First female engineering Dean: Professor Joanna Lumsden leads change

Professor Joanna (Jo) Lumsden is breaking barriers upon assuming the role of Dean of Glasgow Caledonian University's School of Computing, Engineering, and Built Environment - as she is the first female to hold the post.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Professor Lumsden said: "I am delighted to take on the role of Dean and contribute to a university that is dedicated to transforming the lives of its students, community, and society at large via delivery of exceptional education and impactful research focused on the Common Good."

Reflecting on her historic appointment, she commented: "I firmly believe that females can, professionally, excel in any field they choose. I also believe, however, it is important that we – all of society – aim to be the best we can be; in a professional setting, that typically means being the best 'person' for the job. That said, I hope that in my role I can provide some inspiration for young females to aspire to positions of leadership."

With a leadership approach rooted in empathy, Professor Lumsden aims to empower her team to achieve excellence.  She said: "My research and leadership are rooted in being kind. I bring to the role an empathetic and servant-leader style of leadership which I hope will empower my team to achieve great things as we move to the next phase of growth and success for the School."

Drawing on her extensive experience, including roles as Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research Integrity and Head of Department at Aston University, Birmingham, as well as her tenure with the National Research Council of Canada, she is well-positioned to lead large teams and drive strategic initiatives.

Professor Lumsden obtained her BSc in Software Engineering (Hons) from the University of Glasgow, where she also later achieved her PhD in Human Computer Interaction (HCI). Her teaching and research interests and expertise are in HCI, especially mobile HCI, and associated evaluation techniques. Much of her research focuses on the user-centred design and development of mobile assistive technologies to improve the quality of life for individuals with special (typically healthcare-related) needs, reflecting her commitment to leveraging technology for societal benefit.

In addition to Professor Lumsden's appointment, Professor Tuleen Boutaleb has been named the first female Vice Dean of the School. Professor Boutaleb's journey from an international undergraduate student to a leader in Electronic Engineering exemplifies the transformative impact of education and opportunities for women in STEM fields.