The rector of the University of Lausanne, Frédéric Herman, will not seek a second term at the head of the Lausanne alma mater. According to information from RTS, the geology professor informed the university community of his choice in writing on Wednesday. From July 2026, the professor of Belgian origin will devote himself solely to his scientific projects in the field of glacial erosion.
This announcement came as a surprise to Dorigny. The academic world expected him to serve a second term, having been elected in 2021.
In his e-mail sent Wednesday, which the RTS obtained, the current rector says he thought about it for a long time and finally decided “to engage in new scientific explorations and pursue objectives that are close to my heart in my field research”.
Tense climate
His decision comes at a time when the climate is rather difficult at UNIL. According to the RTS, tensions with the University Council which brings together the intermediate body, professors, administrative staff and students are high.
The Dorigny site was also at the heart of the news with the occupation of part of its premises by pro-Palestinian activists. Frédéric Herman then said in an interview with Temps that it was essential for him to maintain the dialogue. A position which was not unanimous within the alma mater, with some accusing it of being too open towards these demonstrators and other groups active at the University of Lausanne.
Contacted by RTS, the canton of Vaud salutes the work of Frédéric Herman: “as large institutions, national and international, Universities are regularly the subject of concerns and questions, UNIL is no exception”, noted the spokesperson for the Vaud Department of Education and Training. “The Department thanks the management and the various governing bodies of the University for their work, for the work that remains to be done and for the numerous collaborations.”
The race to succeed Frédéric Herman will begin very quickly and promises to be eventful.
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