Principal and Vice Chancellor

The office of Principal dates from the early days of the University but its function has changed on a number of occasions over the centuries. The role of Principal today can be likened to that of chief executive of the University.

Although for many years the Principal was appointed by the Crown, the appointment is now made by the University Court to whom the Principal is responsible for the running of the University.

The Principal sits on the University Court and is also President of the Senate, the supreme academic body in the University. In modern times the Principal has also fulfilled the role of Vice Chancellor and carries out the task of conferring degrees in the Chancellor's absence.

The Principal of the University of Glasgow is Professor Anton Muscatelli who took up office in October 2009.