Principal is new Convenor of Universities Scotland
Queen ’ s Anniversary Prize
Principal is new Convenor of Universities Scotland
professor Andrea Nolan became Convener of Universities Scotland in August . Elected to the post by her peer group of Principals , Professor Nolan is the first woman to hold the position at Universities Scotland .
Universities Scotland represents all 19 of Scotland ’ s higher education institutions and works closely with the Scottish Parliament , Scottish Government and Scottish Funding Council on almost every aspect of higher education activity in Scotland . The organisation also works with Universities UK on matters that directly affect Scottish universities .
Professor Nolan is already an active member of Universities Scotland , having served as
Convener of the Research and Knowledge Exchange Committee . She takes on the role at a very challenging and highly fluid time for higher education with the Brexit vote to leave the EU adding to other policy and funding challenges in Scotland and the UK .
Professor Nolan said : “ I am excited to take on the Convenership at a time of many opportunities and challenges for higher education . I feel privileged to play a part in what is a truly internationally leading sector , one in which Scotland can take great pride .
“ Building on our platform of excellence in teaching , research and knowledge exchange , I will work with my colleagues in partnership with our many stakeholders to increase accessibility to higher education . We will focus on underrepresented students and communities ; support businesses , public and third sectors to innovate and internationalise through our research and graduates ; and seek to ensure long-term sustainable and competitive funding of higher education here in Scotland to enable delivery of our ambition , and maintenance of our worldstanding in higher education .
“ Higher education will also need a clear voice in Brexit negotiations over the coming years , so that Scotland continues to have access to talent and ideas that we value so highly from across Europe and beyond .”
Queen ’ s Anniversary Prize
The University was delighted to receive the Queen ’ s Anniversary Prize in 2015 for its internationally acclaimed work in timber engineering , sustainable construction and wood science . The award highlights the global impact of the University ’ s research into construction innovations and reducing the carbon footprint , and its influence on industry and the environment .
This is the second time the University has received Royal recognition for the impact of its research conducted by the Institute for Sustainable Construction . The University was awarded the Queen ’ s Anniversary Prize in 2009 for its work towards improving sound insulation between attached dwellings .
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