We are pleased to announce that Professor Simon Joss has been appointed as the new Head of the School of Social and Political Sciences at the University of Glasgow.

Simon joined the School in 2018 as Professor of Urban Futures and served as Head of Urban Studies between 2021 and 2024. He will start his new role in August 2025.

Simon’s research explores the governance of urban innovation, with a special interest in the role of emergent urban technologies and related questions of social resonance and public accountability. His teaching covers sustainable urban futures, smart cities and big data governance. Simon has held numerous professional appointments, including as UN consultant and co-author of the UN Habitat World Cities report ‘Envisioning the Future of Cities (2022)'.

Reflecting on his appointment, Simon shared: “I’m honoured to be given the opportunity to lead the School and look forward to working with colleagues to consolidate our research, teaching and external engagement in the coming period. Building on significant innovation and growth in recent years, the School is in a strong position to make an active and positive contribution to addressing social, political and cultural challenges facing contemporary society.”

Talking about the legacy of the outgoing Head of School, Professor Anne Kerr, Professor Sara Carter (Vice-Principal and Head of the College of Social Sciences) shared: “I would like to thank Anne for her leadership of the School over the past six years. Over this period, the School of Social & Political Sciences has strengthened its research base, grown student numbers while improving the student experience, and attracted world-class scholars to live and work in Glasgow. I would also like to welcome Simon as the new Head of School and look forward to working with him on the College Management Group.”

The School extends its sincere thanks to Anne for her outstanding leadership and contributions over the past six years, and wishes Simon every success in his new role.

First published: 10 July 2025

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Professor Simon Joss

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