Unifying research themes
Maastricht's identity is shaped by its history, location, and the strengths of its people. Maastricht University’s research reflects this, focusing on four key themes linked to the region: Quality of Life, Learning and Innovation, Europe in a Globalising World en Sustainability and Circularity.
These themes address issues such as healthy ageing, climate change, demographic shifts, sustainability, technological advancements, affordable healthy food, and European integration.
Theme 1: Quality of Life
Maastricht is renowned for its joie de vivre—a zest for life. Just as the city and region have become hubs for art, culture, culinary diversity, and year-round festivals, Maastricht University and its partners are dedicated to research that enhances the quality of life, both locally and globally.
From innovative medical research and product development to arts and heritage expertise, civic process improvements, sustainability, and innovations for developing countries, we work to make a positive impact.
Research focuses on demographic changes such as ageing populations, longer working lives, and rapid technological advancements. The goal is to answer the key question: How can we improve quality of life?
Multidisciplinary research will target areas such as ‘Physical Health,’ ‘Psychological Health,’ and ‘Welfare and Well-being’.
Theme 2: Learning and Innovation
At Maastricht University, learning and innovation are central to the development of scientific knowledge. In today’s world, continuous learning and skill development are essential for everyone to reach their full potential.
The Learning & Innovation theme covers research on both practical and theoretical aspects of learning—focusing on current practices as well as new approaches to education.
This research spans from fundamental studies on learning and development in fields like neuropsychology, cognitive neuroscience, and educational psychology, to innovations in higher education, labour economics, and the role of artificial intelligence in the classroom.
Together with EDLAB and various faculties, UM fosters collaborations and supports researchers and practitioners in advancing this vital theme.
Theme 3: Europe and a Globalising World
As the birthplace of the EU and a border city between Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, Maastricht is ideal for studying Europe’s role in a globalised world.
Many UM programmes offer international perspectives, exchanges, and internships. Several research institutes focus on cross-border issues, with UM leading in European law and politics.
Interdisciplinary research at UM examines the EU’s organisation, Europe’s global role, and tensions between cultural memory and diversity. Experts from various fields explore governance challenges and European policy in a global context, with two research lines: "Europe beyond Maastricht" and "Maastricht beyond Europe."
Read the articles about Europe and a Globalising World in UM Web magazine
Theme 4: Sustainability and Circularity
The future of our planet is closely tied to how we live. With growing awareness of the need for sustainable development and broad prosperity, UM aligns its research, education, and activities with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Circularity focuses on material cycles, while sustainability covers people, the environment, and prosperity. This theme spans all faculties, reflecting UM's commitment to social responsibility. UM takes a broad, holistic approach, extending beyond material reuse. Through sustainability research, education, and initiatives like Brightlands, UM is driving the transition to a sustainable, circular society.
The taskforce Sustainable UM 2030 fosters a cross-faculty, interdisciplinary research community focused on sustainability. Read more on Sustainability research.