Lindsay MacDonald, 53
Principal Lecturer/Research Director
Job advertised in The Times Higher , May 30, 2003
A research squeeze at Derby University was behind Lindsay MacDonald's decision to try the London Institute. "I had been external examiner at the London College of Printing for about five years, so I knew the people and the place," he says.
Three candidates were shortlisted for the vacancy created through retirement. MacDonald reckons his record in bringing in research projects helped him secure the job.
John Stephens, dean of printing and publishing, agrees: "The post really focuses on developing research in the school in materials technology, digital colour imaging, publishing and graphic arts."
MacDonald had a strong research profile and experience in developing industry links. He had secured European Commission funding for a huge digital cultural heritage project, which he had hoped to transfer with him.
Unfortunately, the EC disagreed and he is still managing the project at Derby until it concludes in August. "I hope the equipment and results can be transferred here for further exploitation."
MacDonald is a fifth generation Australian who came to England in 1976 on a cricket tour. "Somehow I never returned. I worked as a research and development engineer in the graphic arts industry before going into academia."
He lives in the Peak District and commutes by train. "It is four hours door to door. I'm down south Monday to Thursday, but my wife is not happy about it so we are looking to move.
"Everyone's been very welcoming. The college is one of five in the institute, so there's lots of scope for research."