Bournemouth University chief leaving to take up new post (From Bournemouth Echo)

Bournemouth University chief leaving to take up new post

8:00am Friday 12th March 2010 in

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Bournemouth University vice-chancellor Professor Paul Curran has accepted a new post in London.

Professor Curran will take up his new position of vice-chancellor at City University in August.

After joining Bournemouth University in 2005, the professor – a leading researcher in satellite remote sensing – led a successful programme of change.

In 2008 Bournemouth was ranked fourth most improved University in the UK-wide Research Assessment Exercise (RAE), and it has been named as the top new university in The Guardian University Guide for the past two years.

Professor Curran, who was deputy vice-chancellor at Southampton University before making the move along the south coast, said: “It is a great honour and privilege to be vice-chancellor of Bournemouth University.

“Together, the staff, students and our many supporters have transformed BU and the university will gain in strength, stature and popularity in the years to come. Much of what I set out to do in 2005 will soon be completed.

“Earlier this week, therefore, I accepted City University London’s offer to join them as their next vice-chancellor.

Paying tribute to professor Curran, Bournemouth University board chairman Alan Frost said: “During his tenure as vice-chancellor at Bournemouth, Paul has brought about dramatic change and success.

“His leadership has been pivotal in raising the profile of the university nationally and internationally, as well as here in Dorset.

“Paul will be leaving us at the end of BU’s best ever year – we are the fastest rising university in The Times Good University Guide, were finalists in The Times Higher Education ‘University of the Year’ award and the satisfaction of our students has never been higher.

“We will miss Paul, but wish him every success at City University London.”

Professor Curran concluded: “I will be leaving Bournemouth University with some sadness but in the knowledge that it is well-placed for the next stage of its development.”