RU Awards 2025

Reykjavik University awards three staff members yearly for achievements in their field in three categories: the RU Teaching Awards, the RU Service Awards and the RU Research Awards. The RU awards are presented to employees who have excelled in development, research, teaching, and student service. They were first presented in 2010.

The RU Awards for 2025 were presented at the annual staff Christmas celebration of Reykjavík University, held last Wednesday. The awards are presented in three categories: Outstanding Teaching, Service, and Research. In addition to the honour itself, award recipients receive a monetary prize and a certificate of recognition.

The RU Awards were first presented in 2010. The selection process is based on nominations from students and staff, with the final decision made by a selection committee that evaluates candidates based on their teaching history, teaching evaluations, research assessments, curriculum vitae, and other relevant information.

RU Teaching Awards

Yngvi Björnsson, Professor in the Department of Computer Science, received the RU Teaching Awards. In students’ nominations, Yngvi is described as an exceptionally patient and dedicated teacher with a strong passion for teaching who inspires students’ interest in the subject matter. One student described him as follows:

I have rarely encountered a teacher as patient and kind. He puts great effort into his teaching, makes assignments engaging, and genuinely helps us learn. He is approachable and always willing to explain the material further; he shows a genuine passion for teaching.

RU Research Awards

Jón Friðrik Sigurðsson, Professor of Psychology, received the RU Research Awards for 2025. He is recognised for decades of ambitious and impactful research and for his key role in shaping and developing the Master’s programme in Psychology at Reykjavík University, where strong emphasis is placed on scientific knowledge and literacy. Jón Friðrik has also played an important role as Chief Psychologist within the psychiatric division of Landspítali – The National University Hospital of Iceland, where he led significant development initiatives aimed at strengthening evidence-based professional practice. Furthermore, he is regarded as a pioneer of forensic psychology in Iceland, thanks to his work with the Icelandic Prison and Probation Administration.

RU Service Awards

Anna Lára Gísladóttir, Project Officer in the Finance Division, received the RU Service Awards for 2025. She is described as an exceptional employee who combines extensive expertise, outstanding service orientation, and professionalism that has a significant impact on daily operations at Reykjavík University. She carries out her work with great precision and dedication, addressing challenges with remarkable calm, organisation, and professionalism.

We warmly congratulate the recipients of the 2025 Reykjavík University Awards on their well-deserved recognition.