Our Leadership

The University is a key institution for the culture and economy of Dunedin – a city that I have always proudly called home – and has a national and international reputation driven by the energy and expertise of our world-leading staff.

Stephen Higgs, University of Otago Chancellor

Meet our Senior Leadership Team

Professor Helen Nicholson, Acting Vice-Chancellor

Nau mai, haere mai, tauti mai – I am pleased to welcome you to Aotearoa New Zealand’s first university.

The early Scottish settlers who founded the University of Otago in 1869 placed a high value on education and recognised the important role universities play in shaping individuals and society – we are committed to continuing their vision, and growing it to fit today’s and tomorrow’s world. To that end, we place high priority on our partnership with tangata whenua and the importance of te ao Māori.

The University of Otago provides a research-led learning environment with a richly deserved reputation for excellence. As a university community, we are committed to tackling big global challenges and educating the next generation of professionals across a wide range of disciplines.

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PRO-VICE-CHANCELLOR (PVC),
HUMANITIES

Professor Jessica Palmer

PRO-VICE-CHANCELLOR (PVC),
SCIENCES

Professor Richard Barker

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