Appointment underlines research commitment.
Coventry University has strengthened its commitment to research excellence with the addition of Professor Olivier Sparagano as Associate Pro Vice Chancellor for Research.
Professor Sparagano joins from Northumbria University and brings with him a wealth of experience in this field, having previously held the position of Associate Dean for Research and Innovation in addition to working in UK Higher Education for over 20 years.
Working closely with Professor Kevin Warwick, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, he will head up the University’s new research office, which will ensure that the institution continues to offer tailored support for academics as well as strengthening links with the business community.
Professor Warwick said: “Olivier arrives at a very significant time in the University’s life as we undergo a transition to an institution where quality research is of critical importance in all areas. As well as the significant investment in research centres, staff and facilities, we are looking to dramatically increase the number of successful PhD students on campus.
“We also continue to drive forward the production of top quality research papers, with all academic staff having a major role to play in this work. Olivier will be critical in this push, as well as supporting our ultimate ambition of being a research-intensive university.”
Since his arrival at Coventry University, Professor Sparagano has been elected as Chair of a European Cooperation in Science and Technology (COST) Action Grant totalling £516,000, leading on research into poultry ectoparasites, which will see the University collaborating with 17 European partners.
He is also the President of the Society for Tropical Veterinary Medicine and a Fellow of the HEA, STVM, Society of Biology and the Royal Entomological Society. Professor Sparagano has published more than 130 refereed papers.
Professor Sparagano added: “Through its new research strategy, the university has underlined its ambitions to become a force in research with impact and I welcome the opportunity to be a part of this drive.
“Our role in securing the COST Action Grant will help us to position Coventry University as a recognised producer of high-quality research, as well as strengthening our relationships with key academics and institutions across Europe and I look forward to leading this activity.”
For more information on Coventry University’s research strategy Excellence with Impact, visit www.coventry.ac.uk/research.
