Vision & values
At the Skagerak Facility, our vision is to be a national and internationally leading research infrastructure that drives scientific discovery, education, and societal impact. We enable cutting-edge marine research and field-based learning through access to state-of-the-art vessels, autonomous technology, and expert support.
Understanding the Ocean – for a sustainable future
To manage the long-term changes taking place in the marine environment, we must first deepen our understanding of the ocean today. Scientific research is essential to uncover the complex and dynamic processes that shape marine ecosystems – from coastal waters to the open ocean and polar regions.
At the heart of the Skagerak Facility is the modern research vessel R/V Skagerak, a high-tech, mobile platform equipped to support a wide range of marine research. On board, scientists work across disciplines including marine chemistry, oceanography, marine geology, atmospheric chemistry, and marine biology. The vessel functions as a floating research station – able to travel to the very locations where knowledge is most urgently needed.
Our vision
Our aim is to develop the Skagerak Facility into a national and internationally leading research infrastructure that enables world-class science and education, and contributes data and insights for the benefit of society. Since the University of Gothenburg initiated the construction of R/V Skagerak in 2012, our focus has been clear: to advance marine knowledge and address the urgent challenges facing the world’s oceans.
Core values
At the Skagerak Facility, we are guided by a strong set of values that shape our operations and long-term development:
- Environmental responsibility – We meet, and strive to exceed, environmental regulations and apply strict standards for sustainable operations, including careful consideration of any commercial use of the infrastructure.
- Accessibility – We ensure equal access to R/V Skagerak for all research disciplines and educational activities.
- Professionalism – Our operations are conducted efficiently and with a high degree of competence and safety.
- Transparency – We prioritise openness in decision-making and budgeting processes.
- University-wide values – We adhere to the core values of the University of Gothenburg: diversity, equality, and sustainability.