Computer expert new head of University of Surrey

Professor Stephen Jarvis will take over as the new vice-chancellor of the University of Surrey

A distinguished computer scientist will take over as head of the University of Surrey, it has confirmed.

Professor Stephen Jarvis, an expert in data science and artificial intelligence (AI), will take over the role of president and vice-chancellor of the university in the autumn.

Prof Jarvis will take on the role having served as the provost and vice-principal of the University of Birmingham since 2023.

He joins the university after Professor Max Lu, the vice-chancellor at Surrey since 2016, announced his departure in December 2024 to lead the University of Wollongong in Australia.

Prof Jarvis acknowledges there are "significant challenges" but says the university "is especially well-placed to play a key role in developing and implementing solutions to global challenges, while equipping its students to be the leaders of the future".

Prior to joining the university, Professor Jarvis helped to set up The Alan Turing Institute, the UK's national institute for data science and AI.

Charlie Geffen, chair of the University of Surrey Council, said: "Stephen's outstanding track record in research, leadership and strategic vision made him the clear choice."