Research in sociology
Research in sociology at Lund University
Sociology at Lund University is characterised by a combination of theoretical breadth, methodological diversity and a strong engagement with societal issues. In an internationally oriented research and teaching environment, perspectives and approaches come together to create strong conditions for understanding and analysing the social challenges of our time.
Key perspectives, concepts and areas of focus
Within the field of sociology at Lund University, we combine an ethnographic tradition with broad theoretical and methodological pluralism. Our research ranges from statistical analysis of register data to months of participant observation in a workplace or a prison. Inequality and power form the analytical core and are studied along the classic axes of class, gender and ethnicity, but also in relation to sexuality, age, migration, social isolation, environment and technology. The subject moves seamlessly between the micro level – how individuals act in specific situations – and the macro level – how institutions and structures shape opportunities and political outcomes.
Examples of current research areas
Our research in sociology is largely conducted within six research environments. Cultural Space examines how cultural structures, norms and systems of meaning shape the identities and hierarchies of social groups. Crime, Control and Culture explores the social, cultural and technological structures in which crime, victimisation and control emerge. SWAP analyses transformations in working life, focusing on new and insecure forms of employment as well as processes of professionalisation. FAMIV studies changing family patterns, migration and the conditions of the welfare state. EnvSoc explores the interaction between society and the environment, and between human and non-human life, including the societal processes through which sustainability innovations are adopted and unsustainable technologies and practices are phased out, delayed or ignored. Finally, SSST focuses on the social dimensions of science and technology, from the everyday work of AI developers and sensor-based visualisation in legal evidence to the regulation of pharmaceutical marketing.
Research related to contemporary societal issues
Sociology at Lund University has a clear mission to place its research at the service of society, often by contributing critical perspectives and insights that are essential for meaningful change. Findings are communicated to public authorities, policymakers, journalists, industry organisations, civil society organisations and the wider public – not as an add-on, but as an integral part of what it means to conduct social science research. Research on crime prevention is carried out in collaboration with national authorities. Our work on sustainability contributes to the global debate on why environmental goals are seldom put into practice, highlighting the social structures and power relations that determine whether real transitions take place. A comparative perspective runs throughout: Swedish and Nordic conditions are analysed in relation to international patterns, strengthening the scope and relevance of the conclusions.
What characterises sociology research at Lund University?
The hallmark of sociology at Lund University is not individual themes but how they are brought together. Research is often comparative in different ways: Swedish and Nordic contexts are understood in relation to international patterns, making local findings relevant far beyond national borders. Our research is frequently conducted in close collaboration with public authorities, civil society and international networks, and actively seeks to contribute knowledge to public debate and policy rather than remaining within the seminar room. At the same time, research environments interact with one another; questions of power and inequality move freely between criminology, work, family, culture, environment and technology. And in a compact university city, where disciplines are rarely more than a few hundred metres apart, interdisciplinary encounters emerge that are difficult to achieve on larger, more anonymous campuses.
Learn more about our sociology research in Lund University Research Portal.