Top post for Dundee University principal Pete Downes

Universities Scotland has appointed Dundee University principal Professor Pete Downes as its convener for the next two years.

He was already a member of its executive committee and has led its research and knowledge committee.

Director Alastair Sim said: ”I am delighted that Prof Downes is willing to undertake this role at a time of challenge and opportunity for the sector.”

Universities Scotland represents all 19 higher education institutions in the country and seeks to promote their value to Scottish society and ensure the sector’s voice is heard by policy-makers.

Prof Downes joined Dundee University in 1989 and was head of the college of life sciences before taking the top job. He was made an OBE in 2004.

His vice-convener at Universities Scotland will be Professor Petra Wend, principal of Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh.