Professor Jean McEwan, Vice Dean Education for the Medical School

New Vice Dean Education for Medical School

The University of Exeter Medical School is delighted to welcome a new senior member of staff to preside over medical education. Professor Jean McEwan starts as Vice Dean Education on April 1, and will be a key figure in helping the Medical School achieve its projected growth, while maintaining the high standard of education across its programmes, which include BMBS Medicine, BSc Medical Science, and Medical Imaging, which is soon to transfer to the Medical School, and an expanding portfolio of postgraduate programmes. 

Professor McEwan is a Consultant Cardiologist, and joins the Medical School from University College London (UCL), where she was Deputy Director of the Division of Medicine and Director of Undergraduate Medical Education at University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.  She has a background in innovative research in vascular disease including gene and photodynamic therapy and is committed to research-led medical and scientific education.

Professor McEwan said: “Moving to the University of Exeter is the highlight of my career. I am impressed by the energy and enthusiasm of my new colleagues, the potential of our students and the vision of this great University. I look forward to being able to realise the opportunities being afforded us in leading the development of a new medical and scientific workforce with an international reputation.”

Professor Steve Thornton, Dean of the University of Exeter Medical School, said: “I’m really excited to have Jean on board. She has a modern approach to education delivery, and brings a wealth of experience in developing medical education to Exeter. As we enter a period of expansion, it is crucial that we have the right senior team in place to continue to build on excellent reputation. Jean has the experience, passion and drive to do just that.”

Professor McEwan is currently in a handover period from Professor Ed Peile, who has been Acting Vice Dean Education since October. Professor Thornton said: “I’d like to thank Ed for his hard work and dedication during his time at Exeter. He has been a fantastic asset, and has made a tangible difference to some of our most important developments, particularly the expansion of our BSc Medical Sciences and the ongoing General Medical Council accreditation process.” 

Date: 1 April 2014