It is with great sadness that we inform you that Professor Andrew Hamnett, former Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Strathclyde, has died.
A distinguished chemist, Professor Hamnett was Strathclyde’s fourth Principal, serving from 2000 to 2009 and guiding the University through a period of significant transformation, growth and modernisation.
Born in Stockport, Professor Hamnett studied Chemistry at Oxford, earning his DPhil in 1973. His early career included posts at the Universities of British Columbia, Oxford and Newcastle.
Influential contributions
At Oxford, he made influential contributions to electrochemistry, notably with Nobel Laureate John Goodenough on low-carbon fuel cells. In 1989, he became Professor of Physical Chemistry at Newcastle, later serving as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and then Deputy Vice-Chancellor.
His commitment to knowledge exchange and industry attracted him to join Strathclyde, with its founding ethos of ‘useful learning’.
During his tenure Professor Hamnett oversaw the successful integration of Jordanhill College of Education into the University, reformed faculty structures to encourage collaboration and improved alignment across disciplines. His leadership led to the formation of the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Law, Arts and Social Sciences, strengthening the role of humanities and social sciences within Strathclyde’s technological focus.
During this time, Strathclyde also played a leading role in the European Consortium of Innovative Universities.
The University established the Institute of Advanced Studies to foster interdisciplinary research, and spearheaded campus redevelopment projects, including the construction of the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences building. A wing of that building bears his name in recognition of his contribution.
Professor Hamnett was a Fellow of the Royal Society of Edinburgh and received an Honorary Doctorate of Civil Law from Newcastle University.
Fitting recognition
In May last year, Professor Hamnett was awarded the title of Emeritus Principal at a special ceremony in the Barony Hall, in recognition of his contribution to Strathclyde which he attended with members of his family.
Professor Sir Jim McDonald, Principal & Vice-Chancellor, said: “Andrew was a driving force behind the relocation of the Faculty of Education from the Jordanhill campus to the John Anderson campus – a move he initiated and passionately supported to enable closer academic integration and better student experience.
“Throughout his time at Strathclyde, he encouraged innovation, entrepreneurship, and high-quality research and teaching. Andrew will be remembered not only for his formidable intellect and leadership, but also for his warmth, cultural sophistication and broad talents.
He leaves behind a legacy of academic excellence and institutional reform. His vision, intellect and values have left a significant mark on the University of Strathclyde, and he will be remembered with admiration, gratitude and affection.
“I greatly enjoyed seeing Andrew last year when we conferred his Emeritus Principal status – a fitting recognition of his academic status and service to Strathclyde.
“I know I speak on behalf of the entire Strathclyde community in offering our deepest condolences to Andrew’s wife Suzanne, his daughters Gillian, Erica and Hilary, his wider family and to all who knew, admired and loved Andrew.”