"Chief Constable Rodenhurst's unusual retirement sparks debate: Bedfordshire weighs the impact on trust, finances, and police reform. Can experience and innovation co-exist?"
The University of Bedfordshire is thrilled to announce the addition of two highly accomplished female professors to its distinguished faculty. These appointments underscore the institution's ongoing commitment to academic excellence and diversity.
Introducing Professor Julie Brunton
Professor Julie Brunton joins the University of Bedfordshire as the new Professor of Higher Education Teaching and Learning. Currently serving as the pro-vice chancellor of education and student experience, Professor Brunton brings a wealth of expertise and leadership experience to her role.
Before her tenure at Bedfordshire, Professor Brunton held senior academic and directorial positions at Sheffield Hallam University, Leeds Trinity University, and the University of Nottingham in China. She is a principal fellow of the Higher Education Academy and has been instrumental in securing major European Union funding grants. Additionally, she has played a crucial role in enhancing the student experience through strategic provisions for sports in over 70 universities worldwide.
As part of her executive responsibilities at the University of Bedfordshire, Professor Brunton will lead the education and student experience strategy. "I’m very pleased to be the first Professor to gain this achievement via the teaching, learning, and student academic experience pathway," she said. "I hope to encourage and support other staff to achieve professorships or associate professorships via this route."
Welcoming Professor Enjie Liu
Professor Enjie Liu has been named the new Professor of Networked Applications within the School of Computer Science and Technology. Prior to joining Bedfordshire in 2003, Professor Liu earned her PhD from Queen Mary’s University and has since published over 100 peer-reviewed papers, establishing herself as a pivotal figure in healthcare-focussed computer science research.
Her extensive contributions to the field include advancements in network management and wireless network protocols. In collaboration with prestigious organisations such as the Engineering & Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), the European Union, and Nuffield Health, she has significantly shaped technical aspects within her domain.
Looking ahead, Professor Liu aims to focus on advancing her research in AI and AI-enabled vertical applications for 5G and 6G technologies. "After this promotion, I will focus on advancing my research in the field of AI and AI-enabled vertical applications for 5G and 6G. I will lead and contribute to research in these areas and continue to generate impactful outputs," said Professor Liu.
Institutional Support and Recognition
These appointments have been warmly welcomed by Professor Andrew Church, pro-vice-chancellor for research and innovation at the University of Bedfordshire. "I am delighted we are able to recognise the vital and impactful work of female colleagues at the University through these two new professorships," said Professor Church. "Celebrating their achievements underscores our commitment to fostering excellence and diversity in academia at the University of Bedfordshire."
The addition of Professors Brunton and Liu exemplifies the university's dedication to attracting top-tier talent and promoting an environment where outstanding academic contributions are recognised and celebrated.
