Julia Buckingham, vice-chancellor of Brunel University London,?has been elected the next president of Universities UK.

She will succeed Dame Janet Beer, the University of Liverpool¡¯s vice-chancellor, from 1 August 2019, becoming the third successive woman to hold the post ¨C which, until 2015, had only ever been held by men. Presidents of UUK ¨C one of two representative groups for the sector alongside GuildHE, with a key remit to represent universities in talks with the government ¨C serve for two years. Presidents are elected by member vice-chancellors.

Professor Buckingham will take the post at a key time for English universities in particular ¨C as the government could be forming or finalising its response to the post-18 education review report in late summer.

Professor Buckingham?has been vice-chancellor of Brunel since 2012, previously holding senior leadership positions at Imperial College London and Charing Cross and Westminster Medical School, and has served on the UUK board since 2014.

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As an undergraduate,?she read read zoology at the University of Sheffield, worked briefly in the pharmaceutical industry, then studied for a PhD in pharmacology at the University of London.

Alistair Jarvis, UUK chief executive, said: ¡°Julia is widely respected across the sector as a successful leader and effective champion of gender equality, research and student mental health issues. The experience and expertise she brings from a background which combines industry and academia will be invaluable as she leads our university sector.¡±

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Professor Buckingham said: ¡°In the current climate of uncertainty and unprecedented change, universities ¨C whatever their specialism, mission or geography ¨C are in a position to make a huge difference to the country, to the economy and to individuals¡¯ lives.

¡°We are at the centre of the most important issues: educating the workforce and addressing the skills gap; strengthening our research base and driving innovation and entrepreneurism.

¡°We are a force for good, tackling issues right at the heart of our society such as social mobility, inclusivity, mental health and well-being; and ensuring that UK higher education remains at the forefront globally.¡±

john.morgan@timeshighereducation.com