Aston University names first Adobe professor

Aston University has appointed Professor Rachel Dodd as its first Adobe professor of digital innovation, marking a global first for the role.

Professor Dodd will lead the integration of Adobe’s digital tools across the curriculum, supporting Aston’s 2030 strategy for enhanced student experience, employability and growth. 

The university, the Midlands’ first Adobe Creative Campus, aims to equip students with industry-standard digital skills and ensure ethical, equal access to cutting-edge generative AI tools.

Previously at Teesside University, Professor Dodd brings extensive experience in education, media, and IT services, and will drive activities at Aston’s Adobe Creative Campus Hub in partnership with Design Factory Birmingham.

She said: “It’s an understatement to say I’m delighted to have joined Aston University. 

“I’m eager to leverage my experience to ensure our partnership with Adobe empowers the entire Aston University community with industry-leading digital tools. 

“The Adobe Creative Campus will embed workplace-ready digital technologies, across all disciplines, providing our students and staff with vital skills for success in work and life.”

Professor Aleks Subic, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Aston University, added: “Based in the heart of the Birmingham Innovation Quarter, Aston University is focused on technology innovation and extending the reach of digital technologies. 

“Professor Dodd’s new position is jointly sponsored by global digital leader Adobe as part of our strategic partnership in establishing Aston University as the Adobe Creative Campus for the West Midlands. 

“Rachel will play a critical role in transforming our teaching and learning through digital innovation. 

“Her role will help ensure that every student and staff member will be able to exploit the capabilities of the creative cloud and grow robust digital literacy skills.”

Professor Osama Khan, deputy vice-chancellor academic at Aston University, added: “We welcome Professor Dodd in her new role at Aston University, where she will be instrumental in leading relevant research, scholarly and teaching activities in digital innovation using Adobe.

“Our partnership with Adobe is allowing students to experience a 21st century work environment and for the University to push forward joint activity with leading employers,

“The appointment of an Adobe professor of digital innovation will help us address one of our 2030 Strategy priorities, to prepare our students for work and life through contemporary learning experiences enriched with professional practice across all disciplines and courses.”

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