At first glance, it may be difficult to see the common denominator in CHASE's various research projects, which include road safety, satellite communications, sensor systems, mobile networks and cancer treatment. But all the pieces fall into place if we point to antenna technology.
The antenna research centre CHASE conducts research in collaboration between Chalmers and 15 corporate partners. The activity started in 2007, as one of several so-called VINN Excellence Centers, with funding from Vinnova. Over the years, CHASE has received excellent reviews in evaluations.
Staffan Sjödin has a background in both research and industry, and over the years as director of CHASE has gained a good insight into the interface between academia and industry.
"Many companies have a research and development department, even if it is just one person in some smaller companies. But industry research is more applied, and they have greater demands to show quick results for invested resources. In collaboration with academia, large companies can participate in research that otherwise risks being deprioritised in their R&D budget. The smaller, resource-poor companies are also allowed to participate in the research. It is common for several companies to be interested in the same central issue. In this case, our research centres offer a clear structure for collaboration, and it is relatively easy to bring in new partners."
What attracts companies to collaborate, and what conditions are required?
"It can often be a long process, not least for budgetary reasons – to include the initiative in the companies' plans. But, at the same time, we at Chalmers must feel confident that we can take care of the companies needs. In my experience, this is easier through well-established relationships - when companies are already familiar with our activities. That's why getting the word out about CHASE and arousing curiosity is essential. We are already well on the way to establishing new partnerships.
The research projects evolve from basic research to more applied research, ultimately producing a product for companies.
How do you deal with the issue of confidentiality in business collaborations?
"It can be a tricky balancing act. We manage to handle it practically, but it is an issue that we still need to discuss clearly at a higher level. I know that the companies have strict procedures and are careful not to release too much information. But on the other hand, Chalmers has an open approach, and we publish our results in research articles, often with the industry as co-authors."
What does Chalmers have to gain from collaboration?
"All CHASE research projects have participants from industry, and the fact that we meet and exchange views is crucial for knowledge transfer. Chalmers gets a good sense of the industry's current issues and existing problems. This leads to utilisation in CHASE projects and further research in the long run."
FACTS
CHASE conducts research in collaboration between Chalmers and some 15 business partners. The focus is on applied research in antenna systems, sensor systems, biomedical electromagnetism, communication systems and signal processing. The projects are selected based on the needs of industry and society and for global sustainability.