Proud Moment for Pioneering Scientist

A Pioneering computer scientist and long-serving member of Swansea University’s senior management team has been awarded an honorary fellowship.

Professor Peter Townsend played an instrumental part in the growth and development of the university during a career spanning more than 40 years.

Born and raised in Carmarthenshire, Professor Townsend received his award during the degree ceremony for the School of Engineering, Institute of Advanced Telecommunications, and the Department of Chemistry.

During a distinguished career, Professor Townsend was, in 1978, working as senior scientist at the Christian Michelsen Research Institute in Norway, investigating simulations of gas explosions on North Sea oil rigs.

He became a vice-principal with responsibility for research at Swansea University in 1992, and served as pro-vice-chancellor (administration) and registrar between 1996 and 2007.

A chartered engineer and member of the British Computer Science Society, Professor Townsend played a leading role in designing a project which attracted pounds7 million funding for a programme of administrative sub- projects to collaborate with Trinity College, Carmarthen, and Swansea Metropolitan University.

After receiving the award, Professor Townsend, who retired in 2007, said: “I’m honoured and pleased to have received this honorary fellowship, and to be maintaining my contact with the university.

“I was also delighted to have my family present to witness this special occasion.”

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