Press Release

Pekka Santtila and Gunilla Widén remain in the running for Rector at Åbo Akademi University 

Åbo Akademi University is seeking a new rector for the period August 1, 2026− July 31, 2030. Of the eleven applicants, Gunilla Widén and Pekka Santtila are moving forward in the recruitment process.

Pekka Santtila is a professor of psychology at NYU Shanghai and an internationally recognized researcher in forensic psychology. He is an alumnus of Åbo Akademi University and has previously served as professor and dean at Åbo Akademi University, with extensive experience in academic leadership both in Finland and internationally. Santtila is also an adjunct professor at Åbo Akademi University and East China Normal University.

As a researcher, Santtila is particularly focused on interview methodology, AI-assisted decision-making, and learning through simulations. At NYU Shanghai, he has served as Head of Social Sciences, Chair of the university’s Research Ethics Committee, and elected Chair of the Faculty Council.

Gunilla Widén is a Professor of Information Studies at Åbo Akademi University and has served as Acting Rector since April 2025. She has a solid research background with a PhD from Åbo Akademi University, over 120 publications, as well as supervision of several doctoral students. Her research has been strongly connected to societal information environments, and she has been active in international collaborations.

Widén has extensive experience in academic leadership, in addition to her current role as Acting Rector, including positions such as Vice Rector for Education, Vice Dean, and Head of Subject. She is a Docent at Tampere University.

Staff and students at Åbo Akademi University will have the opportunity to meet the finalists at a Q&A session organized by the University Collegiate Body’s Q&A-session on January 14, 2026.

The rector is chosen by the Åbo Akademi University Board. The Board will discuss the matter of electing a new Rector at its meeting on 27 January 2026.