Congratulations to Professor Dan Branch (History) who has been appointed as Academic Director – Doctoral College (Education) - with effect from 1 October 2021 - to succeed Professor Colin Sparrow. 

Dan will hold the role concurrently with that of Academic Director - Africa, although the primary share of his time will be devoted to the Doctoral College. 

Reporting to the Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education), and as a member of the Education Executive, Dan will provide strategic academic leadership on our postgraduate research student provision and champion doctoral studies across the University, including enhancing the quality of research degree programmes, improving institutional reputation in the sector and facilitating the broader PGR experience. Dan will also work closely with the PVC (Research) on doctoral students and research strategy.  

Dan will also be working with departments to innovate for and sustain the highest national and international standards of PGR programmes, training, and student engagement and assume overall responsibility for the promotion, analysis and planning arising from Postgraduate Research Experience Surveys and other quality assurance activities. 

Dan brings a wealth of departmental and institutional experience and insight to the Doctoral College role and will undoubtedly be a great success. He will build on the excellent work and vision of Colin Sparrow and the Professional Services team to establish the Doctoral College that is already acquiring a strong reputation at Warwick and beyond. 

Chris Hughes Pro-Vice-Chancellor/Vice-President (Education) explains why the role is important: 

The role of Academic Director (Doctoral College) is key to providing the University with academic leadership in delivering national and international excellence in postgraduate research programmes. It also ensures that the PGR student experience is an inclusive and progressive one, and that PG research study is championed across the institution. 

I would like to thank Colin for his commitment to the role and welcome Dan as he takes up the mantle of developing Doctoral College strategy and priorities, and playing a prominent role in developing and delivering the University’s Education and Research strategies.

Professor Dan Branch