Professor Dame Jocelyn Bell Burnell has been appointed as Rector of Brunel University of London.
As the ceremonial figurehead of the University, the Rector confers degrees and presents awards, such as at graduation ceremonies. The postholder also has an important ambassadorial role, working alongside other senior figures from Brunel to represent the university externally.
Professor Dame Jocelyn is an astrophysicist celebrated for a scientific discovery she made in the late 1960s. The focus of her PhD was to study quasars – very bright astronomical objects at the centre of some galaxies. Serendipitously she discovered a series of extremely regular radio pulses, only seconds apart, emanating from a new class of stars. These proved to be rapidly spinning neutron stars, later called pulsars by the press, opening up a new area of physics and astronomy.
Together with her subsequent astronomical career, Professor Dame Jocelyn’s achievements led to her being voted most inspirational living female scientist by New Scientist readers. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society, was the first woman to be elected President of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and received her Damehood in 2007 for services to astronomy. She served as Chancellor of the University of Dundee until last year.
Professor Dame Jocelyn’s appointment follows on from the tenure of Sir Richard Sykes, who was Brunel’s Chancellor from 2013 to 2023.
Professor Dame Jocelyn said: “I am honoured to be appointed Rector of Brunel University of London and look forward to meeting graduates, faculty and staff, current students, and all who have a link with this important university.”
Professor Stuart Palmer, Brunel’s Chair of Council, said: “We are delighted to welcome Professor Dame Jocelyn as our Rector. Her astronomical successes and strong social mission are in alignment with Brunel’s technical focus and how we tackle the major scientific and economic challenges facing society. She will no doubt serve as an inspiration to our staff and students.”
Reported by:
Joe Buchanunn,
Media Relations
+44 (0)1895 268821
joe.buchanunn@brunel.ac.uk