Professor Peter Lynn takes over as ISER Director today (Thursday 1st October 2020) from Professor Emily Grundy, who will be continuing as Research Professor with the Institute.
Professor Lynn is a world-renowned survey methodologist, Fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences and ex-President of the International Association of Survey Statisticians. He has served as a consultant to bodies ranging from the Office for National Statistics to the European Central Bank. As Associate Director for Survey Methods for Understanding Society he has led ground-breaking new research that has influenced the design of many major surveys around the world. His research interests encompass all aspects of survey methodology, with a particular focus on methods for longitudinal surveys.
Vice Chancellor of the University of Essex, Professor Anthony Forster, said: “I am absolutely delighted to welcome Professor Peter Lynn as the next Director of ISER. The world-renowned social science research taking place at ISER, one of Essex’s flagship research institutes, was recognised by a Queen’s Anniversary Prize and continues to have a major impact on government policy both in the UK and beyond. Professor Lynn takes over at a crucial moment for authoritative data-driven research evidence. ISER’s work will be incredibly important in the development of effective policy-making in a world forever changed by Covid-19.”
Professor Lynn said, “I am honoured to have been entrusted with responsibility for one of the world’s leading multi-disciplinary social science research institutes. I look forward to helping ISER to achieve even greater successes in the future.”
Professore Emily Grundy said; ‘’I have reached the end of my term as Director of ISER, although I will be staying on in the Institute and am looking forward to having more time for research. I am very grateful to all those who have helped and supported me over the past three years. I am delighted to be handing over to Professor Peter Lynn who is ISER’s longest-serving Professor and admirably equipped to take on the Directorship.’’