The main purpose for the research activity at Stavanger University Hospital is to improve patient treatment. The hospital has identified five focus areas for its research activity. These are Psychiatry, Cardiology, Neurology, Acute Care Medicine and Cancer.

Commercializing research
One of the objectives in the strategic plan for research is that Stavanger University Hospital shall contribute to the regional business development. Through cooperation with regional participants we attempt to ensure that the research results with commercial potential reach the market. SUH has entered into a partnership with the company Prekubator to enhance and stimulate the commercialization of research results. The hospital also cooperates with Stavanger Helseforskning and Hjertelaget Research Foundation who both performs and administrates clinical research.