Rectorate of the University of Lausanne

The new Rectorate – the governing body of the University of Lausanne – began its five-year term of office on 1 August 2021 and is led by the Rector, Frédéric Herman. Most members of the Rectorate come from the academic world, ensuring a broad representation of the Faculties.

Among other things, the Rectorate is responsible for organising and managing the administration of the University and overseeing the organisation and administration of the Faculties. It defines and implements UNIL's general and long-term policy and builds the structures needed to exploit the results of research.

At the start of its term, the Rectorate prepares a Statement of Intent, which is submitted to the University Council for approval, so that the multi-year Strategic Plan can be negotiated with the Departments for submission to the State Council.

The Rectorate may negotiate and enter into inter-university collaboration agreements, after consulting the Faculties concerned. It also appoints Deans, ratifies regulations and hires Full Professors on the recommendation of the Faculty Councils. All its powers are set out in Article 24 of the University of Lausanne Act (LUL).

Appointed every five years by the Council of State on the proposal of the University Council, the Rector is responsible for appointing a maximum of seven Vice Rectors. The UNIL Council approved the choice of Frédéric Herman on 25 February 2021. His term of office will end on 31 July 2026.