Rodrigo Serna-Guerrero appointed Dean of the Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering
Professor Rodrigo Serna-Guerrero has been appointed Dean of the Aalto University School of Chemical Engineering. Serna-Guerrero is currently Head of Department of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering, and his main research field is mineral processing and recycling. Serna-Guerrero received his PhD in chemical engineering from the University of Ottawa in 2010 and has served at Aalto University in several research and department leadership positions since 2015. He was appointed tenured Associate Professor in 2023.
'I am pleased to confirm this appointment of Professor Rodrigo Serna-Guerrero by the Aalto University Foundation Board. Rodrigo is a valued member of our community and with his international career and background offers invaluable insights to enrich our thinking and collaboration. In his research area, he has in made exemplary contributions in various externally funded research projects related to circular economy. I am very happy that he has accepted the position of dean," says Provost Kristiina Mäkelä.
The dean is responsible for directing the school’s activities and taking part in the long-term development of Aalto University as a member of President’s Management Team. The dean is also responsible for the overall development and international competitiveness of the school, for allocating its resources and for recruiting faculty. The dean reports to the provost.
Rodrigo Serna-Guerrero will start in his position on 1 December 2026. The dean's term of office is five years. Kristiina Kruus will continue to serve as the Dean of the School of Chemical Engineering until 30 November 2026, when her second term ends. During Kristiina’s term the school has developed significantly both in research and education, and the work will continue.
More information:
Provost Kristiina Mäkelä, Aalto University
Read more news
Aalto Distinguished Professor Jukka Pekola’s message: Basic research is at the heart of progress
Department of Applied Physics Professor Jukka Pekola was appointed Aalto Distinguished Professor on September 1, 2026.
Aalto community members awarded for outstanding work
Projects and actions awarded bring Aaltonians together and embody the Aalto spirit – congratulations to all!
Associate Professor Andrea Sand appointed new head of applied physics department
Sand, a nuclear physics expert, is supported by new vice heads for research and education. All started their work on September 1, 2026.