The European Academy of Occupational Health Psychology (EAOHP), in collaboration with European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA), are pleased to announce that Professor Ari Väänänen, from the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, and Dr Magdalena Warszewska-Makuch, from the Central Institute for Labour Protection National Research Institute, Poland, have jointly been awarded the Eusebio Rial-González Innovation & Practice Award.
This biennial award in honour of the contribution to occupational health psychology of Eusebio (Seb) Rial González. Seb was a founding member of the EAOHP and head of EU-OSHA’s Prevention and Research Unit until his death in December 2014. The Award is open to any OHP researcher or practitioner who has produced an innovative body of work that has made a considerable contribution to the field of occupational health psychology
Professor Ari Väänänen’s work has made a profound and influential contribution to occupational health psychology by advancing a broader understanding of mental health in working life. His research has played a key role in shifting the field beyond narrow individual-focused perspectives towards a more comprehensive approach that recognises the importance of organisational, societal, and cultural factors in shaping mental well-being. This contribution has had a significant impact not only within academia, but also in public policy and wider societal discourse. Professor Väänänen has actively engaged with policymakers, labour market actors, and the public, and his research has informed national discussions and policy development in Finland. In addition, his work bridging academia and practice, including collaboration with occupational health services, demonstrates a strong commitment to translating research into real-world impact and promoting sustainable, systemic approaches to mental health at work.
Dr Magdalena Warszewska-Makuch’s research and practice have made a substantial contribution to the prevention and management of psychosocial risks in the workplace, particularly at the national level in Poland. Her work is characterised by the development of a wide range of practical tools, guidelines, and diagnostic instruments addressing workplace bullying, cyberbullying, and work-related stress. These resources have been widely adopted by organisations and practitioners, supporting effective risk assessment and intervention. A key strength of her work lies in its strong emphasis on dissemination and stakeholder engagement, including extensive training, collaboration with labour inspectors and professionals, and the production of accessible materials for diverse audiences. Underpinned by a robust research foundation, her contributions demonstrate a clear and sustained commitment to translating scientific knowledge into practical solutions that improve workplace health and safety.
The Eusebio Rial-González Innovation & Practice Award will formally be presented at the 17th European Academy of Occupational Health Psychology Conference that will take place from 15-17 June 2026 in Helsinki, Finland.
