Mirja Illikainen appointed Vice Rector for Education

Mirja Illikainen is the Dean of the Faculty of Technology and a Professor of inorganic materials in circular economy. After completing her PhD at the University of Oulu, Illikainen worked as a university lecturer for 6 years and as a professor for 9 years. She has served as Dean and member of the University's Management Group since 2022. Her research focuses on the utilization of industrial wastes and residues in construction materials. Illikainen is also an alumna of the University of Oulu.

Eleven people applied for the position, and 3 of them were interviewed by a recruitment group set up by the Rector.

The current Vice Rector for Education, Tapio Koivu, is changing jobs. He will start as Chief Executive Officer of the Center for the Promotion of Electrical Engineering and Energy Efficiency STEK ry on 1 March 2024.

The Vice Rector for Education is responsible for the management of education at university level. She also acts as second deputy to the Rector. In accordance with the university's strategy, the key development themes for the forthcoming Vice Rector's term will include ensuring the quality of education provision and the link between education and cutting-edge research, and developing students' study paths and learning experience.