Partnership Perspectives

Interview with Prof. Dr. Kristina Adorjan

Strong international partnerships are essential for advancing innovation in research and education. The collaboration between the University of Bern and McGill University is designed to foster exactly this exchange. Prof. Kristina Adorjan, Vice-Dean for Internationalization and National Networking, discusses the potential of the partnership, identifies promising fields for cooperation, and reflects on how joint initiatives can strengthen global academic networks.

In this interview, Prof. Kristina Adorjan shares her expectations for the UniBE–McGill partnership and highlights key opportunities for future collaboration.

• What are your expectations for the UniBE–McGill Partnership? 

I expect the UniBE–McGill Partnership to foster meaningful academic collaboration, allowing students and researchers to share knowledge, gain international experience, and work on innovative projects together. I also hope it will strengthen intercultural understanding and create lasting connections between both institutions. 

• Where do you see opportunities for collaboration in line with the UniBE MedFak 2030 strategy? 

I see great opportunities for collaboration in areas that align with the UniBE MedFak 2030 strategy, particularly in interdisciplinary research, digital health, and translational medicine. By combining expertise from both institutions, we can advance innovation in medical education, promote sustainable healthcare solutions, and strengthen global research networks. 

• Are you aware of any funding opportunities for collaborative projects between the two universities? 

Yes, I’m aware that there are several potential funding opportunities to support collaboration between the two universities, such as mobility grants, joint research funding schemes, and international partnership programs. Additionally, external sources like the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) and Canada’s Tri-Council agencies could provide support for joint initiatives.