Head of Informatics becomes Chartered Physicist
Wed, 19 Jan 2011 15:40:00 GMT
Today's science graduates need to cross boundaries in their research and their careers, and the University of Huddersfield's Dr Rupert Ward is an ideal role model. He is a physicist who works in computing with a burgeoning interest in archaeology and a close involvement in educational research both at home and overseas. His lengthening list of qualifications includes a Masters in Theoretical Physics, a PhD in Atomic Physics, a Masters in Business Administration, a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (Further, Adult and Higher Education) and he is currently completing an MSc in Development Management focusing on aspects of higher education development in Africa.
Dr Ward joined the University's School of Computing and Engineering in 2005 and in January 2009 became Head of Informatics – at age 35 he was the youngest ever head of department at the University. He has continued to add to his range of professional expertise and roster of qualifications and is now a Chartered Physicist of the Institute of Physics, as well as a Fellow of the British Computer Society, a Chartered IT Professional and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
His PhD was in atomic physics, but when he launched his teaching career there was a greater demand for expertise in IT, so he made a transition into the field of computers and software and launched an inter-disciplinary academic career. But there are strong overlaps between physics and computer science, says Dr Ward – for example, the use of algorithms, computer modelling and scientific simulation.
His recent research includes continued work in atomic physics and electron trajectory modelling in magnetic fields, but he also continues to research pedagogical uses of IT, such as mobile learning and 3D representations, and has recently added scientific modelling within archaeology to this work.
This varied academic activity reflects modern society, Dr Ward believes: "It is vital for our students nowadays to be multi-disciplinary and flexible in terms of where their career paths can take them. If you look at the data on employability, you see an increasing number of career changes in graduates. This adaptability is key and reflects my approach to studies, which is very much geared towards applying my skills in numerous different areas."
Informatics at the University of Huddersfield is a thriving area that will continue to grow, according to Dr Ward.
"We have key strengths in terms of linking in with research across the University and beyond. Our strengths in teaching and learning include our computer science, film and games provision including an in-house games studio meeting industry needs. We have a high number of students on placements, and our placement unit is one of the top four in the country. This shows in the high proportion of graduates going to straight into graduate level jobs."
More information on Rupert can be found at the following web-site:
