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For researchers

FORTHEM Academy for Early-Stage Researchers

FORTHEM supports early-stage researchers with skills development, grant applications, and networking opportunities.

The alliance offers workshops, masterclasses, individual mentoring, and funding for research stays at non-academic partners.

Researchers can also showcase your research through an annual conference, science competitions, science slams, and the new open-access FORTHEM Journal.

Learn more about the FORTHEM Academy for Early-Stage Researchers

Staff exchange

FORTHEM allows teaching staff to teach at any of the nine partner universities in the alliance. These mobility programmes let you share knowledge and teaching practices with international colleagues, with a minimum commitment of eight hours over two days.

Learn more about travel grants for academic staff

It is also possible to invite a lecturer from a FORTHEM partner university to teach at UiA. With good planning, this can internationalise your class and free up resources at the same time.

Organise a short-term programme

There are two options for short-term mobilities in FORTHEM. Short-term collective mobilities follow a five day format and do not require credits. Blended intensive programmes have a digital component in addition to a mobility of 5 – 30 days’ duration and MUST include at least 3 ECTS credits.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you design a simple and effective programme based on the guidelines from the FORTHEM Alliance:

1. Identify objectives and goals:

Determine the main objectives of the programme. What do you want your students to achieve by the end of the programme? This could include specific skills, knowledge or experiences.

2. Select a target group:

Decide on the criteria for selecting students. Consider factors such as academic performance, interest in the subject, and diversity.

3. Design the curriculum:

Outline the topics and activities that will be covered. Ensure that the content aligns with the programme's objectives. Include a mix of lectures, workshops, and hands-on activities to keep students engaged. Choose your format: short-term collective or blended intensive. Not sure? Contact forthem@uia.no.

4. Plan the schedule:

Create a draft schedule that includes all learning activities and breaks. Make sure the schedule is realistic and allows for flexibility. 5. Send this plan to FORTHEM by September 15 using the form here.

Once your programme has been selected: 

  • FORTHEM will advertise for students to apply by a given deadline.
  • Once the deadline expires, you will receive a link to select and rank the students.
  • FORTHEM will notify students of the selection and send them an offer.
  • Once the students have accepted the offer, you will receive a final list of participants and UiA’s FORTHEM team will help you to:

5. Arrange logistics:

The FORTHEM staff at UiA will help with logistics such as accommodation, transportation, and meals.

6. Communicate with participants:

The FORTHEM staff at UiA will hold a joint digital information meeting once students are selected and provide students with all the information they need before the programme starts. This includes the schedule, what to bring, and any preparatory work they need to do.

7. Implement the programme:

Execute the programme according to the plan. FORTHEM staff will support on social events and you are responsible for the academic aspect of the programme.

8. Evaluate and reflect:

On the last day of the programme, take some time to gather feedback from students and other stakeholders. Reflect on what worked well and what could be improved for future programmes. The FORTHEM staff will present the participants with certificates of participation.

FORTHEM will send an official evaluation and send the results to you.

By following these steps, you can create a well-structured and impactful short-term programme for your students. If you need more detailed guidance or specific examples, feel free to ask!

FORTHEM labs

FORTHEM labs are collaborative networks where people from different universities work together to solve societal challenges. The nine labs bring together students, researchers, and external partners to co-create solutions and develop research projects. These networks also provide opportunities for publishing, data collection and professional development across the alliance.

Learn more about the FORTHEM labs

Published July 2, 2025 - Last modified Aug. 29, 2025