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Head of Department of Mathematics, Mathematics

What is your role and what does it involve?

I’m head of the mathematics department, and a member of academic staff. I give lectures to first year students, set exams, and give small group tutorials; I also carry out my own research in fluid mechanics, working with graduate students and postdocs. But in addition to the academic parts of the job, I have oversight of the running of the Mathematics department, from appointing new staff to pushing for new space.

How long have you been at ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº?

I’ve been here since 2004.

What attracted you to ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº?

¹û¶³Ó°Ôº Mathematics has a really friendly reputation, and a strong history in fluid mechanics. But a key part of its appeal was being in London: when I moved here my husband and I were able to set up home together for the first time.

What and where was your previous role?

I was a lecturer for a few years at the University of Leeds before I moved to ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº.

What working achievement or initiative at ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº (or in previous work experiences) are you most proud of?

Our department has been in four floors of its current building for 60 years. This September – after a lot of planning and a complex summer of building works – we are gaining a fifth level. That’s a huge thing for the department.

Describe ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº in three words.

Friendly; diverse; exciting.

What is the best aspect about working at ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº?

We have fantastic students! Working with them is by far the best part of my job.

What does it feel like to be part of the ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº community?Ìý

I’ve always felt welcomed here, since I was a junior member of staff. Now that I’m more senior, I hope I can keep that friendliness and openness.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I have two children, so most of my time outside work is spent with them. I watch a lots of children’s sport! In my real down time, though, I do love a cryptic crossword.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

I had both my children while working at ¹û¶³Ó°Ôº. It’s tough, juggling the school day and all the little extras – plays, afternoon teas, sports days – but this job has always been flexible enough that as long as I get it all done in the end, I’m able to be present at all the important things for the kids as well.