Sigríður Lára Guðmundsdóttir is the new Head of Research Services at Reykjavik University. Sigríður Lára holds a PhD in Health Sciences and has extensive experience in research and innovation both in the general labour market and within the academic community. Her main focus in research is on building an inspiring environment and creating space for advancement. 

Sigríður Lára is very excited about her new role at RU:

I see Reykjavik University as a progressive and exciting workplace with great potential in research and innovation. Having worked both as an academic and in the innovation sector, I believe my experience and knowledge can contribute to strengthening the university’s research environment, supporting scientists, and increasing the societal impact of our research. I am very much looking forward to working with excellent colleagues and being part of building an even stronger Research Service.

Previously, Sigríður Lára worked at Sidekick Health, a company specializing in digital health solutions. There, she was responsible for the strategy and execution of clinical and real-world studies, funding, research design and management in collaboration with stakeholders, communication with national and international experts in the field, overseeing data analysis, and publishing scientific articles and conference presentations. 

When it comes to challenges in her work, Sigríður Lára is most drawn to those that call for innovation and collaboration to improve research and increase the impact of science: 

I am very interested in finding ways to support young scientists, strengthen collaboration between units and with external partners. I particularly enjoy solving issues that require interdisciplinary solutions and creative thinking,” says Sigríður Lára. 

She has always had a strong interest in science, physical activity, and health: 

That’s why I originally chose to study sports science, and later my interest developed into health sciences. I clearly remember sitting in a lecture during my first year of sports science at NTNU in Trondheim, where Professor Dr. Liv Berit Augestad challenged prevailing views on women’s physical activity. I was fascinated by her approach, and a few years later she became my doctoral supervisor in health sciences. That gave me the opportunity to develop my research skills, which have been invaluable to me ever since.”

Increased collaboration, innovation, and the impact of research are priorities for Sigríður Lára:

I also look forward to working with amazing people from different fields and learning from them, and I expect this job to be both rewarding and challenging. Above all, I want the Research Service to be a place where everyone with an interest in research feels welcome, encouraged, and properly supported,” says Sigríður Lára in conclusion.