Cambridge University nominates Sir Leszek Borysiewicz as new Vice-Chancellor

Professor Sir Leszek Borysiewicz has been nominated as the next Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, the full-time head of the University and its most senior academic officer. Subject to the approval of the Regent House, the University’s governing body, he will succeed the present Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alison Richard, at the end of her seven year term on October 1 2010.

Professor Borysiewicz is currently Chief Executive of the Medical Research Council, and was knighted in 2001 for his research into developing vaccines, including a vaccine to prevent the development of cervical cancer. He has previously been Governor of the Welcome Trust and Deputy Rector at Imperial College London.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Borysiewicz said, “I am delighted to be nominated for the position of Vice-Chancellor and excited by the opportunity to build on Cambridge’s strong tradition of academic excellence in both teaching and research. I will be sad to leave the Medical Research Council but I am proud to have helped the MRC write the next chapter in its long and successful history of improving human health through the impact of its excellent research.”

Professor Frank Kelly, Master of Christ’s College, Cambridge, who oversaw the search, said, "The University has a history of academic excellence, built upon first-class teaching and research...Professor Borysiewicz's wide experience and outstanding personal qualities equip him superbly to lead Cambridge as a world-leading centre for education and research."