The Rector

The Rector

The Rector is the students’ representative, particularly in welfare matters, and sits on University Court. They are independent to the Students' Union and the University, allowing them to better represent the student body.

This means that they ensure all voices are heard and represented when making important decisions that affect students.

They can champion student causes and can make sure that these issues are fully aired in Court. The Rector of the University of Aberdeen is elected by the registered students of the University.

Our current Rector is Martina Chukwuma-Ezike. Her term ends on 31 December 2024.

Iona Fyfe will take up her 3 year term on 1 January 2025.

 

2024 Rector Nomination Process

Download and follow the steps in the nomination pack 

The Rules and Protocols can be found here

Elections Committee

The Election Committee:

  • The University Secretary (or in their absence, the Deputy Secretary) (to chair the committee)
  • A Senate Assessor
  • The University Court’s EDI champion
  • An elected staff Senator
  • The Student President
  • Students’ Union Chief Executive
  • Wellbeing and Engagement Manager 

Returning Officer:

The University Secretary (or in their absence, the Deputy Secretary)

Election Timetable

Call for nominations opens

9am on Monday 28 October 2024

Call for nominations closes

1pm on Thursday 7 November 2024 

Briefing meeting

2pm on Friday 8 November 2024 all nominations remain to be validated, and must be supported by 25 Nominations.

Electronic campaigning open

12.01pm on Monday 11 November 2024

Physical campaigning open

12.01am on Monday 18 November 2024

Voting opens

9am on Tuesday 19 November 2024

Voting closes

5pm on Thursday 21 November 2024

Results declared

Provisionally at 6pm on Thursday 21 November 2024

New Rector to take up office

1 January 2024

Rules and Protocols

For further information email rectorelection@abdn.ac.uk

The Clerk to Senate, Rachael Bernard is responsible for the organisation of the Election, and has nominated Karen Scaife to act on her behalf for all issues referred to in these rules. You can contact Karen or Rachael  via rectorelection@abdn.ac.uk

Interesting Facts and Historical Information

The Rector of the University of Aberdeen is an ancient post with a rich tradition and the role has been held by many esteemed people throughout the years, including Winston Churchill, Andrew Carnegie, Herbert Henry Asquith and Clarissa Dickson Wright. Our most recent Rector was Maggie Chapman (2014 - 2021).

The following document was produced by the Scottish Rectors' Group 2007 and provides some more in-depth information, including the history and role of University Rectors in Scotland, and the role of the Rector's Assessor.