University of Oulu rector selection advances to interviews

The Board assessed the applicants’ qualifications, competencies and experience based on the application documents. The successful candidate is expected to possess the capabilities, professional expertise and proven leadership skills required for the position, hold a doctoral degree, and demonstrate excellent proficiency in both Finnish and English.

The most important criterion in selecting candidates for interview was experience of academic leadership in senior university leadership positions or faculty leadership roles.

Particular emphasis was placed on experience as a rector, vice rector or dean, as well as demonstrated ability to lead research, education and societal engagement. In addition, the Board evaluated the applicants’ academic merits, experience as professors, and leadership experience in research and expert organisations. A total of 19 individuals applied for the position.

“We are extremely pleased with the highly qualified and diverse group of applicants attracted to this position, and I would like to warmly thank all applicants for their interest in leading the University of Oulu. The candidates invited for interview stood out particularly because of their strong experience in university-level leadership. The Board believes that they have the strongest credentials among the applicants to lead the University of Oulu during the next five-year term,” says Leena Nissilä, Chair of the University Board.

Mika Grundström serves as Vice President for Research at the University of Vaasa. Previously, he worked as an Industry Professor at Tampere University and as Dean of the Faculty of Information Technology and Communication Sciences at Tampere University of Technology.

Jyri Hämäläinen serves as Vice President for Research at Aalto University and previously served as Dean of the School of Electrical Engineering. Hämäläinen is Professor of Wireless & Mobile Communications.

Mirja Illikainen serves as Vice Rector for Education at the University of Oulu and previously served as Dean of the Faculty of Technology. Illikainen is Professor of Inorganic Materials in Circular Economy.

Antti Syväjärvi serves as Rector of the University of Lapland and previously served as Vice Rector for Research and Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences. Syväjärvi is Professor of Administrative Sciences.

In addition to the interviews, the selection process includes psychological and leadership assessments. As part of the process, the leading candidates will present themselves to the university community at an event on 16 October. The candidates will also meet representatives of the University Collegium and the Student Union. The University Board is expected to make its decision on the appointment of the Rector in November. The new Rector will take office on 1 January 2027, or as otherwise agreed.