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Research areas in focus

At KTH, we create an understanding of the world we live in and lay the foundations for a sustainable and safe societal development where people's quality of life and health can be significantly improved. Our scientific advances are based on the free pursuit of knowledge to explore the unknown while finding solutions that benefit society.

Technology for better quality of life and health

Knowledge and technological innovation will revolutionise healthcare in the coming decades. As the population ages, the need for cost-effective technology and new methods that contribute to shorter waiting times, safer diagnoses and personalised treatments increases. KTH has a leading role in developing biotechnology and medical technology research that creates better conditions for patient survival and improved quality of life and health.

Secure digital future


AI is undoubtedly emerging as one of the most groundbreaking scientific and technological advances of recent decades. Through machine learning and large-scale data analysis, intelligent systems and autonomous robots can be created with unrivalled potential to impact and improve society. KTH is one of Europe's leading universities in information and communication technology (ICT), with world-leading research that includes social, ethical and legal aspects that enhance societal security. Future breakthroughs have the potential to revolutionise many industrial sectors, including healthcare, and transform social interactions between humans and technology.

Materials research shapes industries of the future

The materials of the future will need to be produced in a more energy-efficient way with reduced environmental impact. KTH conducts world-leading materials science research and closely collaborates with Swedish industry. Developing advanced materials leads to resource efficiency as they can be made stronger, lighter and more versatile than conventional materials. New materials and manufacturing processes can potentially transform industries in areas such as energy technology, electronics, biomaterials, medical technology and metallurgy.

Societies for the Future

To reduce global emissions and create a sustainable future, we need to change the way we use and manage the earth's resources. Research at KTH contributes to meeting our needs for food and water, heating, housing, communication and transport in a sustainable way. By developing cities and infrastructures that are adaptable and resilient to change, we can contribute to a sustainable transition.

Space is part of the future economy

Space research plays a crucial role in understanding the universe and our planet. Since the time of Nobel Laureate Hannes Alfvén, KTH has led space and plasma physics. Technology development for space applications is the foundation of the space infrastructure on which today's society depends. Satellites for environmental monitoring, antennas for space communications, rockets and AI for rapid data interpretation. The global space economy is expected to double to a thousand billion dollars within ten years. KTH actively participates in several international space projects and collaborates with various institutions and organisations to drive advanced space research and technology development.

The future lies in quantum technologies

Quantum technology is developing rapidly and is expected to become a key technology in several areas. KTH is at the forefront of the development of quantum technology, which not only enables faster and more advanced calculations, but also opens doors to safer communication, new materials, more efficient energy supply and the development of medicines.

Increasing competitiveness with industrial transformation

Industrial transformation is about supporting the industry's transition to becoming sustainable and CO2-neutral while strengthening its competitiveness. KTH researches business models, enabling technologies, production and product development. By integrating different disciplines, we can effectively manage the complexity required by the transition. This includes connected, autonomous means of transport, improved production processes for pharmaceuticals and electrification of vehicles.

Towards a faster energy transition

Access to sustainable energy is one of the biggest challenges in the world, with significant consequences for both prosperity and the environment. KTH has extensive and leading research in the entire energy field that will be crucial in the coming decades to solve Sweden's energy supply. Breakthrough technologies play a particularly important role as they can contribute to reduced environmental impact through fossil-free energy production and resource efficiency.