By Rikke Bajlum Nielsen, AAU Communication and Public Affairs
Photo: Majken Davids

A Proud Tradition Continues – Teacher of the Year at AAU Engineering

At Aalborg University, it has become a cherished tradition to celebrate the teachers who make an extraordinary difference for students — both academically and personally. Each year, students nominate a teacher who has managed to inspire, engage, and elevate the teaching experience to a level that goes far beyond the curriculum.

This year, it is Professor Erik Lund who, with great enthusiasm and unanimous support, has been nominated for the Teacher of the Year award at Engineering 2025.

Words of Praise from the Students

It was a touching moment when Erik Lund was surprised with the Teacher of the Year award at Engineering 2025. It happened on an ordinary Tuesday, in a lecture hall full of students, where Erik — as usual — was in the middle of teaching.

Out of the blue, colleagues, university leadership, and students appeared to celebrate him with a diploma, flowers, and confetti. Prior to the award ceremony, students had voted among the many skilled teachers at the faculty, and the final choice fell on Erik.

The award is accompanied by a written nomination prepared by the students, which reads in part:

"It is with great pleasure that we nominate Professor Erik Lund for the Teacher of the Year award at the faculty in 2025. Erik’s teaching has had a profound impact on our studies and academic development. He combines outstanding subject knowledge with a remarkable ability to communicate, inspire, and support his students. His influence extends beyond the Department of Materials and Production, benefiting students from both the Department of Energy and the Department of the Built Environment through his teaching and supervision.

His teaching is never limited to theory. Erik integrates practical examples and assignments that demonstrate the real-world relevance of complex engineering concepts. This approach inspires students to engage with the subject with curiosity and motivation — often beyond what is required by the curriculum."

His Door Is Always Open

Students emphasize Erik’s openness to feedback as a defining quality of his teaching. They describe how he actively listens and adapts his teaching in dialogue with them — something they see as a sign of both humility and a genuine commitment to continuous improvement. They also highlight his willingness to share ideas and methods with colleagues, helping to raise the overall quality of teaching across the faculty.

"As a supervisor and mentor, Erik consistently exceeds expectations. He follows up on discussions, provides thorough and constructive feedback, and ensures that students feel supported throughout all phases of their work. His commitment does not end when the lecture does — he stays until help is no longer needed and always makes time for questions, idea exchange, and guidance. Students know that his door is always open, and that he genuinely cares about their success — both academically and personally."

A True Role Model

Finally the students  describe Erik as a true role model who combines professionalism and fairness with genuine care. They highlight how he balances high academic standards with empathy, inspiring them not just as learners, but as future engineers.

The many kind words came as a surprise to Erik Lund: “Thank you so much for the kind nomination. It really makes you blush reading it.” After a short speech by the Vice Dean of Education at Engineering, Olav Geil, and a well-deserved round of applause, Erik was able to continue his lecture.

With this award, Erik Lund is now also in the running for the title of AAU Teacher of the Year.