Professor Rachel Bearon has been appointed as the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences (NMES) at King’s, starting from January 1, 2024. Currently serving as the Head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences at the University of Liverpool, Professor Bearon specializes in Mathematical Biology.
As a Professor of Mathematical Biology, Rachel Bearon holds extensive expertise in applying mathematics to health challenges. Her research delves into the dynamics of biological systems, such as bacterial chemotaxis, cancer cell motility, and phytoplankton in turbulence. Additionally, she focuses on modeling cell-signaling pathways, intracellular protein dynamics, and drug transport. Professor Bearon’s diverse background also includes being an Associate Member of the PRiSM Centre at the Royal Northern College of Music.
In her new role as Executive Dean, Professor Bearon expresses her honor and enthusiasm for leading the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences. She is excited about the faculty’s growth trajectory in interdisciplinary research and education, and vows to champion their responsibilities to each other as staff and students within King’s, as well as to society at large.
During her tenure at the University of Liverpool, Rachel Bearon has made significant contributions to teaching in the Department of Mathematical Sciences. She has revamped teaching materials and methods to enhance research-led teaching for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Moreover, Professor Bearon is deeply committed to encouraging young individuals to pursue STEM subjects. In 2022, she served as the President of the Mathematics Section of the British Science Association and is a Trustee of the University of Liverpool Maths School – the first specialist math school for 16-19-year-olds in Northern England.
The appointment of Professor Rachel Bearon is considered a pivotal moment for King’s. Her expertise and leadership are expected to play a crucial role in the university’s ongoing investments in research and education in sciences and engineering. Professor Bearon will collaborate with colleagues in the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences to bolster the university’s commitment to tackling societal challenges by leveraging their strengths in areas such as Artificial Intelligence, digital technology, the physical sciences of life, net zero technologies, and interdisciplinary connections.
Senior Vice President (Academic) Professor Rachel Mills expresses her delight and belief in the significance of Professor Bearon’s appointment. She highlights the importance of her leadership in furthering the university’s endeavors in research and education across sciences and engineering. Professor Mills also emphasizes the collaborative nature of the university’s work, aiming to address major societal challenges and leverage their strengths by fostering interdisciplinary connections both within and beyond King’s.
In conclusion, Professor Rachel Bearon’s appointment as the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences at King’s is met with enthusiasm and optimism. Her extensive knowledge and research in Mathematical Biology, alongside her passion for teaching and promoting STEM subjects, make her well-suited for the role. With her leadership, King’s aims to continue its investments in research and education, particularly in sciences and engineering, to address major societal challenges and strengthen their interdisciplinary approach.
