Professor Jan Terje Andersen from the Institute of Clinical Medicine and the Centre of Excellence PRIMA at the University of Oslo has been awarded the UiO Innovation Award 2025.
He is the first professor of innovation in biomedicine at the Faculty of Medicine. Throughout his early career, he has combined long-term groundbreaking research with innovation initiatives in close collaboration with the business sector and other stakeholders, both nationally and internationally.
"It is with great excitement that I receive the UiO Innovation Award. I view it as a recognition of the long-term work my research group and my academic community have dedicated over time," the award winner says.
"The award motivates me to continue investing in combining studies of complex biology with research-based innovation processes," he adds.
Knowledge must be put to use
In the justification from the University Board, it states that Andersen's work "has resulted in a large portfolio of innovations, with a broad range of applications and significant benefits in terms of improved treatment and quality of life for patients, as well as substantial cost savings in healthcare."
The need for new biomedical technologies and treatment strategies is limitless, the award winner believes. Gaining an in-depth understanding of complex biology opens the door to tailor novel therapeutic molecules.
"However, this knowledge must be translated into practice to be effective. For me, this mindset is self-evident," he emphasises, continuing:
"It is the biological insights that guide the conceptual basis for our innovation trajectories."
Aims to make a difference by understanding the big in the small
Andersen has always been fascinated by biology. Throughout his research career, he has asked questions and eagerly dived deep into biological processes.
The goal? To understand how we stay healthy and why some individuals develop serious diseases.
"I want to grasp the big picture within the small details. My motivation has consistently been rooted in the conviction that it is only when we have a fundamental, detailed understanding of how everything interrelates that we can develop new biomedicine technologies and medicines tailored for their specific purposes," the professor explains, adding:
"In this way, our research can make a clear difference."
Driven by a desire to improve patients' quality of life
As a professor in innovation, he is motivated when he sees new opportunities.
"My vision and drive lie in translating research findings and technology into applications that benefit patients," he says.
"If our research can one day provide patients with a better quality of life, alleviate, or cure severe illnesses, it will be fantastic," Andersen remarks.
Successful innovation requires tenacity and collaboration
An innovation process encompasses everything, according to the award winner: pace, strategy, and global competition.
The professor is clear about what it takes to succeed in innovation.
"It's like elite sports where everything has to align. It can be challenging and at times unpredictable. One must chase opportunities and funding, be tenacious, fearless, and create a fruitful collaboration with individuals from diverse backgrounds and expertise," he explains.
"Extensive dialogue with the outside world to test ideas is also crucial. As the network evolves over time, delivering solid academic results opens up new possibilities," states the award winner.
Basic research is essential for successful innovation
Andersen believes that basic research is a prerequisite for successful innovation. He points out that it is through new groundbreaking research findings that doors can open.
"You have to recognise the potential in the data. It's then that you can differentiate yourself in a commercial context," he says, continuing, "I take pride in the long-term strategic teamwork where we have repeatedly demonstrated that there is no real contradiction between in-depth molecular and cellular studies and translating knowledge into innovation processes and technology development."
Co-founded the biotech company Authera
In recent years, Andersen and his research community have entered into collaboration agreements with both large and small companies. They have also licensed out their own developed technologies, meaning that external companies gain the rights and access to utilise the group's innovations.
The professor also established the biotech company Authera in 2022, along with two former PhD students from his research group. The company remains owned by the researchers and collaborates with a number of global biotech firms.
"I am proud of how we have managed to make a global footprint, both academically and in relation to the business sector," he states.
An engaged mentor for students and young research talents
Guiding and facilitating opportunities for students and research talents are a significant part of his motivation. Andersen and his team have trained and mentored a large number of researchers for various roles in society, including entrepreneurs willing to take risks.
"No one can conduct your research better than you and your team as a whole. Therefore, it is a given that you should seize opportunities when they arise. I am committed to ensuring that conditions are set for researchers who are driven by this process," he explains.
A privilege to experience academic life as a researcher
Andersen hit the mark early in his research career. His first mentor, professor emeritusInger Sandlie, greatly influenced his development as a young researcher and innovator.
"I was seen, challenged, and given opportunities. Sandlie was forward-thinking and unafraid to take risks. That suited me well. Together, we have undertaken many journeys exploring the innovation potential of countless research findings," Andersen recalls.
The award winner views the experience of living an academic life as a privilege.
"Achieving success alongside others after focused efforts over time is the greatest reward," he concludes.
The Faculty of Medicine congratulates
"On behalf of the Faculty of Medicine, I would like to congratulate Jan Terje Andersen from the Institute of Clinical Medicine and from the Centre of Excellence PRIMA on receiving UiOs Innovation Award. This award is a well-deserved recognition of the significant achievements he has made over several years," Jan G. Bjaalie, Pro-Dean for Research and Innovation, says.
"Andersen has made a considerable impact with his work, particularly in vaccine development and antibody research for use in the fight against cancer. He is a role model in the field of innovation within biomedicine, both at the faculty as well as nationally and internationally. Furthermore, as the Faculty of Medicine's first professor of innovation, he has contributed to strengthening innovation and the strategic focus on advancement at the faculty. We look forward to following the important work of Andersen and his colleagues in the years to come," Bjaalie says.
About the University Board Awards
The University of Oslo annually acknowledges achievements in research, education, dissemination, and innovation through five awards.
The awards aim to stimulate increased activity and inspire the academic communities at the university. Each winner receives 250,000 NOK and a work of art.