Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2021 has yet been another year of transition and adaptation, as we continued to navigate through the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite many challenges, MediaFutures’ researchers, scholars, partners, students, and staff found many ways to flourish and deliver impactful research, innovation and high-quality work. We thank everyone who has contributed to MediaFutures’ success over this past year. In this post we would like to share some highlights and news stories, chronicling the Centre’s growth and achievements in 2021.

The Centre was officially opened on February 2. Due to the imposed COVID-restrictions, the opening was fully digital. The welcome address was given by MediaFutures director Prof. Christoph Trattner, the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research Henrik Asheim, and by the University of Bergen’s Rector Margareth Hagen. Research and industry partners were invited to give video greetings.

Since its opening, the Centre worked tirelessly on further recruitment. In 2021 MediaFutures has hired 26 highly experienced and skilled researchers and administrative employees.

We have also set up a physical 500m2 space in Media City Bergen – a leading international hub for media and technology innovation…

…. and were visited by high-profile guests such as the Norwegian Minister of Culture and Equality, Anette Trettebergstuen.

MediaFutures has published 15 research papers (journals & conference papers) in cutting edge outlets, such as Springer Nature’s AI & Ethics journal, and worked further on the public outreach. We have been keeping our audience updated with posts on MediaFutures’ website and social media accounts, as well as through our newsletter and Annual Report. Our researchers were invited to many conferences and events, and to give expert opinions in national media outlets. The centre held seminars and workshops.

Since the opening of the centre, first steps have been taken towards its further expansion.

Last but not least, MediaFutures’ first Annual Meeting took place on September 29-30. The event gathered over 70 guests from Norway and abroad, which turned out to be a huge success.

MediaFutures would like to express gratitude for your support and presence in 2021. We wish you a wonderful festive season, and look forward to seeing you in 2022.