Responsibilities
As Vice Dean and Professor, I am responsible for leading and supporting research and development activities across the faculty’s key areas. My role focuses on fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment while ensuring that our academic programs meet high national and international standards.
A significant part of my work involves supporting and mentoring young researchers, helping them build the skills and confidence needed to carry forward a strong research culture. I am deeply committed to creating opportunities for early-career academics, as I believe they are essential to the continued development of both the faculty and the wider academic community.
I am also passionate about encouraging my colleagues to establish and strengthen international scientific networks. These networks not only contribute to their own academic growth but also play a vital role in advancing our faculty’s collective development. By fostering connections across borders, we can expand the impact of our research, share knowledge, and position our faculty as a global leader in academia.
I oversee the faculty’s PhD program, ensuring its quality and alignment with national and international academic standards. By guiding and empowering emerging scholars, I aim to inspire the next generation of researchers to push boundaries and contribute to the advancement of knowledge.
In addition to my academic responsibilities, I actively engage in national and international discussions on research and education policy. These efforts help strengthen the faculty’s position and ensure that we remain at the forefront of research and innovation, addressing both local and global challenges.
A key focus of my leadership is promoting sustainable societal development and innovation. I work to foster conditions that support increased academic publications and attract external funding for impactful research projects. By encouraging collaboration across departments, disciplines, and campuses, I strive to create a dynamic environment where education and research can thrive.
Ultimately, my goal is to ensure that the faculty’s work not only contributes meaningfully to society but also prepares the next generation of researchers and academics to lead in an interconnected and rapidly evolving global landscape.
Competences
Professor in Nursing, Aging, and eHealth, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University of South-Eastern Norway (USN), 2025
Throughout an extensive academic career, I have achieved formal professor competence in several key fields, evaluated and approved by various academic institutions:
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Professor in Health Promotion and Preventive Work
- Approved at the University of Stavanger, Norway (2024).
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Professor in Nursing
- Approved at Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences, Norway (2019).
- Approved at Mid Sweden University, Sweden (2024).
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Professor in eHealth
- Approved at the Faculty of Health and Sports Sciences, Department of Health and Nursing Science, University of Agder, Norway (2021).
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Professor in Health Sciences
- Approved at VID Specialized University, Norway (2019).
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Professor in Healthy Aging and Rehabilitation
- Approved at Western Norway University of Applied Sciences, Norway (2019).
This extensive and interdisciplinary expertise forms the foundation of my research, teaching, and professional development in the fields of health, aging, and digital innovation in the healthcare sector. My academic work is particularly focused on interdisciplinary collaboration, preventive measures, and promoting quality in health and care services.
CV
My profile in Zada Pajalic - Nasjonalt vitenarkiv