Sports Research and Innovation Institute will strive for international recognition and attention from business
2013 11 05
Even though Sports Research and Innovation Institute has just made its first steps, the Institute's Director Senior Researcher Sigitas Kamandulis is sure that it is important not only for the university. According to the director, the establishment of the Institute is just the beginning and top priority must be given to clear vision and recruitment of scientific staff.
The director Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sigitas Kamandulis was interviewed on Sports Research and Innovation Institute of Lithuanian Sports University (LSU).
Why was the institute established and what is its vision?
The institute was created merging four laboratories of the university: Centre for Fundamental and Clinical Human Movement Research, Laboratory of Kinesiology, Laboratory of Research and Studies in Adapted Physical Activity and Laboratory of Physical Activity Epidemiology as well as Wellness Center Facility Usage for Research.
The main goal of our Institute is to carry out as much quality research as possible, proceed experimental development, actively interact with the social partners and introduce the capabilities of LSU researchers. Research has to be attractive for the business and society and our researchers have to be able to implement the tasks. Now 19-20 scientists from different laboratories will work together, discuss research reports and assess the work carried out.
What will your first steps be like?
The first steps will be to promote cooperation with international scientific community. We have strong relations with famous scientists and I intend to promote our collaboration as well as look for partners in Lithuania. When the research is conducted in cooperation with scientists from other institutions, it reduces the costs of the experiments and enhances their value. It is vital to have talented people working in our Institute. Therefore, more attention should be paid to selection of scientists and improvement of their qualifications. Moreover, I see a lot of possibilities to use science resources properly and earn more money for the University.
What research can be offered to business sector?
Currently our scientists are cooperating with business on the modern orthopedic and rehabilitation means cluster. They are working with specialists from 10 companies on a knee brace with ultrasound, heating/cooling, electronic stimulation and laser technologies. Such device would help people recover from knee injuries. LSU scientists are going to conduct research commissioned by the company „Ortopagalba“. Special insoles for shoes are being created which will prevent feet of people participating in sports from harm. We also conduct research commissioned by sports clubs and this is only a few examples. We specialize in two areas – sports and wellness; the university has equipment sufficient to conduct objective research.
What are your expectations?
I would love to see extended project activities and demand for research. We have to be responsible, earn money for the university to be able to develop sports science. This is an appendage to fundamental research; that is only natural that the administration staff of the university encourages scientists to increase the number of scientific publications in ISI Web of Science databases and carry out as much quality research as possible. That is a very important commitment.
Thank you.
