New educational collaboration strengthens the bond between biotech and biosolutions

Few Danish cities play a more significant role in biotech- and biosolutions than Kalundborg. Companies such as Novo Nordisk, Novozymes, Chr. Hansen, and many more are based in the city. Additionally, excellent conditions exist for those seeking education in the field.

University College Absalon offers, among other programmes, the Bachelor of Engineering in Biotechnology, while the Department of Food Science (KU FOOD) and the Department of Plant and Environmental Sciences at the University of Copenhagen will launch a master’s program in Biosolutions in Kalundborg from the summer of 2024, on which Absalon’s biotechnology engineering graduates will be able to directly continue their studies on.

As a result, there are significant shared interests between the two institutions, and this has led to the signing of a collaboration agreement between the institutions. The partnership will first focus on coordinated efforts in recruitment for both programs and, in addition to other facilities, Biosolutions will get to use Absalon’s rooms and facilities in Kalundborg’s Biotech City. The close connection on campus will also strengthen the development of an active, exciting and innovative study environment across programs.

“We are really thrilled about this collaboration agreement with Absalon, as this partnership is mutually beneficial. Our new master’s program is designed so that Absalon’s biotechnology engineering graduates can seamlessly continue with us. Therefore, having a solid collaboration between our institutions makes perfect sense,” says Anna Haldup, Head of the Department of Food Science.

Off to a strong start

The long-term ambition is to further strengthen the collaboration between the institutions, for the benefit of both Biosolutions and the Biotechnology engineering program through a variety of initiatives such as exchange of teachers, opportunities for joint theses, and collaborative projects across institutions.

At University College Absalon, they are equally excited about the collaboration, that is off to a strong start already.

“Even though the ink has barely dried on the collaboration agreement, we are already actively working together to find solutions, and we see great value in creating shared environments, both academically and socially, especially when the University of Copenhagen launches their master’s program in Kalundborg. This will strengthen the environment for our students and the professional community for our teachers. From the outset, our students can now see that they have the opportunity to stay and pursue a master’s degree here in Kalundborg, if that is their desire,” explains Conni Simonsen, Head of the Centre for Engineering and Science at University College Absalon.