The Edinburgh Futures Institute is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Enda Delaney to the post of Director of Research, taking effect from 1st January 2024 for an initial period of three years.
Professor Delaney will play a key role within the Futures Institute, supporting our ambition to build an interdisciplinary, collaborative, and creative environment through the promotion of challenge-led research co-designed with local communities, the third sector, and business and industry partners.
The Futures Institute has established a role in supporting Schools across all three Colleges in the University in developing strategic research centres and innovative projects and activities. As Director of Research, Professor Delaney will bring in-depth knowledge and understanding of the University’s research mechanisms, processes, and the many relationships that are involved in the delivery of successful research strategies, as well as awareness of the UK funding landscape.
Professor Delaney is Chair in Modern History, a scholar in comparative and transnational history, currently working on the history of human cognition and culture. He will bring to the role of Director of Research a wealth of leadership experience and expertise, having served as Director of Research in the School of History, Classics and Archaeology from 2017 until 2020, and as interim Director of Faculty more recently.
Professor Chris Speed, Director of Edinburgh Futures Institute said:
“I am delighted that Professor Delaney will be leading the Futures Institute’s continuing growth as an established force in data-driven research and innovation. Professor Delaney brings with him a reputation for internationally-recognised scholarly work and a deep experience of supporting successful research cultures, which will help us implement the next phase of our development as a world-leading research institute.”
Professor Speed also expressed his thanks to Professor Melissa Terras, the Institute’s first Director of Research who helped initiate the institute’s dynamic research environment, and interim Director Dr Theodor Cojoianu, who stepped in the role over the last twelve months.
Professor Delaney said:
“The Edinburgh Futures Institute is already establishing itself as an inspiring and innovative space for interdisciplinary research that tackles the world’s biggest challenges – from planetary health to artificial intelligence, creative industries and financial technology. I am excited to play a key role in driving the research ambitions of the Futures Institute, working alongside its dedicated researchers, staff, and students.
