Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research)

Professor Louise Bracken is Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange at Northumbria University.

Louise works closely with the University Executive shaping and delivering the University’s Vision, Strategy and supporting plans. In her role Louise provides strategic leadership, vision and ambition in the development of research and knowledge exchange across the University, creating opportunities and a positive research culture.

In her role, Louise develops and maintains strong relationships with key internal and external stakeholders to maximise opportunities and influence decision makers in the external research environment, for the benefit of the University.

Louise leads the preparations and planning for the University’s REF submissions.

Working closely with PVC (Education) Louise develops the University’s Knowledge Exchange Framework and Strategy, monitoring its implementation and evaluating its impact.

She also leads the formulation and development of the University’s approach to impact and commercialisation, enhancing collaboration for enterprise initiatives, increasing knowledge transfer and consultancy activity.

Louise’s portfolio directly supports Northumbria's 2030 Strategy ambition around creating new knowledge. Knowledge exchange underpins all three of the Strategic ambitions. Louise is responsible for two out of the four core Strategic Delivery Plans (Research and Knowledge Exchange).

Prior to joining Northumbria, Louise joined Durham University as a lecturer in 1999. During her 22 years at Durham University Louise gained promotion to Senior Lecturer, Reader and Professor. Louise then secured the role of DVPR in 2019. As DVPR Louise supported the delivery of Durham University’s Research and Engagement Strategy and was the institutional lead for research culture.

Louise was awarded Geography BSc from Leeds University and her PhD from Birmingham University.

Louise is an interdisciplinary researcher specialising in the science of fluvial geomorphology, flooding, and managing hazard and risk. Louise has published over 80 articles, been principle and co-investigator on over £25M of research grants and has supervised over 25 postgraduate students to successful completion.

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