New rector Jens Kreisel appeals to high ambition and team spirit

Prof. Jens Kreisel, new Rector of the University of Luxembourg since January 2023, gave his inaugural speech at the traditional New Year's reception for staff. In front of around 500 researchers, teachers and administrative employees he presented his vision for the future of the University.

"Our university can already look back on a successful history for Luxembourg, and is full of ambition. It is an honour and a privilege for me to continue to write this history, to promote and stimulate cutting-edge international research, innovative teaching and service to society”, the rector said.

Born in Germany’s Ruhr area, Prof. Jens Kreisel emphasised the parallels with Luxembourg and its structural shift towards a knowledge society. “I grew up close to the blast furnaces and saw how industrial wastelands became technology parks. I have lived in Luxembourg with my family for ten years now and I feel at home here.”

As the engine of the national research system and strategic instrument of the country, the University will contribute to tackling the pressing issues of our times with education, research and innovation, and support Luxembourg and society in general on its way into the future. The core topics associated with these missions will be the digital transformation, health and medicine as well as sustainable and societal development. To fulfil these missions, Prof. Jens Kreisel relies above all on cooperation and interdisciplinary research approaches. “My goal is a collaborative university. I played handball for 30 years. I know how important teamwork and different talents are for success.”

As a research university, the University of Luxembourg offers students the opportunity to learn from the best in their field. “It is essential to listen to our students and involve them into strategic planning”, the rector said. The generation of digital natives should be listened to, especially in the development of innovative teaching formats, and in making the institution more sustainable.

At a press conference after the inaugural speech, Claude Meisch, Minister for Higher Education and Research, said: "In addition to being an eminent scientist and passionate teacher and mentor, Jens Kreisel has demonstrated as vice-rector for research that he is also an excellent manager. I therefore welcome this appointment, which is conducive to the continued development and excellence of the University of Luxembourg in both research and teaching.”

Massimo Malvetti, Secretary General of the Board of Governors of the University of Luxembourg, said on behalf of Yves Elsen, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the University: "Prof. Jens Kreisel's application stood out as the best in an international recruitment process. The Board of Governors is delighted to give its confidence to an internal member of the university community. As a former PEARL chairholder of the National Research Fund and outgoing vice-rector for research, Prof. Jens Kreisel has a profound knowledge of the University and the country. His national and international experience qualifies him perfectly to lead the only public university in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.”

Photo: © Michel Brumat