On 18 May, I will have the pleasure of chairing the latest in the Hutton Series of debates as we seek to identify the top ten key priorities, innovations and actions for society that will be most effective and inclusive, ethical and global approach to the address the climate change challenges. The outcome will be captured in a report at COP-26. In parallel with this the Heriot-Watt University community […] Read More
I am hoping you have, by now, all read my message announcing our new Chancellor. This is a very exciting appointment and one I am personally very proud to announce, making it a milestone in our bicentenary year. I have known Sir Geoff throughout my time as Principal and Vice Chancellor of the University and have found his intelligence, compassion and wit both entertaining and insightful. His knowledge […] Read More
Today, Thursday 22 April, is World Earth Day. And this year it has developed into a three-day event, which started with the Youth Climate Summit on Tuesday, Education International yesterday and then World Earth Day itself today. The theme this year is ‘Restore our Earth’, which focuses on natural processes, emerging green technologies, and innovative thinking that can restore the world’s ecosystems. This means not just relying on […] Read More
During the Easter break, I took the opportunity to read Sir Bob Reid’s biography, titled as above. Sir Bob was chair of the Edinburgh Business School for fourteen years and, as some will know, a legend in his leadership of companies such as Shell, British Rail, ICE Futures Europe and as a Deputy Governor of the Bank of England. The book is written in a very creative, precise […] Read More
One of the key purposes of a University is to share the research it engages in, and to ensure the purpose of that research is socially and economically beneficial. My conversation with Prof Garry Pender a few weeks ago discussed our substantial REF submission, the content of which lays out the impacts of our research, and why it is so important to us as an institution. This week, […] Read More