University appoints new Professors to support key sectors

The University of the Highlands and Islands is developing its curriculum and research specialisms with the appointment of four new Professors.

Keith Smyth, an expert in online learning and technology in education, has been appointed as Professor of Pedagogy. The university’s new Professor of Digital Health will be Maged Kamel Boulos and the Engineering Professor will be Andrew Rae.

Recognising energy as another key area, the university has appointed Ben Wilson as Professor of Energy. Professor Wilson joins the university’s research team from the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS) UHI where he works as a principal investigator in mammalogy and marine renewables.

An expert in coastal ecology with an interest in the impact of renewable devices on marine flora and fauna, he is well placed to develop the university’s portfolio of energy research and to help ensure energy development and environmental sustainability go hand in hand. Professor Wilson will continue to work from SAMS UHI in Dunstaffnage, Argyll, and will also have a base at Inverness College UHI.

Principal and Vice Chancellor Professor Clive Mulholland welcomed the new appointments, saying:

“We are excited to be appointing such high-calibre Professors who are recognised for their academic expertise and industry experience across their sectors.

“Our university is a dynamic and growing partnership of 13 institutions spread around the Highlands and Islands. We are investing in and growing our curriculum and research in all areas which relate to the current and emerging needs of, and opportunities for, the region and our communities. 

“In some of these areas we are building on what we’ve already achieved by appointing senior academics who can work with staff across the region to add even greater momentum to the university’s growth. These new leadership posts will greatly benefit our future work.”

Pictured is (l) Professor Ben Wilson (r) Principal and Vice Chancellor Clive Mulholland