Professor Michael Arthur was appointed as Vice-Chancellor of the University of Leeds. As a former student of Burnt Mill Comprehensive in Harlow, he is the first Vice-Chancellor of a Russell Group university to be state-educated. Prior to joining Leeds, Professor Arthur was Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life Sciences at the University of Southampton.

Leading one of the UK's largest research intensive universities is the ultimate challenge for any academic. When I first looked at the University of Leeds, I saw the opportunity to make a real difference. I wasn't wrong. Through a combination of our strategy, clearly stated values, great teamwork and a focus on academic excellence of international quality, we are having an impact that is truly global in scale. I feel so privileged to have been given this opportunity.

The University of Leeds is one of the 20 research intensive universities which make up the Russell Group. With over 33,000 students and 8,000 staff it is one of the largest UK higher education institutions. Leeds is already one of the top ten universities for research in the UK and as evidenced by the Shanghai Jiao Tong index, one of the foremost universities in the world.