Professor Daniel Alexander appointed new Head of UCL Computer Science

UCL Computer Science is delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Daniel Alexander, known as Danny, as the new Head of Department, starting 1 September 2024. Professor Alexander succeeds Professor Steve Hailes, who served as Head of Department from 2019. 

Professor Alexander brings extensive expertise in computer science, computational modelling, machine learning and imaging science to his new role. Before this appointment, he was the Director of the UCL Centre for Medical Image Computing (CMIC) since 2015, and Deputy Head of UCL Computer Science since 2018.  

He has initiated multiple research areas and groups including the Microstructure Imaging Group and the Progression of Neurodegenerative Diseases initiative. He has a strong focus on translating innovations in computer science to application and impact, for example through his work as the theme lead for the UCLH Biomedical Research Centre Healthcare Engineering and Imaging theme. 

Earlier this year, Professor Alexander was named a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) for his pioneering work in brain imaging technologies. This follows his election as a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering in 2022, recognising his outstanding contributions to engineering and innovation. 

Professor Alexander’s vision for the department focuses on embracing the multidisciplinary and diversity of UCL and establishing the structures that enable the department to grow with the future of computer science.   

Professor Alexander said: 

“I am hugely excited to become the Head of UCL Computer Science. UCL’s size and breadth make it a unique place to study and do research. Almost all areas of academic endeavour use computer science these days. The breadth of application constantly challenges the current state of the art, driving forward the foundations of computer science itself. A key ambition of my tenure is to enable and harness positive interaction between foundational advances in computer science and the wealth of applications in our institution.” 

Interim Dean of Engineering Sciences, Professor Andy Nisbet, said:

“I’d like to thank Professor Hailes for his outstanding leadership of the Department of Computer Science over the last five years. I look forward to working with Professor Alexander as the new Head and seeing his vision for the department come to fruition.”

Professor Alexander’s appointment marks a new chapter for UCL Computer Science as it continues to strengthen its reputation for world-leading research, teaching and innovation.