Vice-Chancellor thanks Professor Kevin Warwick for his service to the University

Friday, 20 December 2013

Professor Kevin Warwick is to leave the University of Reading's School of Systems Engineering after 25 years of ground-breaking research and high-quality teaching.

During his time at Reading, Professor Warwick's research has included using intelligent computer methods to predict the onset of Parkinsonian tremors. He also invented a robot controlled by neural tissue which is providing crucial insights into diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Professor Warwick is known for his pioneering experiments involving a neuro-surgical implantation into the median nerves of his own left arm. This links his nervous system directly to a computer and has helped assess the latest technology for use by the disabled. Professor Warwick was also successful with the first extra-sensory (ultrasonic) input for a human and with the first purely electronic telegraphic communication experiment between the nervous systems of two humans.

Vice-Chancellor Sir David Bell said: "Kevin Warwick has spent his career turning science fiction into reality. His work has changed our understanding of being human and shown the limitless possibilities of robotics in the 21st century.

"He is a master at combining ground-breaking research with the popular touch - able to communicate the most complex science simply and directly to the public. From becoming the first human ‘cyborg' to creating robot rats, his work on artificial intelligence, biomedical engineering, bioethics, deep brain stimulation and neurodynamics has taken him to the frontiers of human knowledge and understanding.

"I am delighted that Kevin has agreed to become a Visiting Professor at Reading and that our academics will continue to collaborate with him on many new and exciting projects."

Dr Ben Cosh, Head of the School of Systems Engineering, said: "The service Kevin has given to the School over many years has been of huge value. In leadership generally, in the development and conduct of outstanding research, in teaching and in public engagement and outreach. The weight of his ideas and influence will be felt in the corridors of this School and in the work it produces for many years yet I'm sure. His presence, though, will be missed greatly."

Professor Warwick said: "It has been wonderful to see the changes for the better that have occurred at the University of Reading. During my time here I have been privileged to be party to world-leading research and a series of pioneering scientific experiments. I will be very sad to move on.

"However the opportunity to fulfil the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Coventry is an extremely exciting one as they go through a transition in their research output. I am delighted to say however that I will be able to retain my links through accepting a Visiting Professorship at Reading."