Name, title, department:

Jakob Stoustrup, Professor at Department for Electronic Systems

Why do you run for the board?

AAU has a highly diverse staff group with many research and educational environments. Throughout the years, I have had a number of joint managements tasks. These have involved a close contact with many of these environments. Thus, I know the diversity from a close range. I would like to warrant that AAU develops in a direction that facilitate all the diverse competencies we can offer jointly.
 
I have been employed at AAU since 1997 with the exception for a few years of leave. During the Obama Administration in the US, I was headhunted for a major management position regarding sustainable energy. Except for those years, I have been preoccupied with many and very diverse functions at AAU. I have been the Associate Dean for Education and the Associate Dean for Research. I have been responsible for the AAU strategy for digitalization within PBL and education. I have been leading the development of the new AAU Research Indicator, which is currently being implemented. I have also been highly involved in the revision of the AAU Quality Assurance system in order to make that (a little) more relevant and beneficial for the study boards.
 
Recently, I have decided to re-engage in research and education at full time as a professor at the Dept. of Electronic Systems. Apart from that, I am currently leading the AAU Mission for Sustainable Energy.

What, in your view, is AAU's biggest challenge and what is the solution to it?

For many years, AAU's employees have experienced significant and frequent changes. These are typically driven by external circumstances, and it is unlikely that the future won't bring more changes affecting AAU's employees. However, it is crucial that these changes happen with respect for individual employees, and that AAU's leadership succeeds in creating security amidst all the changes.
 
I believe that the approach to achieving this consists of the following elements:
 
Proactive Communication:
AAU should implement a proactive communication strategy to keep employees informed about any change, big or small. Everyone benefits when employees' thoughts and ideas are heard early in a change process.
 
A Healthy University Culture:
AAU should launch initiatives that prioritize a healthy culture between leadership and employees and among employees themselves. AAU's leadership should lead by example in encouraging a culture where we support each other through both good and challenging times.
 
Flexibility and Balance:
AAU should be able to adapt to changing needs. The leadership should develop policies that promote flexibility and a good balance so that employees can thrive both professionally and personally.
 
Continuous Development:
AAU should invest in its employees by creating opportunities for continuous professional and personal development. This not only enhances employees' skills but also shows that AAU is committed to supporting their success, even during times of change.

Why should one vote for you in the board election?

In the coming times, characterized by rapid changes, I, as the employees' representative on AAU's board, will emphasize the importance of ensuring everyone's security and well-being. AAU must face external challenges with a proactive approach to maintain a supportive work environment.
 
To maintain security, I will work towards a culture of openness and transparency. This involves regular communication about changes, no matter how small. I will work to establish clear channels for dialogue so that employees' concerns and suggestions are heard and addressed.
 
The university must adapt to changing circumstances. I will advocate for policies that promote personal priorities and provide flexibility, allowing employees to better manage professional and personal commitments.
 
I aim to ensure that AAU invests in the professional and personal development of all employees. This not only creates more competent employees but also sends a clear signal that the university values and invests in its staff, even in times of change.
 
I want to warrant a safe navigation through challenges and ensure that AAU remains a place where everyone can thrive and grow. I commit to representing the interests of the employees and creating a safe, supportive environment.

What are your key priorities? 

I will work to ensure that:

• All AAU employees have the opportunity to develop their skills in research and education.
• All researchers are supported in securing research funding to realize their exciting research ideas, including assistance in building a strong CV.
• All educators feel part of a creative educational environment, where they collaborate in developing PBL-based educational activities.
• All researchers and educators feel that their skills can contribute to AAU's new mission-based approach.
• All employees, both academic and administrative, perceive AAU as a highly recognized and dynamic university, while also being an exceptionally attractive workplace.