We are pleased to welcome and introduce Ken Skeldon to the University. Ken is joining Research & innovation Services and will be responsible for defining the scope and leading the implementation of the University’s research engagement activities to fulfil the ambitions of the Research Strategy for 2020-2025.

This is also a key appointment for the ARC – the Advanced Research Centre. In his capacity as Research Engagement Manager, Ken will lead the planning of the ARC as a venue to showcase research excellence in creative ways and to facilitate and support multiple types of engagement.

Ken obtained his BSc Hons in Physics and Mathematics, and PhD in Laser and Optoelectronics (Interferometry) from the University of Glasgow before undertaking postdoctoral research in the fields of gravitational wave astronomy, optical instrumentation and medical physics.

From 2008, Ken led the University of Aberdeen’s public engagement strategy as Head of Public Engagement, Festivals and Events. During this time his team coordinated a vibrant researcher-led annual programme and worked closely with the institution’s researcher development team to enrich engagement pathways for early career researchers.

Prior to joining the University of Glasgow as the Research Engagement Manager, Ken was the Head of Public Engagement at the Wellcome Genome Campus near Cambridge. There, he and his team managed the Campus’ researcher engagement, education and public programmes, aimed at connecting staff and students with a range of communities around genomics and bioinformatics.

Speaking about his appointment, Ken said: “I’m delighted to be joining the University in this exciting new role. There are so many benefits for research when collaboration with different communities and stakeholders is given the support and space to thrive. As well as enriching the research environment, this is increasingly recognised in the way research is funded and assessed. I’m particularly excited by the possibilities the ARC will bring for creative engagement, especially connecting PhD and early career staff across the whole University with different communities and partners to draw insights and foster new ideas. I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the institution to help drive forward the bold vision for research culture and the fundamental role engagement can play.”

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First published: 6 September 2021

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