Introducing our new Associate Heads of Department

10 November 2025

We are delighted to announce that Professor Rebeccah Slater and Professor Simon Draper have been elected to new roles as Associate Head for Research Strategy and Associate Head for Research Delivery respectively. 

 

Rebeccah Slater

As Associate Head for Research Strategy, Rebeccah will provide high-level strategic direction for the department’s research activities and represent us both within the University and externally.

Rebeccah’s focus will be on driving our research strategy and supporting excellence across all areas of our work. This includes identifying new opportunities and collaborative environments, enhancing grant application success rates, and leading major strategic bids. She will work with Simon Draper, our new Associate Head for Research Delivery, to strengthen relationships with our national and international funders and partners, and will also work closely with Professor Teresa Lambe, our Associate Head for People & Culture.

In addition, Rebeccah will play an important role in supporting fellowship candidates and contributing to the development and consultation of University-wide research policies.

 

 

 

 

Simon Draper

As Associate Head for Research Delivery, Simon will help shape and support our research strategy and its delivery, providing strategic oversight and leadership across all of our research activities, and deputising for the Head of Department where necessary.

Simon’s aim will be to strengthen our research cohesion, aligning our portfolio with global health priorities, working with Rebeccah, our new Associate Head for Research Strategy, and Tess Lambe, Associate Head for People & Culture, to build strong relationships with national and international funders and partners.

Simon will also help to coordinate policy implementation, ensure departmental compliance with key frameworks (like REF 2028), and oversee the management of essential research resources, including space and matched funding.

 

 

 

We look forward to working with them to strengthen and advance the department’s research and teaching community.