Priit Reiska was elected as the new rector of Tallinn University by the university's electoral council on Wednesday, succeeding the current rector Tõnu Viik whose term ends on May 15. The election featured three candidates: Katrin Niglas, Priit Reiska, and Indrek Ibrus, with Ibrus failing to advance past the preliminary round.

Reiska currently serves as the director of the Institute of Natural and Health Sciences at Tallinn University and is recognized for his contribution to science education, particularly through making natural sciences clearer and more effective for students. He holds a degree in physics from Tallinn Pedagogical University and earned a doctorate in physics didactics from the University of Kiel in 1999.

His research focuses on improving the learning of natural sciences through practical experiments, computer simulations, and digital tools. He has developed and employed concept mapping techniques to assess students' knowledge and understanding and has published over 40 research articles. Reiska's past experience as a researcher at the University of Kiel, as well as his continuous work in education, positions him well for this significant role at Tallinn University.