Professor takes 'terrific opportunity' at university

Professor Jenny Higham said she was delighted to bring her experience to Suffolk

A professor has taken up what she described as a "terrific opportunity" at a university.

The University of Suffolk - based in Ipswich - has welcomed Prof Jenny Higham as its new vice chancellor as the academic year begins.

She comes from the same role at St George's, University of London which she joined in 2015 as its first female leader in its 290-year history.

Prof Higham, who takes over from retired Prof Helen Langton, said she was "excited" about her move to Suffolk.

"I am so delighted to be bringing my wealth of higher education experience to this rapidly progressing and ambitious university," she said.

"It is a terrific opportunity to work closely with staff, students and all its partners to continue this positive momentum."

Prof Higham has specialist medical background and has chaired the Medical Schools Council.

In addition to her vice chancellor role in Suffolk, she has national responsibilities sitting on the boards of both the University and Colleges Employers Association and Universities UK.

She is also a council member of the All-Party Parliamentary University Group that is the main avenue of communication between parliamentarians and vice-chancellors of the UK’s universities

Chair of the University of Suffolk board, Ian Ailles, said her "sector knowledge and expertise will be a huge asset".