The Russell Group appoints Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell as its next Chair

Professor Rothwell, President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, will take over on 1 September 2020 from the current Chair, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Glasgow. Professor Rothwell will be the first woman to take on the role.

The Russell Group represents 24 leading UK universities, based across every region and nation of the country. The Russell Group believes world-class research and education are key to meeting global challenges and helping to create a dynamic economy, stronger communities and a better future for the UK.

Currently, Russell Group universities are playing an important role in the fight against Covid-19, carrying out potentially life-saving research into the virus, as well as giving practical support to NHS staff and local communities. Our universities are also looking ahead to help the Government revitalise and renew the economy as the country takes its first tentative steps out of lockdown.

University of Manchester President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell, said:

“It is a great honour and privilege to be named the next Chair of this prestigious group of historic institutions.

“At present, we find ourselves in unprecedented times. Not just in the higher education sector, but across all of society and that is why it has never been more important for our universities to work collaboratively. Together we can, and must, play a key role in helping the UK and wider international community respond to the Covid-19 pandemic, subsequent recovery, and other global challenges.

“With that in mind, I look forward to working with this group of world-class universities and all other relevant organisations to ensure that UK universities remain global leaders in research, education and their many wider contributions to society.

“I must also recognise the excellent work done by the current Chair, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli who has done an exceptional task in what have been incredibly challenging times for the sector.”