Paul A. Townsend

Deputy Principal Research and Innovation @University Of Stirling

GB

As the Deputy Principal for Research & Innovation at the University of Stirling, I lead our dynamic agenda to amplify and expand the impact of our research across disciplines. I aim to drive an ambitious, transformative strategy, based upon our Univeristy 2030 strategy, aimed at tackling today’s global challenges, ensuring we deliver real-world impact for the greater good.I am responsible for cultivating a vibrant research culture that inspires collaboration, innovation, and ongoing societal benefit. By empowering researchers, our talented undergraduate and postgraduate research students, and our exceptional partners, I connect our community with industry, government, and local stakeholders. Together, we focus on enriching our education and citizenship by translating cutting-edge R&I into tangible benefits for society and the economy.With oversight of strategic initiatives—including a senior role in our exciting City Region Deal—I aim to guide the university’s R&I portfolio to align with regional, national, and international priorities, ensuring that our academic ecosystem is robust, inclusive, and positioned for sustainable growth. My role encompasses talent development, resource identification and allocation, and championing interdisciplinary research that addresses pressing issues such as climate change, health, social inclusion, digital transformation, and so much more.Whether advancing our institutional partnerships, securing funding, or enhancing our R&I infrastructure, I am committed to growing the role that the University of Stirling has as a sustainable, global hub of knowledge, creativity, and impact—driving our 2030 vision to be an international leader in R&I.