Minister for Universities and Science, David Willetts today announced the appointment of Professor Philip Nelson as Chief Executive and Deputy Chair of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) – the UK’s main agency for funding research in engineering and the physical sciences.
David Willetts said: “I am delighted that Professor Nelson is joining EPSRC as the new chief executive. His impressive track record in academia combined with his industrial background will serve him well in leading EPSRC with its vital role of supporting world-class science and engineering.”
Professor Nelson said: “I feel greatly honoured to have been chosen for such an important national role. I am looking forward to working with colleagues across the research disciplines to ensure the continued health of the UK’s world-class science base upon which so much of our future prosperity depends.”
EPSRC Chair, Dr Paul Golby said: “I look forward to working closely with Phil Nelson to meet the challenges which lie ahead for Engineering and the Physical Sciences. He brings a wealth of experience to the role, both academic leadership and organisational management”
The appointment is for four years. Professor Nelson will take up his post on 1 April 2014 as the permanent successor to Professor Dave Delpy.
A Southampton graduate, Professor Nelson is an accomplished and active researcher in the field of Acoustics. He served as the University’s Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise from 2005-2013, as Director of Southampton’s Institute of Sound and Vibration Research (ISVR) from 2001-2005, and as the founder Director of the Rolls-Royce University Technology Centre in Gas Turbine Noise from 1999-2001.