University announces key research appointment

The University of the Highlands and Islands has appointed Professor Neil Simco as its Vice-Principal for Research and Impact. Professor Simco will be responsible for leading and overseeing the university’s research activity in the role.

Professor Simco started his career as a primary school teacher in England, before moving into teacher education in the early 1990s. He held positions as Dean of Education at St Martin’s College and Interim Pro-Vice Chancellor at the University of Cumbria, before joining the University of the Highlands and Islands in 2009.
 
In his time with the University of the Highlands and Islands, Professor Simco has played an important part in developing the university’s curriculum through roles as the Dean of Business and Leisure; Dean of Arts, Humanities and Business and the Assistant Principal for Curriculum Growth.
 
Professor Simco lives in Bonar Bridge, Sutherland, with his wife and children. A keen Gaelic learner, he has attended several courses at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig UHI on Skye. He has produced a number of books, edited collections and articles on teacher education and is a trustee of the General Teaching Council for Scotland.
 
Speaking about his appointment, Professor Simco said: “It is a real privilege to lead research at the University of the Highlands and Islands. We already have a significant amount of world leading and internationally excellent research in fields such as marine, energy, environmental science, archaeology, health, Nordic studies and history, and there is much to do to build on what has already been achieved as we further expand our research work.”
 
University of the Highlands and Islands Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Clive Mulholland, said: “We are delighted to appoint Professor Neil Simco to this important role. He has dedicated his career to teaching and education and has been a valuable asset to the university since joining us in 2009. The university’s mission is to have a transformational impact on the prospects of our region. Our research, inspired by the environment, culture, industries and people of the Highlands and Islands, is a crucial part of this.”