The University has appointed internationally renowned cell biologist Professor Keith Jones as its next Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research and Enterprise). Professor Jones will join the University on 1 October. He is currently Executive Dean of the Faculty of Sciences at the University of Adelaide in Australia.
Professor Jones is known for his research into the biological mechanisms of egg development and changes due to ageing – a leading cause of infertility.
Professor Adam Tickell, Vice-Chancellor at the University of Sussex, said: "Keith Jones is a research heavyweight with extensive leadership experience at universities and research institutes in the UK and Australia. "This is an excellent appointment for Sussex at this crucial moment in our history, as we evolve in the coming months and years. I'm sure all colleagues will join me in welcoming Keith to the University in the autumn."
Before joining Adelaide in 2018, Professor Jones spent five years as Head of Biological Sciences at the University of Southampton. Between 2008 and 2012 he was Head of Research at the School of Biomedical Sciences & Pharmacy at the University of Newcastle, Australia. After gaining his PhD from the University of Liverpool, he spent his early career at St George's Hospital Medical School, University College London and the University of Newcastle (UK).
Professor Jones said: "I have watched the University of Sussex from afar as it has steadily built its global research reputation. Some of the research being carried out here is genuinely world leading and Sussex is also at the forefront of many emerging fields. I'm excited to have the opportunity to lead the University's research and enterprise activities as we implement our ambitious Research with Impact strategy over the next few years. I can't wait to get started."
The PVC (Research and Enterprise) role at Sussex has been vacant since Professor Michael Davies stood down in September 2018. Professor Stephen Shute has had executive oversight of the University's research portfolio in the interim.