Professor Hermundur Sigmundsson at the University of Iceland and the NTNU University in Norway will head the research center along with a number of experts from both universities. The research will focus primarily at basic proficiency in reading, writing, math and the natural sciences. There will also be an emphasis on research in the fields of exercise and cognitive functioning and the importance of passion, intellectual growth and flow of information within the academic environment. A special focus will be placed on promoting a close collaboration between the business sectors, regional governments and schools in rural areas. The research center will provide its expertise and results to the wider community and serve in an advisory capacity for the local governments. The research center could also participate in the development of scholarly materials in the fields of reading, writing, math and the natural sciences for the youngest grade levels in elementary school or the oldest levels of primary school.
