Head of School appointments
Wednesday, 13 January 2016
The University has appointed Dr John Gibbs as the new Head of School of Arts & Communication Design, and appointed Professor Laurie Butler as the Head of School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences for a second term.
Both the appointments are for a period of six years.
Dr Gibbs will start his term on 1 January 2017, while Professor Butler will start his term on 1 August 2016.
Dr John Gibbs currently heads the Department of Film, Theatre & Television, having worked at the University since 2006. His research interests are in Film Aesthetics, particularly with extending the subjects and methods of style-based criticism. He has chaired the University’s Arts Committee since 2007.
He said of his appointment, “I’m very pleased to be taking up this new role. The School of Arts and Communication Design is world-class and the next few years present a number of exciting opportunities to further our excellence in teaching and research, including the move of the Departments of Art and Typography & Graphic Communication to the landmark refurbished URS Building."
Professor Laurie Butler currently heads the School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences and his second term came following consultation with school colleagues.
He said it has been a privilege to lead the School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences over the last four years. “I am extremely fortunate to be able to work with such talented staff and students, and am very much looking forward to the challenges and exciting opportunities ahead as the school approaches its 100th year”.
Robert Van de Noort, the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Academic Planning and Resource, said he was pleased with the appointments. “Professor Laurie Butler and Dr John Gibbs are strong leaders and have ambitious plans for their respective School”.
The position of the Head of School of Humanities is being advertised externally. The deadline for applications is Sunday 7 February, with the interviews scheduled for early March.