Brian Williams

Originally from Lancaster, Professor Williams is currently head of health and social care sciences at Edinburgh Napier University. During his 30-year career, he has built up experience in education, research and management across seven UK higher education institutions.

Professor Williams has worked in both medical and nursing schools, and has supported education in medicine, nursing and the allied health professions. He also has a significant track record in research and is a former director of Scotland’s national research unit for nursing, midwifery and the allied health professions. His research interests include health behaviour change and complex service evaluations. He is passionate about developing research expertise at individual, group and organisational levels.

In addition, I have 12 years’ experience of leading two different joint university multidisciplinary research units: 5 years as Associate Director and 7 as Director. This includes Directorship of the Chief Scientist Office NMAHP Research Unit, where I oversaw a significant expansion. Although I maintain an international profile for my personal research in behavioural science and research methods my key focus and national & international reputation is on development of research expertise at the individual, group and organizational level – especially in the area of nurses, midwives and allied health professionals (see below). This includes levering and facilitating national policy, and working across HEIs; both Units I have directed have been joint enterprises between two universities.