Professor Haralds Plaudis to assume position of RSU Vice-Rector for Studies

The competition announced by Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) for the vacant position of Vice-Rector for Studies has concluded, and from 11 May this year, Prof. Haralds Plaudis will assume the duties of Vice-Rector for Studies. He graduated from RSU and obtained a Doctor of Medicine degree in 2003, and in 2010 he was awarded a doctoral degree in medicine by RSU.

In his professional and academic development, Prof. Plaudis has expanded his knowledge through international management and healthcare development programmes, including at the Stockholm School of Economics and INSEAD. Plaudis has been a professor at RSU since 2021.

Prof. Plaudis is an outstanding professional in his field, combining strong academic experience, a modern outlook on healthcare, and a deep understanding of the importance of study quality. I am certain that his experience in medicine, science, and healthcare management will make a significant contribution to the development of studies at RSU and the implementation of the university’s strategic goals.

Prof. Aigars Pētersons, Rector, RSU 

Prof. Plaudis is a widely recognised surgeon, researcher, and professor of medical education with many years of experience in both academic and clinical work. He is a professor at the RSU Department of Surgery, a surgeon at the General and Emergency Surgery Clinic of the Riga East Clinical University Hospital, and a member of the Treatment and Care Council. He has previously held several leadership positions in the hospital’s administration. Prof. Plaudis is a recipient of the Pauls Stradiņš Award, an expert in surgery for the Latvian Council of Science, a member and board member of several professional organisations, and the author and co-author of 126 scientific publications. His scientific work focuses on innovative surgical methods and research into the hepatobiliary system, acute pancreatitis, oncology, and other complex clinical conditions.

In the position of Vice-Rector for Studies, Prof. Plaudis will focus on improving study quality, integrating the study process with clinical practice and research, and strengthening a student-centred and internationally competitive educational environment. His experience in medicine, academia, and the supervision of residents’ and students’ research, as well as in healthcare strategic management, will contribute significantly to the continued development of RSU as a modern research university.