26 April 2011

Social sciences professors named Academicians

Two University academics have been given the award of Academician by The Academy of Social Sciences (AcSS).

Professor Paul White, from the Department of Geography (and Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Learning and Teaching) and Professor Paschal Sheeran, from the Department of Psychology, both received the awards which recognise the significant contribution they have made to their disciplines and to the wider promotion of social sciences.

Professor Paul White came to Sheffield in 1974 having graduated from Oxford University. In 2004 he became the Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Learning and Teaching. This is now his main role within the University although he still finds time to teach. Paul is also co-chair of the Higher Education Academy’s Pro-Vice-Chancellor Network, a position he has held since 2009.

Speaking of his award Professor White said: "I am delighted to have been awarded Academician status. My research on European urban issues has drawn from a number of social science disciplines, all of which are of great strength at Sheffield. The growing number of Academicians at Sheffield, and the recent award of Doctoral Training status from the Economic and Social Research Council for studentships with Leeds and York, recognises Sheffield’s reputation for important areas of research on the major issues of contemporary society, and for the education of our students."

Professor Sheeran is a graduate of University College Dublin and the University of Sheffield. His research interests are in the area of social and health psychology, and in particular how conscious and unconscious processes combine to direct people’s thoughts, feelings, and actions.

Speaking of his award Professor Sheeran said: "I have been fortunate to have had the opportunity to collaborate with many talented social scientists at Sheffield. It is an honour and a pleasure to become an Academician."

The AcSS is the research body tasked with promoting social sciences in the UK for the benefit of the general public. It works with the Government and the public to raise awareness of social science and enhance its value to society. It is composed of over 450 Academicians and 32 Learned Societies such as the Regional Studies Association, the Royal Town Planning Institute and the Royal Geographical Society. More than 60 academics have been conferred the award this year, from institutions throughout the UK and Ireland.