Personal statement

Dr. McLaren is the Director of Teaching and Learning for the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering. He has over 30 years’ experience of delivering engineering education. His main area of technical expertise is in materials science, which he teaches to a wide range of students across the Faculty of Engineering. He has pioneered the Faculty’s online delivery of education through his leadership of the Graduate Apprenticeship in "Engineering: Design and Manufacture", which is delivered to apprentices in full-time employment in engineering companies.

Dr. McLaren has wide experience of external examining in a number of UK universities. He is a member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Academic Standards Committee, chairing and taking part in accreditation visits to universities throughout the UK and abroad. He has also served on the working group at the Engineering Council on the implementation of AAQA (Approval and Accreditation of Qualifications and Apprenticeships).

Dr. McLaren is a Convenor of the Glasgow Military Education Committee and supports students interested in a career in the UK Armed Forces. He is the University Armed Forces Champion, supporting serving members of the armed forces, veterans and their families to access study and employment at the University.