Dear colleagues,
As we approach Easter, I would like to wish you a happy and enjoyable long weekend break. I hope you are able to ‘recharge your batteries’, get some rest and enjoy the cautious easing of lockdown restrictions from tomorrow, Friday 2 April.
We have made great progress in the first quarter of this year and continued to deliver our key academic and support activities, despite the challenges of lockdown; we can all feel proud of what has been achieved.
This week, I am delighted to tell you that our submission for the 2021 Research Excellence Framework is now complete – I had the pleasure of joining members of our REF management team last Friday to witness the formal process being completed on-line. The upload of the final document signifies an important milestone in our Vision 2025 journey to further the quality, intensity and impact of our world-class research. It has involved several years of hard work and reflects the collective efforts of the whole Strathclyde team. I would like to put on record my thanks to everyone who has been involved in leading and supporting this important piece of work.
There was further good news this week when no fewer than eight Strathclyders were elected Fellows of the Royal Society of Edinburgh. The Fellowships from Scotland’s National Academy recognise colleagues’ excellent contribution spanning engineering, science, the humanities, and industry and entrepreneurship. I know you will join me in warmly congratulating them.
Finally, on behalf of the entire University community, thank you for your ongoing efforts and support. Please enjoy your well-deserved long weekend along with the arrival of the very welcome lighter evenings, and I wish you and yours a peaceful and relaxing break.
Best wishes,
Jim