Jacob Graff Nielsen becomes the new dean at Aalborg University
After more than 12 years as dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Copenhagen, Jacob Graff Nielsen has decided to seek new challenges in North Jutland.
Jacob Graff Nielsen will take up his post as the new Dean of The Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities at Aalborg University on 1 October 2026.
- I have had 12 exciting and incredibly rewarding years as Dean of the Faculty of Law at the University of Copenhagen. Therefore, it is not without a touch of sadness that I am now leaving the University of Copenhagen, but I am looking forward to – along with my family – returning to North Jutland, where my roots lie. I have been at the University of Copenhagen for more than 28 years in various roles and have had the privilege of working in both legal research and management at the University, tackling a wealth of fascinating challenges alongside talented, dedicated and wonderful colleagues. It has been an exceptional privilege to have been involved in developing legal research and education at the University of Copenhagen over so many years. I have now been given the opportunity to begin a new chapter in my professional life with a broader focus on the social sciences and the humanities, and I am very much looking forward to it, says Jacob Graff Nielsen.
Thank you for your efforts
Jacob Graff Nielsen will remain in post until 30 September. Thereafter, Kristian Lauta, Prorector for Education, will be appointed acting Dean of the Faculty of Law until further notice. Kristian Lauta will continue to fulfil his role as Prorector at the same time.
Rector David Dreyer Lassen says:
- On behalf of the entire University of Copenhagen management – both past and present – I would like to take this opportunity to thank Jacob for his tremendous efforts over the years. Both as a prominent leader of the faculty and within the university management, where he has maintained a strong focus on the University of Copenhagen as a whole. Most recently, he has been a tireless champion of the sustainability agenda at UCPH, representing the entire management team. We have a great deal of experience and leadership to replace. I would like to wish Jacob every success in this exciting new role.
See also the announcement on AAU’s website.