, discuss and express themselves as they please.

Extension of infection-preventing measures at higher-educational institutions

All of the current restrictions with corona passes, virtual exams, protective equipment and the call for working from home at universities have been extended until the end of January. On the upside, we have hopes of a normal study start in February.

SDU’s institutional plan has been submitted

SDU has submitted a plan to the Ministry of Higher Education and Science describing how the University intends to comply with the political agreement on more and better educational opportunities throughout Denmark. The content is largely identical to the draft presented to the Board in December. SDU wants to strengthen the University’s regional position, but this should not happen by reducing SDU’s student places in Odense.

Join the MediaTech Festival this summer

Media City Odense invites you to join the MediaTech Festival on June 1-3 2022 at DOK5000 in Odense. Here the entire media and media tech industry will meet for a 2.5-day conference with inspiration, new knowledge, debate and networking. The festival is relevant for anyone with an interest in media, communication, marketing, production and tech.

SDU’s climate centre is in the pipeline

In 2022, SDU’s climate centre will open under the name of SDU Climate Cluster. Compared to previous announcements, there are a few changes to the structure of the centre, which will function more as an interdisciplinary research cluster.

The New Year brings more waste sorting

2023 will be the year when we start sorting waste at the university. Initially, the new waste stations at SDU Odense will be rolled out from the start of next semester, and during the year the scheme will be implemented on the remaining campuses.