Grant to lead UCL

Professor Grant has been Professor of Land Economy and a Fellow of Clare College at the University of Cambridge since 1991. He was Head of the Department of Land Economy from 1993 to 2002, when he took up the post of Pro-Vice-Chancellor with responsibilities that extended to governance, finance and research.

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Grant said:

"Being at Cambridge has been a marvellous experience, and I am leaving with great regret, and with great respect for the sheer quality of so many of the people I have been privileged to work with.

"However, I am delighted to be returning to UCL, and honoured to have been invited to lead such an outstanding university at this critical point in its history. UCL is an exceptional institution, with a radical tradition and a distinctive character. It competes with huge success at the highest international levels. It is creative and effective in the way it runs, and well-equipped to respond to the many difficult challenges facing UK universities in the coming years."

The Vice-Chancellor Professor Sir Alec Broers praised Professor Grant's service to Cambridge:

"Professor Grant has made an exceptional contribution to the University over the last 12 years. He has brought great intelligence and energy to his work as a Head of Department of Land Economy and as Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research. In the latter role he has very effectively led a group that has reviewed the University's finances and proposed a financial strategy for the future. I feel sure that he will make an excellent Provost at UCL and wish him well in his new responsibilities."

Born and educated in New Zealand, Professor Grant was awarded the CBE this year for services to planning law and local government. He was Chair of the Local Government Commission for England (1996-2001), having served as a member of the commission from 1992.

An environmental lawyer and barrister (Middle Temple), Professor Grant was also the government's choice to be Chair of the new Agriculture & Environment Biotechnology Commission in 2000. The commission provides strategic advice to the government on the implications of biotechnology, including genetic modification, for agriculture and the environment. He is also Chair of the UK Independent Steering Board for the Public Debate on GM, Deputy Chair of the Standards Committee of the Greater London Authority and Chair of the Independent Panel on Councillors' Allowances in London.

Professor Grant has researched and published widely in areas including: planning and environmental law; regulation of biotechnology; local government structures, finance and political management; central-local government relations; human rights, property and participation; and environmental dispute resolution.