Professor George Attard has been appointed as the new Pro Vice-Chancellor (Interdisciplinary Research) for a three-year term, with effect from November 2018.
In his new post, George will be working with Professor Mark Spearing (Vice-President Research & Enterprise) on developing the University’s interdisciplinary research and enterprise strategy.
In this role he will also be responsible for supporting University’s engagement with the Global Challenges agenda and with the UN’s Sustainability Goals.
Professor Attard has worked at the University since 1992, conducting research and teaching within the School of Chemistry, and as director of the Natural Sciences degree programme, within the Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences.
Commenting on the appointment, Professor Mark Spearing said:
“Interdisciplinary research is a major strength of the University of Southampton. Many of the greatest research opportunities and most critical societal challenges require interdisciplinary approaches. I am delighted that Professor George Attard will be providing leadership in this important area for us as our new Pro Vice-Chancellor (Interdisciplinary Research). George has a very strong personal track record in interdisciplinary research and has led a number of major pan-University initiatives.”
Professor Attard said he felt privileged to take on the role:
“The University has nurtured interdisciplinary research and education for over a decade, so I very much look forward to building on these foundations and to work with colleagues to establish new areas of distinction and distinctiveness for the University.
I am particularly looking forward to helping nurture and develop interdisciplinary research programmes that address the UN’s sustainability goals. I am convinced that as an academic community we have both the determination and the capacity to make lasting and positive contributions to tackling existing and emerging societal challenges.”
