Graduated from the University of Iceland’s Faculty of Medicine in 1982. Specialist training in anaesthesiology and intensive care medicine at the Sahlgrenska Hospital in Gothenburg beginning in 1986. Completed his PhD from the University of Gothenburg in 1996. Began working at Landspitali University Hospital in 1997. Was a member of the helicopter emergency medical service from 1986 and again following his specialist training. Was also director of medical flights (fixed-wing aircraft) in Akureyri for one year.