International law expert appointed as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research

Professor Noam Lubell is the new Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research from this week. Joining the University of Essex’s Executive Committee, Professor Lubell will play a central role in the development and implementation of the University's research strategy.

Professor Lubell said: “The University of Essex has an incredible record of research that makes a tangible difference to lives locally and internationally.

“Our strength in research and knowledge exchange is a testament to the talent here, and despite the current challenges in the sector, the future is full of potential. I am looking forward to working alongside everyone to expand our research activities and deepen our positive footprint.”

Professor Chris Greer will be stepping up to the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor after serving as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research from 2021.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Frances Bowen said: “I am delighted to welcome Noam to this important academic leadership role, which will continue to strengthen our international reputation for research across the social sciences, science, health and the humanities.

“He brings a wealth of experience in leading and working on projects which cross disciplinary boundaries, and in-depth knowledge of developing partnerships that put research into action. His insight and leadership will be invaluable as we shape our future ambitions, respond to the evolving UK research landscape, and deliver meaningful benefits for the communities we serve.”

More about Professor Lubell

Professor Lubell is an expert on international humanitarian law and previously served as Head of Essex Law School from 2014 to 2017. He has also held the Swiss Chair of International Humanitarian Law at The Geneva Academy, and been the Rapporteur of the International Law Association's Committee on the Use of Force.

He has a strong track record of working across disciplines, including as Principal Investigator and researcher on many collaborative projects at Essex and internationally with experts from public health, politics, ethics, neuroscience, and computer science, and was a Senior Research Fellow at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory.

He is currently the Principal Investigator on a large ESRC project on cumulative civilian harm and proportionality in warfare. In addition to his academic work, during the last thirty years Professor Lubell has worked with a wide range of human rights and humanitarian organisations, and provided training in human rights law and the laws of armed conflict to NGOs, militaries, government bodies and the media.