Your Engagement Matters for the Academia of the Future
Applications to Sveriges unga akademi (the Young Academy of Sweden) are now open. The Academy brings together some of the country’s most promising early-career researchers and offers a unique opportunity to work across disciplinary boundaries, develop as an academic leader, and contribute to strengthening the role of research in society. As a member, you become part of a community that drives initiatives relating to research policy, education, public engagement and science communication.
The work within the Academy is shaped by its members, which means activities evolve over time. Depending on your interests, you may, for example, take part in research policy advocacy, develop your ability to communicate science, inspire children and young people to discover research, or contribute to strengthening the Academy’s internal work. What always characterises the Academy is a strong sense of commitment and a desire to make a difference.
Shervin Bagheri, Professor of Fluid Mechanics, was a member of the academy between 2020 and 2025.
What motivated you to apply to the Young Academy of Sweden?
“There were several reasons. Firstly, I wanted to meet people working in different research environments, and the Young Academy brings together engaged and driven individuals from across all disciplines. I also wanted to contribute to outreach activities and research policy discussions.”
What does it mean to be a member?
“It means taking part in several meetings each year, each with its own theme. Members then choose to engage in the issues they care about – anything from internationalisation and research policy to outreach. It is incredibly easy to get involved, as the Academy has several full-time staff members and highly skilled project managers who support you in bringing projects to life together with other members.”
What is the best part of being part of the Young Academy of Sweden?
“Above all, it is enjoyable. You meet so many interesting, driven and positive people who are passionate about research. You broaden your perspectives and learn a great deal about other research fields, Swedish research policy, and how to communicate your research effectively. The network is something you benefit from throughout your career, and I have begun several collaborations with colleagues from the Academy. Perhaps most importantly, through the Young Academy you can genuinely influence the system.”
Tell us a bit more about yourself.
“I am a Professor and Head of the Division of Fluid Mechanics at the Department of Engineering Mechanics at the School of Engineering Sciences (SCI) at KTH. My research focuses on understanding how flowing media such as gases, liquids and more complex fluids – including cells and bacteria – interact with their surroundings. At the moment, we are studying how fluids and materials interact in various applications, from reducing friction on vehicles and marine hulls, to capturing carbon dioxide from the air and storing hydrogen underground. Although these applications differ, they share the same underlying principles and are largely governed by the same equations. I also lead one of KTH’s strategic research initiatives, FLUX - a center for Fluid Science Driving Technology and Sustainability. Outside work, I spend a lot of time with friends and family, preferably in Dalarna.”
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