Academic traditions

Doctoral degree conferment ceremony

The doctoral conferment ceremony is Lund University's most important academic event of the year. It has been held since the late 1600s and usually takes place in late May or early June. Traditionally, all nine faculties work together to organise the event. During the ceremony, the University awards its highest honour to those who have completed a doctoral degree and successfully defended their thesis.

The doctoral degree conferment ceremony

Practical information for ceremony participants

Inauguration of new professors

The inauguration of new professors is a public ceremony led by the vice-chancellor. At least one ceremony is held each semester, giving newly appointed professors the opportunity to be formally introduced to their roles.

The Swedish term for the event, 'installation', originates from a ritual where a newly appointed canon (cathedral clergyman) was led to his place in the choir ('stallum', in Latin). In a similar tradition, the vice-chancellor leads the new professors in a formal procession to the podium in the university auditorium.

As part of the ceremony, one of the new professors gives a short popular science lecture. The chair of Lund University Students’ Unions also delivers a speech, followed by a response from one of the newly inaugurated professors.

Inauguration of the vice-chancellor

The vice-chancellor is appointed by the Swedish Government for a term of up to six years, based on a recommendation from the University Board. Every six years, a new vice-chancellor is formally inaugurated on 28 January, St Charles’ Day.