The Health Sciences Institute of the University of Akureyri (HHA) serves as a joint platform for employees of SAk and the University of Akureyri (HA) to strengthen research in health sciences. The role of HHA includes enhancing SAk as a research and teaching hospital, promoting increased research collaboration, facilitating cooperation in information services, library resources, computing, and data services, as well as organizing joint symposiums.

The staff members appointed to positions at HHA for a three-year term are:

• Dr. Alexander Kristinn Smárason

  , Obstetrician and Gynecologist, Professor

• Dr. Björn Gunnarsson

  , Anesthesiologist, Associate Professor

• Dr. Laufey Hrólfsdóttir

  , Director of the Department of Education and Science, Lecturer

• Dr. Ragnheiður Harpa Arnardóttir

  , Physiotherapist, Associate Professor

"Collaboration Between SAk and HA is Essential"

Ragnheiður Halldórsdóttir, Chief Medical Officer at SAk, emphasizes the significance of HHA:
"As highlighted in the national health policy for 2030, scientific research plays a crucial role in the development of healthcare services. Research strengthens our role in educating students in health sciences, enhances our human resources, and creates an attractive working environment. HHA is a key platform for SAk and HA, as high-quality healthcare services are built on research and development, along with the ability to apply knowledge effectively."