Bifröst University appoints Erin Sawyer as professor of practice

Bifröst University has appointed Dr Erin Sawyer, a lawyer and specialist in foreign affairs, security and international relations, as a professor of practice in its School of Social Sciences, mbl.is reported.

Sawyer recently served as acting US ambassador at the US Embassy in Reykjavík, where she led relations between the two countries on defence, energy and economic matters. She worked to strengthen Iceland-US cooperation on energy and climate issues and expand trade ties.

She previously served as chief foreign affairs adviser to the commander of US Air Forces in Europe and Africa. In that role, she advised on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the strategic implications of Finland and Sweden joining NATO. She also led US State Department programmes focused on strengthening the rule of law and reforming justice systems in more than 30 countries.

Bifröst University Rector Ólína Kjerúlf Þorvarðardóttir said Sawyer’s experience would strengthen the university’s teaching and research in international relations, politics and security, and help deepen its links with international academic and professional communities.