New deputy vice-chancellor to lead research at Coventry University

Coventry University has appointed a new deputy vice-chancellor to lead and develop its wide-ranging research portfolio.

Professor Richard Dashwood is set to join the institution from Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) at the University of Warwick, where he is currently academic director, head of engineering materials and manufacturing, and chief technical officer of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult.

Bringing with him a wealth of experience spearheading high-profile research programmes, Professor Dashwood – who will start his role as deputy vice-chancellor for research in May – will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of Coventry University's ambitious research strategy.

He will replace Professor Kevin Warwick, who is retiring at the end of March and who has played an instrumental role both in growing Coventry's research capability and managing its successful performance in the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF) – the government initiative for assessing the quality of research across universities.

Professor Dashwood will take up the reins for the next phase of the University's research activity as the institution's sights shift to the next REF which is anticipated to take place in 2021.

Professor Dashwood said:

I am very excited to join Coventry University and am looking forward to working with the leadership team to continue growing Coventry's reputation as an institution that carries out impactful research which has influence across the globe.

Vice-chancellor Professor John Latham said:

I'd like to congratulate Richard on his appointment, and look forward to welcoming him into the role of deputy vice-chancellor for research. Richard has considerable experience heading up research programmes and a wide range of high-profile projects funded both from Europe and through UK government and industry, so we anticipate that Coventry's research capability, influence and impact will continue to strengthen and excel under his leadership.