Broadcast: News items

The University has appointed Dr Claire Potter as Director of Research and Innovation Services. Dr Potter, who is currently holding the Director role on an interim basis, will take up the permanent position from 1 June.

Claire arrived at Sussex in October 2022 as the Head of Research Development and Initiatives. Prior to Sussex, Claire worked at the University of Birmingham where she was the Head of Research Delivery, based in the College of Medical and Dental Sciences, and was responsible for overseeing the operational support to the college’s research portfolio. Claire has over 25 years’ experience in research management working in and with academia, government, the NHS, charities and industry, including as the Operational Manager at the National Institute for Health and Care Research’s Office for Clinical Research Infrastructure, and the Senior Operational lead for the UK Research and Innovation National Core Studies Programme (Immunology). Claire has a BSc (Hons) and a PhD in Biological Sciences.

Research and Enterprise Services becomes Research and Innovation Services
On the same date as Claire’s role becomes permanent (1 June), our Research and Enterprise Services Division will change its name to Research and Innovation Services (RIS), to better describe its function.

‘Innovation’ is being adopted because of its greater general use, for example in the HE sector with respect to our national funding agency UKRI (UK Research and Innovation), and its innovation agency Innovate UK. ‘Innovation’ as a term encompasses all ‘enterprise’ activities and includes how new ideas and discoveries are made and applied. ‘Innovation’ really gets to the heart of how new discoveries are made.

Reflecting on Claire’s appointment
Professor Keith Jones, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research and Enterprise said: “I am very pleased that Claire will be the new Director of Research and Innovation Services. Claire brings a wealth of experience in the sector to this role, and coupled with the dedicated team we have in RIS, will help us deliver on the new University strategy.”

Emma Potts, Interim Chief Operating Officer and University Secretary said: “I am delighted to have appointed Claire to this critical role for the University, demonstrating the strength of our existing talent and how we can support people to succeed. Claire is an experienced leader and an expert in research management and I know that the Division will continue to thrive in her care.”

Claire said: “I am truly thrilled and very proud to have been appointed as the new Director for Research and Innovation Services. Since arriving at the University I have had a wonderful experience working with fantastic colleagues within RIS. I welcome the opportunity to lead the Division as we continue to work hard to support colleagues across the University in achieving their research ambitions.”