What does the Dean of Graduate Studies do?

I lead strategic planning, overseeing graduate research programmes and policies. This multifaceted role involves strategic direction, academic oversight, stakeholder engagement, and policy implementation to enhance the quality and relevance of graduate research at Masters and PhD level. I chair boards, shaping long-term strategies, and collaborate with stakeholders to align programmes with industry needs. Academic leadership involves ensuring high-quality graduate research and fostering student support services. I also represent the university externally, fostering partnerships and compliance with standards.

What are you most excited about in your role?

I am thrilled about the opportunity to enhance the graduate student experience within our college. What excites me most is forging new pathways and models that deepen our college's collaboration with industries – enabling ground-breaking research and amplifying our direct societal and industrial impact. I am passionate about extending our reach beyond academia, creating tangible change by fostering closer ties between our academic pursuits and the real-world challenges faced by industries and society at large.

What are the main challenges in your role?

In my role, one of the main challenges is finding the delicate balance between maintaining the highest standards of quality in research and ensuring that the study experience remains both enriching and enjoyable for our graduate students. It's crucial to foster an environment where academic rigour thrives while students feel engaged and fulfilled in their learning journey.

Another significant challenge is ensuring fairness among the diverse schools and centres within our college. Striving for equity across various academic units while honouring their unique strengths and perspectives requires careful navigation and inclusive decision-making processes.

Moreover, a critical challenge lies in promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. Recognising diversity as a given reality, we aim to actively include and celebrate it within our academic community. Creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered demands ongoing efforts to foster a culture of inclusivity, acknowledging that diversity enriches our educational landscape and drives innovation.

Despite the challenges, I am adeptly supported by the Graduate School professional services staff and their dedication and commitment to supporting research students undoubtedly makes the role easier.

What were you doing before this role/what other roles are you currently in?

My academic career has spanned over multiple institutions in the UK, including Imperial College London, University of Surrey and now University of Glasgow. I have served in several leadership roles in research as well as wider academic services.

In addition to my current role as Dean of Graduate Studies, I concurrently serve as the Dean for Transnational Engineering Education, overseeing our global partnerships. Leading the hub for communication sensing and imaging research, I also represent our university within Scotland's 5G Centre and its urban testbed.

Throughout my career, I have successfully supervised over 50 PhD students, contributing extensively to highly cited research publications. The accomplishments of my graduates, assuming key positions across the globe in academia and industry, stand as a testament to our collective efforts and remain a profound source of pride and strength for me.

First published: 1 January 2024

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