Plymouth University appoints new Dean for Science and Environment

A professor with more than 30 years’ experience in academia, industrial research, and industrial practice has been appointed as the new Dean of the Faculty of Science and Environment at Plymouth University.

Kevin Jones, Professor of Computing Science, will join the University in July to head up one of its largest faculties, home to the School of Computing and Mathematics; the School of Marine Science and Engineering; the School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences; and the School of Biological Sciences.

Professor Jones joins Plymouth from City University London, where he is Head of Computer Science and Deputy Dean of the School of Informatics. His research interests include computer science, in particular cyber security, and electronic engineering.

Professor Jones said: "I'm very excited about joining Plymouth University as the Dean of Science and the Environment. Plymouth is clearly a "rising star" in the UK university firmament, with a clear vision of what it can be, at both the local and global levels, and the capability to achieve its vision.

“I'm impressed with the work that is already being done within the Schools and look forward to building on our strengths and helping the Faculty play its role as a cornerstone in the University's ambitious plan for 2020 and beyond."

Professor Jones started his academic career as a Research Associate and Technical Coordinator at the University of Manchester, then moved to a California Research Lab with Digital Equipment Corporation, before joining the US technology licensing company Rambus.

In 2010 he joined City University London as a Professor in their Centre for Software Reliability and was asked to head up the department in 2012.

Professor Wendy Purcell, Vice-Chancellor, said: “We are delighted to appoint Kevin, who brings with him a wealth of experience from both the private sector and higher education. He joins a faculty that has a world-renowned teaching and research pedigree and we hope under his strategic leadership that it will flourish further.”