Ingibjörg Gunnarsdóttir the new pro-rector for science

Ingibjörg Gunnarsdóttir, professor of nutrition at the University of Iceland's Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, has been appointed pro-rector for science at the University. She assumes the post 1 July, taking over from Guðbjörg Linda Rafnsdóttir who has been pro-rector for science at the University of Iceland for the past seven years. Guðbjörg Linda will return to her tenure as professor at the Faculty of Sociology, Anthropology and Folkloristics where she will lead extensive research projects supported by Horizon Europe on the use of AI in industry; with a focus on mannagement and hiring. Eight other European countries take part in the study.

Ingibjörg completed a BS degree in food science from the University of Iceland in 1987, a Masters degree in nutrition from the University of Iceland in 1999, and a PhD in 2003. She took an active part in the development of the Unit for Nutrition Research (RIN) at the University of Iceland and the Landspítali University Hospital during her studies and has been chair of the Unit since 2013. Ingibjörg has been a professor at the University of Iceland since 2010.

Ingibjörg has been involved in diverse research in the field of nutrition in collaboration with both domestic and international research teams. She has primarily studied the nutritional status of vulnerable groups, with main emphasis on pregnant women.

Ingibjörg has, furthermore, received numerous grants and acknowledgements for her work and studies, including the Science and Technology Policy Council's Motivation Awards in 2014. She is the author of numerous international peer-reviewed scientific articles and has been active in current social discussions and the dissemination of nutritional information to the public. Ingibjörg has held diverse positions within and outside of the University. She was also the vice-chair of the University Council from 2018 to 2022.

"I look forward to working on new challenges in collaboration with a dynamic group of administrators and University staff," says Ingibjörg.

„I would like to thank Ingibjörg sincerely for taking on this important post. Her extensive work experience, both within and outside the University of Iceland will be beneficial for the University. She will be a great asset for our community and on the administrative team,“ says Jón Atli Benediktsson, rector of the University of Iceland.

Two pro-rectors are appointed at the University of Iceland, pro-rector for academic affairs and development, and pro-rector for science, and they are chosen from academics at the University of Iceland. Pro-rectors work part-time, with research duties, but Rector issues a formal statement on their duties.