The past year has been one of pioneering research, first class teaching and success in the economic, social and cultural mission of the University. We have concluded our merger with the Dundee Campus of Northern College and our new Faculty of Education and Social Work is developing as an integral part of the University. We have continued to develop our partnership with St Andrews and our first joint degree is in place. We have committed to long-term investment and development of our research and teaching infrastructure through the landmark campus strategy.

We have achieved first class results in the past 12 months. 2001 ended on a high with the Research Assessment Exercise confirming that 95 per cent of our researchers now work in departments considered to be of national and international excellence. And with 25 per cent of researchers receiving the very highest accolade - a 5* rating in the Assessment Exercise the future of research at the University has never looked stronger.

Our achievements in biomedical science rate special mention. In combating many of the world's most prevalent diseases we have pioneered new and exciting tactics. Whether we are mathematically modelling cancer, tackling tooth decay, diagnosing Alzheimer's disease, reducing cardiovascular disease, developing a Centre for Health Informatics, understanding the nervous system, developing treatments for diabetes or combating cancer, the University of Dundee remains at the fore of international research. Three of the UK's top fifteen scientists are now based here in Dundee and we continue to develop real strength in depth through the appointment of bright young investigators.

But of course, this is only a part of the story. Our teaching has maintained and advanced the highest standards and quality - not least in Computing and Anatomy and Physiology, History, Geography and English.

The University now provides an unequalled range of graduate and postgraduate courses in Law and Accountancy, Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Education and Social Work, Art and Design, Arts and Social Sciences and Science and Engineering. We are fully committed to widening access to higher education and our Summer Schools and ASPIRE programmes continue to grow and develop. The past year has been a good one and I look forward to the future with confidence and enthusiasm.

Alan Langlands
Principal and Vice Chancellor

Spring Term