The Courier & Advertiser (Fife Edition)
‘Passionate’ principal to leave Dundee University on a high
Sir Pete Downes to step down this year
The principal who has overseen one of the most successful eras in Dundee University’s half century is to step down at the end of the year.
Professor Sir Pete Downes, who has led the institution as principal and vicechancellor since 2009, will retire from his position at Christmas.
One of the world’s foremost biochemists, Prof Downes has spent more than a quarter of a century with Dundee University, last year receiving a long-service medal.
His decision to step down coincides with his turning 65, with Sir Pete saying the timing felt “natural”.
The university court will now be tasked with choosing Prof Downes’ successor, alongside their current search for a new chancellor following the retirement of Lord Naren Patel last year.
Lord Provost Ian Borthwick, who sits on the university court, said Prof Downes was passionate about the city and its university.
He said: “He has led Dundee University through many changes and he has always held the institution with such high esteem.”
Since becoming principal, Sir Pete has overseen the institution repeatedly earning the title of Scottish University of the Year, as well as its continuing evolution into a bastion of life science research.
Prof Downes said: “It has been a tremendous honour and a privilege to lead this great institution for what will have been almost 10 years at the time I step down.
“I have been here long enough to have received a long-service award last year. I wear my silver badge, denoting 25 plus years of service, with pride, along with the many staff who have shared the journey.
“Later this year I will turn 65 and this seems a natural time to consider the next stage of my life.”