Aurora course at UI Autumn semester 2026: UME005M Volunteering: Projects aimed at education and welfare

Course description:This course joins together real-world volunteering experiences with knowledge and theory on civic participation. The course is offered by the Faculty of Education and Diversity at the University of Iceland in collaboration with the Red Cross in Iceland. The course discusses volunteering and the social, educational and psychological theories that have been associated with this type of civic participation. It also discusses the motivations for such participation and gender differences in this regard. Finally, it discusses important aspects of the organization and structure of volunteering that are conducive to participants experiencing a sense of purpose in participating and are more likely to volunteer in the future. Students will also have the opportunity to experience volunteering firsthand and participate in work at institutions and non-governmental organizations that provide assistance to people with social equality and welfare as their guiding principles.See the course in the UGLA course catalogueCourse structure and assessmentStudents attend a session at the beginning of the course where they are introduced to the Icelandic Red Cross volunteer work, its values and goals. Over the course of the semester, students will then participate in volunteer activities with the Red cross. During their participation, students will keep a journal where they reflect on their volunteer experience. In discussion sessions, the experience is put into context with specific concepts or ideologies. At the end of the semester, students submit a report on their participation in which they explain their experience and put it in an academic context, as well as discussing how it can be useful to them in their work in the field of education and welfare.To register, please fill in this form before 15 June 2026For inquiries about the course, please contact aurora@hi.is or the main course instructor, Juan Camillo.

Aurora course at UI Autumn semester 2026: MAT705F Biotechnology in food industry

Course description:This is a BIP course (Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Program) with weekly hybrid sessions from September to November and an on-site week on 26-30 October 2026, where students get to experience hands-on learning in the MATÍS lab. This BIP course is delivered by the Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Iceland in collaboration with the Faculty of Oenology at University of Rovira i Virgili and the Department of Chemical Biology at Palacký University Olomouc. Furthermore, the course is delivered in collaboration with MATÍS (Iceland Food and Biotech R&D).In this course, students are introduced to biotechnology with a particular emphasis on its application in the food industry. The course covers the fundamental concepts of biotechnology, its development, and how the targeted use of living organisms, especially microorganisms, has created new opportunities to produce foods, ingredients, and bioactive compounds in an efficient and more sustainable manner.The course integrates foundational knowledge in genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and microbiology with key methods in molecular biology and genetic engineering. Selective breeding is introduced as the earliest form of biotechnology, followed by an overview of how modern genetic engineering enables more targeted and efficient modifications than traditional approaches. In addition, the course addresses bioinformatics, advances in genome sequencing, and the use of genetic databases that form the basis of modern biotechnology.Particular emphasis is placed on examples from current research and industry, providing students with a clear understanding of how theoretical knowledge in biotechnology is directly applied to the development of foods, raw materials, and sustainable production processes. Upon completion of the course, students will understand how biotechnology is applied in the modern food industry and the scientific and technological foundations that enable innovation and value creation.See more information in the UGLA course catalogue

Aurora course at UI Autumn semester 2026: MAT703F Marine resources

Course description:Students will gain an insight into the newest research and developments within the marine resources sector, including new product development, technological and processing advances, novel analytical quality assessment techniques, as well as obtain a holistic view of the many aspects affecting seafood processing and handling, all from the effects of catching/harvesting ground to the development of marine products and their effect on the human body during their consumption.Amongst covered topics are processing novelties and optimization, robotics and automation within seafood processing, technical advances in quality analytics, novelties in product development including 3D food printing from marine resources, fish protein and peptide processing, micro-plastics hazards in the marine food chains, marine bioactive compounds, as well as characterization, processing and product development of marine raw materials and underutilized side streams. Learning outcomes:After completing this course students should be able to:Describe the newest developments within technological, processing and product development of marine raw materialsIdentify and describe the main processing steps and their effect on quality and safety of marine productsIdentify side streams and underutilized raw materials from marine resourcesDiscuss possible product developments of underutilized raw materials from marine resourcesDiscuss and critically assess environmental and health impacts on marine products, such as the introduction of micro-plastics into the food chain etc.Demonstrate familiarity with the newest products development trends from marine resources, such as 3D printing, fish protein processing and more.Apply and evaluate gained knowledge in a case-based project and report writing See more information in the UGLA course catalogue

Aurora course at UI Autumn semester 2026: UAU129F Sustainable finance

Course description:In this course students develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between environmental science and financial markets. Students learn current methods for structuring green and sustainable finance frameworks, issuance process, certification. This course covers main methods and concepts related to impact reports. Students learn how sustainable finance frameworks are used in practice after issuance within financial institutions. This course covers ESG risk assessments, main methods and practical use in the investment process and portfolio structuring. This course covers main indicators reported by financial institutions regarding their loan and investment portfolios, i.e., GAR (green asset ratio) and BTAR (book taxonomy aligned ratio). This course covers different types of climate risks as defined by the TCFD (Task force on climate related financial disclosures). Students learn about responsible and impact investment methodologies and the goals investors seek using such methodologies. This course covers the legal requirements regarding disclosures, in particular the EU Taxonomy and related regulations. Students learn about financed emissions using the PCAF methodology (Partnership for carbon accounting financials). This course will also cover the relationship between the insurance sector and sustainability.Learning outcomes:Students understand main concepts and KPI’s related to sustainable finance.Students can structure a sustainable finance framework and understand main methods used for impact reports.Students understand main laws and regulations related to sustainable financeStudents understand the benefits and drawbacks of ESG risk assessments and can put those to practical use.Students can use sustainability disclosures to structure investment portfolios. See more information in the UGLA course catalogue

Aurora course at UI Autumn semester 2026: SFG003F Sustainability education and leadership

Course description:The main purpose of this course is to provide participants with opportunities to critically analyse institutional and systems approaches based on different types of leadership and ideas of expertise. The concepts of professionalism and professional identity in leadership will be examined, particularly in the field of education and topic on sustainable development. Wicked problems will be defined and discussed, possible solutions identified and what could prevent their progress and how outcomes could be evaluated. Issues of professional learning for change and leadership including taking actions will be discussed and connected to the UN SDGs and eight key competences for sustainability and social entrepreneurship. Attention will be given to professional capital for sustainability with some focus on integrative learning, linking thinking skills and content. The final topic will be a professional development plan putting reflection and self-assessment into structured private plan.Learning outcomes:At the end of the course students can:demonstrate knowledge and understanding of issues and models related to institutional and systems approachesdifferentiate threats and opportunities when working with sustainability in different institutionsanalyse relations among different institutions from a systems approach and apply concepts such as resilience and adaptability.demonstrate familiarity with a range of models and research related to sustainabilityidentify wicked problems inherent in different institutions and on the systemic levelcan engage in difficult dialogue and work with controversial issues in writing and oral debatedebate ideas on change management and educational action for sustainability and related problems and solutions with both specialist and non-specialist audiencesstate a position or present objections, scrutinize assumptions and implications of different ethical perspectivesengage in and interpret academic readings showing autonomy in dialogue within and beyond own subject fieldSee the course in the UGLA course catalogue

Aurora course at UI Autumn semester 2026: MAT706M Biotechnology in food industry

Course description:In this course, students are introduced to biotechnology with a particular emphasis on its application in the food industry. The course covers the fundamental concepts of biotechnology, its development, and how the targeted use of living organisms, especially microorganisms, has created new opportunities to produce foods, ingredients, and bioactive compounds in an efficient and more sustainable manner.The course integrates foundational knowledge in genetics, cell biology, biochemistry, and microbiology with key methods in molecular biology and genetic engineering. Selective breeding is introduced as the earliest form of biotechnology, followed by an overview of how modern genetic engineering enables more targeted and efficient modifications than traditional approaches. In addition, the course addresses bioinformatics, advances in genome sequencing, and the use of genetic databases that form the basis of modern biotechnology.Particular emphasis is placed on examples from current research and industry, providing students with a clear understanding of how theoretical knowledge in biotechnology is directly applied to the development of foods, raw materials, and sustainable production processes. Upon completion of the course, students will understand how biotechnology is applied in the modern food industry and the scientific and technological foundations that enable innovation and value creation.Learning outcomes:have a solid understanding of the fundamental concepts of biotechnology and its role in the modern food industry.understand the role of biotechnology in the modern food industry.be able to explain how the targeted use of living organisms, particularly microorganisms, is applied in the production of foods, ingredients, and bioactive compounds.be able to explain the principles of selective breeding, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics, and their relevance to food science.be able to describe key methods in molecular biology and genetic engineering and evaluate their application in the food industry.be able to analyze and interpret real-world examples from research and industry where biotechnology is applied.be able to link theoretical knowledge to the practical development of foods, ingredients, and sustainable production processes.be able to critically discuss the role of biotechnology in innovation, sustainability, and value creation in the food industry.Course scheduleWeekly online lectures (twice a week) with real time participation2 September to 20 November 2026Final oral examination online in early December (dates TBD).Practical on-site session in Reykjavík, Iceland26-30 October 2026 @Matís labThis is a BIP course delivered by the University of Iceland in collaboration with the University of Rovira i Virgili and Palacký University Olomouc.See the course in the UGLA course catalogue

Expanding Scholarly Horizons (University of Duisburg-Essen, October 2026)

An international workshop for researchers from across the Aurora universities, offering a week of interdisciplinary collaboration, networking, and research dialogue across disciplines and Educational Hubs. Participants will have the opportunity to develop ideas for joint teaching and research projects, expand their international academic networks, and engage with emerging scholars participating in the Rising Voices: Emerging Scholars Forum BIP. Participants will also have the opportunity to take part in the 3MT (Three Minute Thesis) competition, which will take place on 9 October 2026 at LeseRaum in Essen.Target group: Academic staffOn-site session: 5–9 October 2026Location: University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, GermanyApplication deadline: 31 July 2026Application process: Registration is open via email at shortmobility@uni-due.de.Further information: See the Aurora website.This course is eligible for Erasmus+ funding. Further information on Erasmus+ grants for staff can be found here: Erasmus + grants for staff.

BIP on Inclusive Comprehensive Internationalisation (Universitat Rovira i Virgili, November 2026)

This opportunity is an Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) based on the Inclusive Comprehensive Internationalisation (ICI) project. It supports participants in leading inclusive internationalisation initiatives within their home institutions. The programme addresses topics such as cultural dimensions in higher education, institutional self-assessment, inclusion, and approaches to fostering internationalisation that benefits the entire university community. The on-site component is organised as a “Train the Trainers” staff training programme, providing participants with the tools needed to implement and promote the ICI approach within their own institutions.Target group: Academic staff, administrative staff, institutional leaders, and professionals working in the fields of internationalisation, inclusion, diversity, and equity.Online sessions: 8, 15 and 22 October, and 19 November 2026On-site session: 2–6 November 2026Location: Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), Tarragona, SpainApplication deadline: 24 July 2026Application process: Registration takes place through the URV registration form. Participants will be notified of the selection results on 30 July 2026, and the application process through the URV platform will take place between 26 August and 8 September 2026.Further information: See the URV website.This course is eligible for Erasmus+ funding. Further information on Erasmus+ grants for staff can be found here: Erasmus + grants for staff.

UP Young Researcher Grant Competition – Call for applications

Palacký University Olomouc invites applications to the UP Young Researcher Grant Competition, open to candidates from Aurora partner and associated universities.This programme is aimed at early-career researchers (under 38, Ph.D. within the last 8 years) with a strong international research profile. Selected applicants from Aurora universities can receive up to €205,000 to establish new research teams or laboratories and develop high-quality international projects over a 36-month period in Olomouc.Applications are open until 22 June 2026, with results announced on 1 November 2026 and projects starting 1 January 2027.The call is open to researchers who:are under 38 years of age,obtained their Ph.D. within the last 8 years,have an excellent research track record,collaborate internationally,and have completed an international research stay of at least 3 months.Further details, including application materials and documentation, are available here. For more information, prospective applicants can contact veronika.knichalova@upol.cz.

Aurora Opportunities

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The Aurora universities offer many exciting opportunities for their students and staff across the universities to develop their skills. Additionally, there are opportunities to impact the development of the Aurora collaboration.

Upcoming opportunities are listed below. You can also find a complete overview of courses at the Aurora universities in the Aurora course catalogue on the central Aurora website. Other opportunities such as seminars, workshops and shorter training can also be found on the central Aurora website.

If the opportunities include trips abroad, you can contact aurora@hi.is to find out whether mobility grants are available.

Seizmic hackathon “Rethinking Food Systems in the Anthropocene” (see course description here)
Level of study: Master’s but open to undergraduate students if nomination slots are available
Credits: 3 ECTS
Virtual teaching: 28 September – 16 October
On-site component in Naples: 19-23 October
Application deadline: 9 September

Students apply for a nomination via the Ugla exchange application portal, here. Students should specify the name of the course in the comments of their application.

Students will be informed of the results of their application within two weeks of the application deadline and will need to comply with the receiving institution's guidelines regarding registration. This may include following up on their nomination by turning in a separate application through the receiving institution’s system’s.

This application is also an application for an Erasmus+ grant. Each undergraduate or master’s student can only receive one Aurora/Erasmus+ mobility grant per academic year. Please note that applicants must contact their faculty’s International Coordinator for information on whether the course can be evaluated into their studies at University of Iceland.

The applicant must be an active, registered student at the University of Iceland and must have paid the registration fee. Students graduating before the end of courses, exchange students and guest students at University of Iceland cannot apply. Further prerequisites for exchange studies can be found on the University of Iceland website.

AI & Ethics at Palacký University Olomouc (see course description here)
Level of study: Master’s and third-year undergraduate students
Credits: 6 ECTS
Virtual teaching: 19 October – 7 December
On-site component in Olomouc, Czechia: 2-6 November
Application deadline: 14 September

Students apply for a nomination via the Ugla exchange application portal, here. Students should specify the name of the course in the comments of their application.

Open to first- and second-year Master students from Aurora universities, this Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) is organised by the UNESCO Chair at the AEI International School of Université Paris-Est Créteil (UPEC), together with Università Federico II of Naples and Copenhagen Business School. Focused in the field of study in business, design, economy and futures, this BIP consists of both virtual and in-person sessions on key concepts related to bioeconomy, sociobiodiversity, futures thinking and anticipation.

The virtual component will take place on 19 and 23 October 2026, and will consist of introductory online sessions delivered by lecturers from the four partner universities and invited speakers. During this period, students will work with short preparatory readings and online activities before the on-site group work from 26 to 30 October 2026 at UPEC.

This BIP offers 4 ECTS and requires a minimum English language level of B2. The course also responds to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals SDG 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Students apply for a nomination via the Ugla exchange application portal, here. Students should specify the name of the course in the comments of their application.

Further information on the Aurora central website.

Apply here in Ugla.

The main focus will be on engaging as many new academics as possible, especially colleagues who have had little or no involvement with Aurora so far. Through dedicated matchmaking sessions and facilitated workshops, the event will encourage participants to network with like-minded academics from other Aurora institutions and to develop new Aurora education initiatives, such as BIPs, COILs, micro-credentials, and more.

Registration will commence in August. Interested academics are encouraged to contact the Aurora team at aurora@hi.is

This Lunch Talk Series is a monthly online space dedicated to sharing experiences, exchanging ideas, and discussing key topics in the field of internationalisation across and among the Aurora institutions.

The Lunch Talk are designed as an informal, interactive get-together where we can learn from one another and explore good practices emerging across the alliance. Each session will start with a presentation by two selected experts followed by a Q&A -we encourage active participation!

When and where?

The Lunch Talks take place every first Tuesday of the month (via ZOOM), from 13:00 to 14:00 CET, throughout the Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter terms of 2026.

No registration is required — simply drop in!

Join the sessions on Zoom: Meeting ID: 638 6513 1075, Passcode: 861977

Fall/Winter 2026 Programme

1 September 2026
Inclusive ComprehensiveInternationalisationin Aurora
Martina Buranova (UPOL) and Marina Vives (URV)-introduced by Patricia Carvalho (UNINA)

6 October 2026
How to engage your student community in Aurora opportunities
Aurora Student Ambassador and HanusPatera (UPOL) –introduced by Jordi Serra (URV)

10 November 2026
Takeaways from the Aurora Academic Matchmaking Event
Sylvester Draaijer (VU), introduced by UPOL

1 December 2026
Aurora Virtual Campus (TBC)

This Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) supports participants in developing research projects, preparing grant applications, publishing academic papers, and strengthening international research collaboration.

Target group: Academic staff, doctoral candidates, early-career researchers, and academic staff entering a new research field who wish to strengthen their research, publishing, and project development skills.

Online session: 24 November 2026

On-site session: 30 November – 4 December 2026 (5 days)

Location: Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic

Application deadline: 15 October 2026

Application process: Applications should be submitted to Marie Sieberová (marie.sieberova@upol.cz). Applicants are required to submit an Erasmus+ Mobility Agreement for Training as part of their application. The template is available on the University of Iceland International Office website for Erasmus+ staff grants (see link below).

Further information: See the UPOL workshop webpage for additional details.

This course is eligible for Erasmus+ funding. Further information on Erasmus+ grants for staff can be found here: Erasmus+ grants for staff.

Aurora Opportunities

Seizmic hackathon “Rethinking Food Systems in the Anthropocene” - apply by 9 September

AI & Ethics - apply by 14 September

BIP: Futures of Bioeconomy of Sociobiodiversity - apply by 25 September

Aurora Academic Matchmaking Event will take place at Palacky University Olomouc, Czech Republic, on 3–4 November 2026

Aurora Lunch Talk Series 2026 (throughout the year)

Workshop for Researchers: Turning Research Ideas into Projects, Publications and Partnerships (Palacký University Olomouc, November–December 2026)

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