Rector Magnificus Karen Maex elected LERU chair

Karen Maex (photo: Sander Nieuwenhuys) - Prof. Karen Maex, rector magnificus of the University of Amsterdam, has been elected as the new chair of the League of European Research Universities (LERU), the network of 23 research-intensive European universities. Her appointment was confirmed at the organisation's spring Assembly, which took place on 21 and 22 May. She takes over the reins from Prof. Jean Chambaz, outgoing president of Sorbonne University. 'I'm delighted to be taking on this role at this challenging time for Europe's universities,' Maex said. 'As we emerge from the pandemic and further re-open our campuses, we are committed to doing all we can to help set Europe on the road to recovery.' Looking forward, Maex emphasised the contribution of the LERU universities to addressing large-scale, worldwide challenges such as climate change, sustainability and poverty. 'Finding solutions for such problems in society can only be based on independent high-quality research, education and innovation,' she said. 'In a changing landscape, LERU will maintain a strong position that helps universities live up to this mission, based on their track record in academic excellence.' Among LERU's priorities for the years ahead are the European Knowledge Area, the data revolution, the green and digital transformation of universities, and global interdisciplinary collaboration on large-scale societal challenges, including related security issues.