The Rector is chair of the University Council, the University's most senior administrator, and the University's ultimate representative and advocate in dealings with individuals and institutions within and outside the University. The rector presides over University operations and initiates institution-wide policy-making by the University Council. Between University Council meetings, the rector holds decision-making power in all University matters.
The role of the rector is in accordance with the Act on Public Higher Education Institutions, no. 85/2008.
The rector is appointed for five years by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation after being elected by the University community.
Dr. Silja Bára R. Ómarsdóttir took office as Rector of the University of Iceland on 1 July 2025, becoming the second woman in the university's history to hold this position.
Silja Bára brings decades of academic and leadership experience to the role. Her research has focused on Icelandic foreign and security policy, Arctic politics, and gender and security studies.
Known for her commitment to academic excellence, inclusive governance, and social responsibility, Silja Bára is dedicated to further strengthening the university's position, both national and internationally.
© Kristinn Ingvarsson | Háskóli Íslands
Request of better quality pictures may be sent to: skjalasafn@hi.is
Further information shortly.
