K2 is a clinical and translational research unit that carries out epidemiological, clinical and laboratory-based research. The department works closely with hospitals in Western Norway and with colleagues at leading medical universities in and outside Europe.
Successful collaboration in 2025 is reflected in more than 400 published scientific articles, with a significant share in high-impact journals. Our researchers also engage with the public through various media channels, including television, newspapers and social media.
External funding is important for our research activity. A large share comes from the Research Council of Norway, the EU and the Norwegian Cancer Society, alongside a range of other Norwegian and international sources.
Key figures
- 16 research groups
- 6 research centres
- More than 400 scientific publications a year
- Around 140 PhD candidates
- 45 taught courses in medicine, pharmacy and health sciences
Research fields
An overview of our research fields
Internal medicine
- Endocrinology and endocrine surgery
- Geriatrics
- Haematology
- Infectious diseases and microbiology
- Cardiology
- Respiratory medicine
- Oncology
- Rheumatology
Paediatric diseases
- Paediatrics
Women's health
- Gynaecology and obstetrics
Surgical disciplines
- Thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
Basic medicine and laboratory sciences
- Immunology
- Medical biochemistry
- Medical genetics
Pharmaceutical sciences
- Pharmacy and pharmacology
The department's research structure
Core facilities
Strategic priorities
Strengthened scientific publishing
K2 will increase the quality, volume and visibility of its publishing through skills development, active use of relevant publication channels and a higher share of open access.
Robust external funding
The department will maintain strong external funding through more grant applications, better financial planning and closer support for applications and projects.
Good research support and information sharing
K2 will ensure effective communication of funding calls and strengthen researchers' skills through courses, advice and support throughout the research process.
More collaboration and mobility
Research collaboration will be strengthened nationally and internationally, combined with greater mobility for researchers and active participation in networks.
Resources
Our researchers have access to a wide range of research support services, including:
- technical staff and laboratory facilities
- advisers in research and innovation
- financial resources
- legal expertise
- communication support
- a data protection officer
- the university library
- Eitri Medical Incubator (external link)
- VIS (external link) — innovation and technology transfer