Proven research excellence
Linköping University plays a central role, offering world-class expertise in areas such as semiconductors, thin-film technology, printed and organic electronics, metals, polymers, composites, and emerging sustainable materials.
Through institutions and departments including Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Laboratory of Organic Electronics (LOE), and Center for Materials Science (KMAT), the university enables cutting-edge research closely linked to industrial needs.
This film highlights Östergötland’s strengths in functional and advanced materials and their real-world applications, showcasing examples from leading research and industry environments. The region unites internationally recognized expertise in smart and functional materials, driving innovation across multiple sectors.
At Linköping University, Materials Science for Sustainable Technologies is a strategic profile area. The university collaborates closely with industry to develop new functional materials for applications in medical technology, electronics, and sustainable manufacturing. Professor Magnus Berggren’s group conducts pioneering research in organic and printed materials, focusing on flexible, biocompatible, and energy-efficient systems that interact with biological environments and enable new types of sensors and electronic devices.
Saab (Svenska Aeroplan AB) in Linköping applies innovative functional material solutions in defense and security systems. Through collaborations in networks such as the Innovative Materials Arena, Saab advances research, testing, and industrial application of functional and advanced materials, bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and practical applications.
Industry at scale
The region hosts a broad and expanding ecosystem of companies across the materials value chain — from metal and composite manufacturing to cellulose-based materials, additive manufacturing, plastics and polymer engineering, as well as electronics and thin-film technologies.
Major industries such as Siemens Energy, SAAB, Gränges, Hydro, Arla Plast, Billerud, Holmen, Toyota Material Handling, Väderstad and Svensk Plaståtervinning are complemented by innovative SMEs and research-intensive startups that benefit from strong networks and test environments.
Innovation that reduces risk
Innovation actors including the Innovative Materials Arena, Printed Electronics Arena, and LEAD Business Incubator support collaboration, demonstration, and commercialization.
Together, this combination of academic excellence, industrial diversity, and a dynamic innovation system makes Östergötland a powerful platform for the development of future, sustainable material solutions.
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