University of Hertfordshire announces new Dean of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences

The University of Hertfordshire has announced it has appointed Professor Irene Ctori as the Dean of the new School of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences.

Currently Associate Dean Undergraduate Studies in the School of Health & Psychological Sciences at City St George’s, University of London, Professor Ctori is responsible for the strategic delivery of undergraduate education within the School. She has held several key education leadership roles during her time at City, contributing to curriculum design, approval and the overall student experience at a programme, school and institutional level.

Professor Ctori has also had an extensive career in optometry and is a qualified optometrist and Professor of Optometry, with more than 25 years’ experience in a wide range of clinical optometric practice.

She is the elected Vice-President of the College of Optometrists and is also a Trustee of the Board and Council member, having previously been Chair of the Education and Standards Committee. She gained Fellowship of the College in 2023 in recognition of her contribution to the profession and was recently awarded National Teaching Fellow (NTF) and gained her Principal Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (PFHEA).

Following news of her appointment, Professor Ctori said:

“I’m excited to be joining the University of Hertfordshire to lead the new School, and I’m really looking forward to working with staff to build on existing successes in health, allied health, medical and life sciences education and research.

“I believe the School is well placed to play a critical role in addressing NHS needs for clinical workforce both nationally and locally, to deliver world-class and impactful research, and to provide fantastic opportunities for our students.”

The new School of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences brings together the University’s current Schools of Health and Social Work and Life and Medical Sciences, alongside the planned Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme. It launches on 1 March 2025, with Professor Ctori will commencing her new role as Dean of the School from 10 March.

Professor Mairi Watson, Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Hertfordshire said:

“I’m very pleased to welcome Professor Ctori to the University of Hertfordshire at such an exciting stage in our development in Health, Medicine and Life Sciences.  She will be pivotal in building a strong team to deliver on our ambitions in this area, working with local stakeholders to ensure the regional priorities of Hertfordshire are supported by an employer focussed curriculum and through research with local, national and international impact.”