The evaluation, known as EVAMEDHELSE, reviewed ten years of research (2012–2022) within the entire field of Norwegian medical and health science research.
STAMI received highly positive feedback, earning 4 out of 5 points in all five assessment criteria:
- Research quality
- Institutional support and production of excellent research
- Contribution of research groups to publications
- Societal impact
- User involvement, including engagement with social parties involved in working life
Scientific excellence and societal relevance
– This recognition reflects years of dedicated work. The evaluation committee’s conclusion that STAMI is internationally leading in occupational health research affirms that we combine scientific excellence with high societal relevance – and that the institute produces research that is both in demand and applicable, STAMI’s Director Therese N. Hanvold says.
– It’s particularly rewarding that we score highly both in scientific quality and in the practical application and involvement of stakeholders in our research. It shows we’re successfully connecting science with real-world needs, adds Research Director Dag Ellingsen.
A mark of quality
The evaluation emphasizes that STAMI’s publications are of high international scientific quality and that the institute’s researchers significantly contribute to new knowledge that is original, relevant, and reliable.
STAMI is praised for conducting “internationally excellent” research—a rare distinction, according to Hanvold.
A vital societal mission
The committee highlights STAMI’s success in combining original, reliable, and internationally relevant research with a clear societal mission. Four key areas were identified where STAMI has had significant societal impact:
- Work-related cancer
- Understanding of sick leave and disability
- Prevention potential in the workplace
- Health effects of nanoparticles
– We have worked systematically for years to build expertise in these areas. Receiving confirmation that our work meets international standards is both gratifying and motivating, says Ellingsen.
Contributing to economic and social development
The evaluation also concluded that STAMI researchers have made substantial contributions to both economic and societal development, nationally and internationally.
– That we contribute to both societal and economic development, in Norway and internationally, demonstrates the real value of our research. Our work goes beyond science – it’s about working life, employees, and occupational health, Hanvold emphasizes.
– This is not just good news for STAMI, but for everyone striving for safe, healthy, and sustainable work environments worldwide, she adds.
A clear path ahead
The evaluation committee recommends that STAMI continue to develop its research strategy with clear priorities and enhanced international collaboration.
It also highlights the need to increase external funding, particularly through EU projects.
– We take this feedback seriously. We’ve already begun efforts to strengthen our international competitiveness and build stronger, long-term partnerships, says Hanvold.
Strong foundation for the future
STAMI sees the evaluation as a strong endorsement of the institute’s role in Norwegian research and working life.
Both Hanvold and Ellingsen view the results as a valuable resource for future strategic work.
– We will continue to strengthen our position as an international hub for work environment research. This evaluation motivates us to keep prioritizing quality and relevance in everything we do, concludes Hanvold.