Heriot-Watt University has welcomed Professor Nola Hewitt-Dundas as its new Principal and Vice-Chancellor, marking a significant moment in the university’s history as she becomes the first woman to hold the position.

Professor Hewitt-Dundas took up the post this week, joining from Queen’s University Belfast, where she served as Pro-Vice-Chancellor. An internationally recognised academic in innovation and science policy, she brings experience spanning university leadership, research, governance, global engagement and innovation.

Her appointment comes ahead of the launch of Strategy 2035, Heriot-Watt’s new institutional strategy, which will be unveiled in October and set the university’s direction for the next decade.

Bruce Pritchard, Chair of Court at Heriot-Watt University, said Professor Hewitt-Dundas brings a strong record in research and an understanding of how universities can translate ideas into benefits for communities and society.

He also highlighted the historic significance of her appointment as the university’s first female Principal and Vice-Chancellor.

A focus on impact and innovation

Professor Hewitt-Dundas takes over at a time when Heriot-Watt is looking to build on its long-standing relationship with industry and its focus on practical education and research.

Reflecting on her appointment, she described Heriot-Watt as a university with more than 200 years of experience responding to the needs of industry and society through education, research and real-world impact.

She said the university’s new strategy would build on this heritage while setting its ambitions for the coming decade.

Research and innovation are expected to remain central to that direction. Professor Hewitt-Dundas pointed to Heriot-Watt’s work across disciplinary and interdisciplinary research, as well as its emphasis on entrepreneurship, graduate start-ups, academic spin-outs and technology transfer with industry partners.

She said the university has an opportunity to build on these strengths and broaden its impact by working with students, colleagues, alumni and partners.

Professor Hewitt-Dundas succeeds Professor Richard A. Williams, who will step down at the end of September after 11 years as Principal and Vice-Chancellor. During his tenure, the university expanded its global presence and strengthened its international reputation for research and innovation.

A global university

Founded in Edinburgh, Heriot-Watt University has developed an international campus network spanning Scotland, Dubai and Malaysia. Its Scottish campuses include Edinburgh, the Scottish Borders and Orkney.

The university is particularly known for industry-focused education and research across areas including science, engineering, business and the built environment.

With Strategy 2035 due to launch next month, Professor Hewitt-Dundas begins her tenure as the university prepares to define its priorities and ambitions for the next phase of its development.