Salford appoints new Dean for the School of Science, Engineering and Environment
The University of Salford has appointed Professor Joe Sweeney as the new Dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Environment (SEE). Joe joins the University of Salford from Lancaster University, where he led the Department of Chemistry. Joe will start his new role at Salford on Monday 12 July.
Joe joins the University of Salford at an exciting time, with completion dates fast approaching for three new buildings on campus for the School of Science, Engineering and Environment; a new home for the School in the heart of the Peel Park campus, and two leading innovation hubs, all of which form part of the Crescent Masterplan.
Joe will lead on the transformation of the School which has recently undergone a refreshed course portfolio and a re-energised focus on delivering impactful research. Robotics and smart living will be key priorities as the University continues its work alongside industry to deliver innovative solutions for everyday issues that we face in a post pandemic world and when tackling the climate crisis.
Prior to becoming the Dean of SEE, Professor Sweeney has held chairs at the University of Lancaster, Huddersfield and Reading. He has more than 30 years’ experience working in the sector, with a breadth of impressive accomplishments that include Founder and Chair of the Royal Society's Industry Fellows College. He has a strong global profile and has published over 100 scientific articles.
Throughout his career, Joe has gained extensive experience of working with UK and EU global tech companies, bringing industry and academia together on projects which have consistently delivered tangible impact. During his career he has been responsible for securing grants totalling over £9 million from charities, research councils and industry, both in the UK and internationally.
Professor Helen Marshall, Vice-Chancellor of The University of Salford said: “We are delighted to welcome Professor Joe Sweeney to the Salford team. The SEE School covers a wide range of subjects and is an area where we are seeing fast growth in student numbers. It is also home to many of our high-profile research facilities, and the exciting work being undertaken in those spaces around robotics, digital and smart living. Joe will play an integral role in developing and showcasing the expertise of the School and we look forward to welcoming him into our University community.”
Commenting on his appointment, Professor Joe Sweeney said: “As a first-in-family to university, education immeasurably transformed my life for the better, and I am passionate about delivering the same life-changing experience for Salford students. I am really excited to join this vibrant young School, and I am looking forward to working with all of our students, and the committed and talented group of academic and professional services colleagues working in the School; I’m proud and honoured to have been chosen for this key leadership role, and I want to assure all of our students and staff that I will expend every effort to ensure the School delivers world-class societally–impactful research, effective external engagement, and the best possible experience for students.
"Above all, I will strive to ensure everyone in the School is empowered in their personal journeys, whatever their motivations, background, or beliefs. As far as I am concerned, we are all in this together, and my door will always be open. I can’t wait to meet you all.”
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