The process for appointing a new Rector has begun

The next Rector and two Vice-Rectors of the University of Tampere are to be chosen in February. The period during which eligible individuals may declare their candidacy is ongoing and terminates on 18 December.

The Rector will be chosen by an electoral college on 3 February 2009. The term of office of the Rector and Vice-Rectors will commence on 1 August 2009. Under the current legislation the term of office for the Rector is five years. However, the forthcoming amendment to the Universities Act may affect the length of the next Rector's term in office, likewise the tasks involved.

The University Board will select the Vice-Rectors on the proposal of the Rector from among those who have declared their candidacy. A potential rector should announce his/her proposed vice-rectors prior to the election.

The Rector leads and develops the operations of the University and is responsible for its productivity. The Rector also chairs the University Board. The person appointed is required to hold a doctoral degree, or to have been appointed a professor to a university and to have demonstrated good leadership skills in practice.

The Vice-Rectors are required to have been appointed to a research or teaching position at the University of Tampere, to hold doctoral degrees or to have produced theses entitling them to the title of doctor. The tasks of the Vice Rectors are determined by the Rector. Currently one of the Vice-Rectors is primarily concerned with teaching, while the other is concerned with research. The tasks of the Vice-Rectors are taken care of over and above the individuals' own regular work.

Photo Pasi Järvenpää