Composites specialist appointed Executive Dean of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Surrey University

A specialist in carbon fibre reinforced composites has been appointed the new Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Surrey.

Professor Paul Smith is an engineer by background, holding a first degree in Engineering from the University of Cambridge, where he subsequently carried out doctoral research on the mechanical fastening of carbon fibre reinforced composites.  

After joining the University of Surrey in 1986 as a Lecturer in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Paul was promoted to a Personal Chair in 1997 and served as Head of School of Engineering from 2004 - 2007.  

Professor Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor of the Surrey, said: "Paul is an exceptional leader with an excellent track record of high quality research.  This has always been carried out in collaboration with industry, focused on impact as well as academic excellence.”

Professor Smith said: "I am honoured to be appointed Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, and I look forward to working with the many outstanding colleagues here as we look to implement the new research strategy and to develop our international profile further, while seeking to ensure an excellent experience for all our students."