Jón Atli Benediktsson, Rector of the University of Iceland, sent the following message to new students  (19 August 2020):

"Dear new student,

This is an exciting milestone in your life. Higher education is challenging under normal circumstances, but right now it is especially hard to take your first steps as a university student. Due to COVID-19, the situation is completely different to anything we have previously faced. Nevertheless, we will all do our utmost to make sure you have the best experience possible and that together we can foster the incredible spirit that characterises everything we do here at the University of Iceland.

Premature death is more common among women who have experienced the loss of a child than other women, in accordance with new research conducted by scientists at the University of Iceland and deCODE Genetics, which looked at all parents in Iceland over the last two centuries. The findings were reported in the latest issue of the journal eLife, which was published recently.

Many research projects have revealed a link between child loss and increased risk of mental illness, heart disease and even certain types of cancer. Research also indicates an increased risk of premature maternal death following child loss, whether by suicide or natural causes. 

Have you ever run into someone and had the feeling that you know them from somewhere, but can't remember where? It's a common experience. Most of us meet a huge number of people over the course of our lives and few of us will remember all their faces. Some people, however, are exceptionally good at recognising people while others are completely face blind. Both of these extremes come into a new study by researchers at the University of Iceland Faculty of Psychology. They are now looking for participants for a study looking into how well people recognise faces.

You can take part in the research here.

Researchers at the Earth Science Institute of the University of Iceland and the Icelandic Meteorological Office, in collaboration with international partners, have employed advanced technology to analyse volcanic gases at the Fagradalsfjall eruption site, providing a clearer picture of the tunnel systems and lava fountains at eruption site. Their findings were published in the prestigious journal Nature Communications last month.

The three eruptions at Reykjanes Peninsula have captured significant public attention, showcasing majestic lava fountains. The eruptions have also provided scientists with a unique opportunity to study the nature and behaviour of volcanic activity. 

One focus of the investigation has been the volcanic gas released during these eruptions. The gas is a key factor in influencing volcanic behaviour and determining whether an eruption will be effusive or explosive.