School of Chemistry appoints new Head
19 June 2017
Professor Damien Murphy has been appointed the Head of the University’s School of Chemistry
Professor Murphy will oversee all of the School’s activities as it looks to build on its outstanding track record in research and engagement and continued investment in state-of-the-art facilities for both staff and students.
Professor Murphy takes over the role from Professor Rudolf Allemann, who was recently appointed Pro Vice-Chancellor College of Physical Sciences and Engineering.
On taking up the post, Professor Murphy said: “The School of Chemistry has witnessed tremendous success in recent years, with an increase in student numbers, staff recruitment, research income and diversification of our research. I am proud of these achievements and excited by the opportunity to lead the School forward and deliver continued excellence in teaching, research, innovation and engagement”
“All of our staff are incredibly committed and passionate about Chemistry, so I am also honoured to work with them over the next few years.”
Professor Murphy obtained his degree in chemistry from the Dublin Institute of Technology before going on to study for his PhD at the Universitá di Torino, Italy.
From 1994 to 1995, Professor Murphy was a Postdoctorate Research Fellow at the Instituto Superior Technico in Lisbon and later at Pierre-and-Marie-Curie University in Paris.
He moved to Cardiff University in 1996 as a Lecturer in Physical Chemistry, and until recently held the role of Director of Research and Deputy Head of School.
Professor Murphy’s research focuses on the applications of advanced Electron Paramagnetic Resonance (EPR) spectroscopic techniques to study free radicals, reactive oxygen species and paramagnetic centres in a wide range of molecular systems, from photocatalysis to homogeneous catalysis.
As an experienced University lecturer in physical chemistry, Professor Murphy is passionate about teaching and the importance of education in an ever evolving subject.
“Whilst chemistry remains a vitally important subject, underpinning many other disciplines, the future of the chemical sciences remains uncertain,” Professor Murphy continued. “It is important that we provide our students with the essential innovative skills required in the transformative and modern chemical sectors to ensure that the Cardiff chemistry graduate remains highly recognised and in demand.”
Professor Rudolf Allemann, Pro Vice-Chancellor College of Physical Sciences and Engineering, said: “I am delighted that Professor Murphy has taken up the role. He already has a wealth of experience and is extremely passionate about chemistry and education, so I look forward to working with him closely on shaping the School’s future activities.”
The School of Chemistry attracts over 180 students from around the world each year and has recently invested over £14 million in its facilities to enable research in all branches of core and interdisciplinary chemistry.
In the REF 2014 research assessment exercise the School was ranked 9th in the UK, with more than 95% of its research ranked internationally excellent or world-leading.