Meet Professor Jonathan Hickman-Heron, our new Academic Director (Postgraduate Research)
Jonathan told us:
"During my time at Warwick, I have been fortunate to have worked alongside countless research students, academic staff and professional colleagues from all three faculties on interdisciplinary modules and collaborative programmes.
These experiences have shown me that postgraduate students are integral to our academic life. They are an emerging international community of researchers, teachers and leaders, and they deserve the best possible support.
As Academic Director (PGR), and through the Doctoral College and the Postgraduate Research Subcommittee, I am committed to serving the needs of our postgraduates and celebrating their achievements."
Lorenzo commented:
“I am delighted that Jonathan has taken up the role of Academic Director (Postgraduate Research). His extensive experience in academic leadership, coupled with a deep commitment to the postgraduate research portfolio, will be instrumental in advancing our education strategy.
Jonathan will be ensuring that Warwick maintains the highest standards of academic supervision, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhancing the experience of our postgraduate research students. I very much look forward to working closely with him as he brings purpose, leadership, and vision to this important portfolio."
About Jonathan
Jonathan is an interdisciplinary academic leader with a background in the arts and humanities. He was previously Head of Department for the Institute for Advanced Teaching and Learning (IATL) (2018-23), a member of the University Education Executive (2020-22) and Chair of the Interdisciplinary Working Group for the Academic Resourcing Committee (2022-23).
During this period, he led on educational innovation and student research programmes, bringing together staff and students from across our faculties and departments to support the institutional achievement of TEF Gold in 2023.
He is a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (Advance HE), Honorary Fellow of the Warwick International Higher Education Academy and the Warwick Institute of Engagement, working across our education and research strategies towards a more accessible, engaged and inclusive University.
His own research has been published widely within the medical humanities, theatre & performance studies and drama education, where he has worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company and the National Health Service.
He regularly presents on educational leadership, both as a keynote speaker and workshop facilitator, and has worked internationally at Monash University, Trinity College Dublin and the University of Auckland.