Installation Ceremony/ Inauguration of new Professors
Karolinska Institutet organizes an installation ceremony each autumn, during which KI’s newly appointed professors are formally installed and presented, and academic prizes and medals are awarded. The ceremony takes place in Aula Medica and is followed by a reception.
The Installation Ceremony is an academic ceremony that aims to both welcome the new professors into the university’s academic community and to highlight their field of research to colleagues and the public. By tradition, an installation ceremony also includes some form of teaching, which is why an inaugural lecture is given by one of the new professors.
The installation of professors has its roots dating back to the Middle Ages. The word installation comes from the ecclesiastical term ‘stallum,’ which was the seat in the choir that a member of the cathedral chapter received upon taking office.
Installation Ceremony October 8, 2026
Ceremony in Aula Medica, KI campus Solna, from 5:00 pm to approx 7:00 pm.
During the ceremony, in accordance with academic tradition, new professors who have taken up permanent appointments at Karolinska Institutet during the previous academic year are formally installed. Adjunct professors and visiting professors appointed during the same period are presented and welcomed on stage. A number of prizes and KI’s silver medals are also awarded during the ceremony.
A reception will follow the ceremony.
The event is only for invited guests, but anyone may follow the live broadcast of the ceremony. Learn more about newly hired professors and their research.
Invitation
In August, an invitation is sent by email to all professors holding permanent positions, adjunct professors, and visiting professors who take up their appointment no later than July 1. The invitation contains all information about preparations for the ceremony, as well as instructions on how to register you and your guests.
Guests
Each Professor may invite up to 4 guests.
Dress code for new professors
KI’s professorial gown, together with the doctoral hat - the symbol of academic freedom - is worn throughout the ceremony. The gown and hat are provided on loan by KI. Fitting takes place shortly before the ceremony in Aula Medica.
Dress code for guests
Dark suit.
Rehearsal
A mandatory rehearsal takes place in Aula Medica on the day of the Installation ceremony.
Entrance tickets
Entrance tickets for you and your guests will be sent by email approximately one week prior to the event.
Invitation
An invitation is sent out by email in August. Registration is done through a link in the invitation.
Guests
Each prize recipient can invite up to 4 guests.
Dress code for you and your guests
Dark suit
Entrance tickets
Entrance tickets for you and your guests will be sent by email approximately one week prior to the event.
Invitation
An invitation is sent out by email in August. Registration is done through a link in the invitation.
Dress code
Dark suit
Entrance tickets
Entrance tickets will be sent by email approximately one week prior to the event.