Dr Rachel Arnold, currently Academic Director (Doctoral) and a Reader in the Department for Health, has been appointed as Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) and will start the new role on 1 September 2025.
Dr Arnold joined the University in 2012 as a Lecturer in the Department for Health, after completing her PhD at Loughborough University.
Over the past three years, Dr Arnold has led on various projects in the doctoral space, together with colleagues across the University, including Bath’s inaugural Doctoral Strategic Implementation Plan, an end-to-end review of doctoral milestones, streamlining doctoral regulations and governance, and launching numerous research culture initiatives to support both doctoral supervisors and students within the University community. She was also recently appointed as a trustee of the UK Council for Graduate Education (UKCGE).
Dr Rachel Arnold, said:
I am really looking forward to working with Sarah and individuals across the University as we implement actions from the research strategy. Building on the strong foundations that Julie Barnett and colleagues have established over the past few years, there will be particular emphasis on how we can further enhance research impact, support the continued growth of our research culture, and ensure colleagues are well-supported to uphold the highest standards of academic rigour and integrity.
Professor Sarah Hainsworth, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), added:
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Professor Julie Barnett for her outstanding contributions during her time as Associate PVC (Research). Julie has been instrumental in advancing our research culture agenda and strengthening our commitment to research ethics at the University of Bath. Her leadership has left a lasting impact, and we are grateful for her dedication and vision. I am also delighted to welcome Dr Rachel Arnold as our new Associate PVC (Research). Rachel has already demonstrated exceptional leadership and insight in her role as Academic Director (Doctoral), and I have no doubt she will be a fantastic addition to our team. I look forward to working with her as we continue to support and grow our research community.
Rachel currently co-leads the StART research group at Bath, which explores stress, anxiety, resilience and thriving in sport and other high pressured domains, such as healthcare, the military, business, and the emergency services. She is currently part of projects funded by the NIHR, Innovate UK, and NPCC/UKRI.
Please join us in congratulating Dr Rachel Arnold on this appointment.