Four units becomes three when IPU reorganises
Since the turn of the year, the Department of Production Engineering (IPU) has three units instead of four. The aim is to create clearer subject relevance and strengthen cohesion following the move from Södertälje to Stockholm.
IPU has undergone major changes in recent years. In January 2023, two departments were merged; in summer 2025, the operations relocated from the Södertälje campus; and now, the next step is being taken.
“We had two units in Södertälje and two in Stockholm. Now that we are all together, we want to avoid the previous units getting stuck in their silos. There are many similarities and good reasons to think differently,” says Magnus Wiktorsson , Head of Department at IPU.
These similarities include course content, research areas and laboratory equipment. With the operations now based on one campus, similar equipment and researchers with related specialisations can be coordinated, opening up opportunities for greater collaboration.
“The vision was to form three new units based on subject areas. We have put a lot of effort into finding a logical structure, and we believe we have now achieved that,” Magnus adds.
The new units
The new organisation is built around subject areas and consists of three units:
- Production Management and Industrial Systems, Head: Johan Kristoffersson
- Production Systems and Automation, Head: Xi (Vincent) Wang
- Manufacturing and Metrology Systems, Head: Andreas Archenti
Throughout 2025, the unit heads have held discussions within their units and with individuals to gather feedback, as most people have joined new groups. The new organisation was also taken into account when everyone moved into the premises at Brinellvägen 68 this summer.
What does this mean going forward?
The change brings new constellations in work groups and meetings, with a stronger focus on subject orientation and clearer responsibility for the development of operations.
“From a subject perspective, there are rational reasons for the change, but for those who have worked together for a long time, it may naturally feel unfamiliar to work in new groups. Overall, there is strong engagement around development within the department,” says Magnus.
With the new structure, IPU hopes to create critical mass, foster even more collaboration and continue its development.
Text and photo: Ulrika Georgsson