The Walker Institute seeks new Director
Monday, 27 April 2015
The Walker Institute is the University of Reading's flagship inter-disciplinary research centre for research on the nature and impact of climate change. It draws together the unique breadth and depth of expertise that exists at Reading, coming from both the environmental and social sciences, to understand the risks and opportunities from climate change, building research excellence and contributing to policy.
On 1 August 2015 Professor Nigel Arnell, the current Director of the Walker Institute, will stand down to pursue his research in climate risk assessment within the School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences.
Under Professor Arnell's leadership, the Institute has enjoyed considerable success, providing advice on climate change to the UK government, developing links with businesses, developing a programme of research on climate impacts in Africa, and helping to raise the University's external profile. The new Director will build on Professor Arnell's achievements to extend the national and international reputation of the Walker Institute as a key part of the University's 2020 Research Plan.
The new appointment will be on secondment from an existing position within the University for a period of five years, with the possibility of renewal. The role description and how to apply are on the University jobs board. Interested members of academic staff are invited to submit applications by 22 May.
Professor Arnell said: "I am incredibly proud of what has been achieved since I took over as Director of the Walker Institute in 2007, and am now looking forward to focusing on and extending my own research.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank the superb Walker Institute team of Maria Noguer, Kathy Maskell, Sandrine Perou and Felipa House, who have contributed hugely to the Institute's successes so far."
Professor Steve Mithen, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation, said: "I would like to thank Professor Arnell for his commitment and contribution to the Walker Institute. Under his leadership, the Institute has helped to move the University's climate research into the kind of cross-disciplinary areas where the most exciting innovations are often made.
"As we look ahead to 2020, the Walker Institute will play a key role in the University's research environment. I look forward to seeing the Institute building on its strong foundations to make a significant and world leading contribution to the global challenges arising from climate change.
"This is an exciting time for the Walker Institute and I strongly encourage all interested internal candidates to apply for this high-profile leadership role."