Professor Julie Barnett, currently Associate Dean (Research) for the Faculty of HSS, has been appointed as Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) and will start the new role on 1 April 2022.
Professor Barnett joined the University in 2013 as Professor of Health Psychology after roles at Brunel University and the University of Surrey. She was Director of Studies for Health Psychology before Deputy Head of Department, when she led the successful Department of Psychology application for a Bronze Athena Swan Award. In 2019 she was appointed as Associate Dean (Research) for the Faculty and worked with Professor Davide Mattia in the Interim Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) role prior to the arrival of Professor Sarah Hainsworth.
In her new role, Julie will be working with Professor Hainsworth to ensure that the actions in the University strategy on research are fully realised. She will have particular responsibility for embedding principles of good research culture and enabling the growth of new and existing research governance activities.
Professor Barnett said: “I’m very happy to have the opportunity to work with Sarah in this new role. It is fantastic to be working with colleagues across the University to give particular attention to enhancing our research culture. We’ll be taking a fresh look at the governance and ethical systems that ensure colleagues are supported and equipped to be confident in their ability to deliver the highest standards of academic rigour.”
Professor Sarah Hainsworth, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research), added: “I am delighted that Julie is joining the team and look forward to working with her to develop these essential areas of our research activities.”
Professor Ian White, Vice-Chancellor and President, said: “I am very pleased that Julie will be taking up the important new role of Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) from April.
“This senior role will support the range of initiatives needed to achieve our research ambitions as outlined in our University strategy, and Julie brings a wealth of experience to the team. My warmest congratulations on her appointment.”
As a social scientist Julie is committed to interdisciplinary working and is currently part of projects funded by H2020, British Academy, BBSRC, the Welsh Government and Wessex Water working with colleagues in Departments of Chemistry, Mathematics, Health, Management as well as Psychology. Julie has also been active in the development of the Healthy Later Living Network.