University of Lincoln Appoint Two New Pro Vice Chancellors

The University appointed Professor Abigail Moriarty as Pro Vice Chancellor Education and Students and Professor Karl Dayson as Pro Vice Chancellor Research and Knowledge Exchange. Abigail and Karl will both take up their posts in April 2024.

Professor Abigail Moriarty will be responsible for the development and delivery of a new educational model which will deliver impactful and relevant teaching, reflective of the diverse background of Lincoln students.

Abigail brings a vast range of practice and knowledge in the development of student experience in Higher Education. Since 2019 she has been Pro Vice Chancellor for Learning and Teaching at the University of Sunderland, where she designed and implemented a universally inclusive curriculum. Prior to that, she was Director of Teaching and Learning and interim Pro Vice Chancellor (Academic) at De Montfort University in Leicester.

Abigail’s research interests span both student learning and professional practice. Much of her recent work has sought to improve understanding of how students succeed in Higher Education, and what barriers prevent them from reaching their full potential, by designing a universally inclusive student experience, that is professions facing and inspiring to learners.

Professor Abigail Moriarty said: “I am delighted the announcement of my new role at the University of Lincoln as Pro Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students is finally out. Lincoln shares my own professional and personal values about the transformational impact Higher Education has on people’s lives.

“I am passionate about a student centric experience and this truly being the lived experience for all studying at the University. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to shape the educational landscape at Lincoln, and I look forward to working with dynamic colleagues there.”

Professor Karl Dayson will be responsible for leading the transformation of the University’s approach to research. He will address, through collaboration, the global challenges that are grounded in regional priorities.

Karl is currently the Pro-Vice Chancellor for Research and Enterprise at the University of Salford with responsibility for the strategic delivery of research, knowledge exchange and commercialisation activity. He is also the executive lead for environmental sustainability. During his time at Salford, Karl has been credited with the University’s vast improved research and knowledge exchange ranking and performance.

An economic sociologist, Karl’s research has focused on alternative forms of finance and issues related to financial inclusion, this includes groundbreaking work with community owned finance bodies.

Professor Karl Dayson said: “I’m delighted to be joining Lincoln and I’m looking forward to working with colleagues to further develop the University’s excellence in research and knowledge exchange and enhance the overall reputation of the institution.”

Vice Chancellor of the University of Lincoln, Professor Neal Juster, said: “Abigail and Karl are joining us at an exciting time, and they will be assets in helping to develop the University’s teaching and learning model and build on our world leading research. The University is embarking on its transformational vision to become one of the top 15 UK universities by 2050 and their expertise will help to guide the University’s vision to transform society. We are aware there are many challenges and opportunities ahead and they will be key members of the senior team ensuring that we can meet our ambition.” 

The University has entered the next stage of development in line with its strategic plan covering the period up to 2027. The appointment of both Professor Karl Dyson, along with Professor Abigail Moriarty, is a key step forward in continuing the delivery of impactful, world-leading education, which helps to improve communities and international connectivity.

These appointments are announced after the departures of Professor Liz Mossop to Sheffield Hallam University as Vice Chancellor, and Professor Andrew Hunter due to retirement.