A landmark photography project
Professor Dame Nancy Rothwell was the former President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Manchester, Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester and a research scientist in the field of neuroscience, contributing towards major advances in the understanding and treatment of brain damage in stroke and head injury.
Born in Preston in 1955, Dame Nancy obtained a first class degree in physiology at the University of London in 1976 and a Doctor of Philosophy degree three years later. She was later awarded a Doctor of Science degree in 1987 by King's College London.
From 2005, Dame Nancy was vice-president for research at the University of Manchester. In 2010 she was overseeing a research group of about 20 scientists, and was subsequently announced as President and Vice-Chancellor, becoming the first woman to lead the University of Manchester.
Dame Nancy Rothwell in her UoM office
Dame Nancy was elected Fellow of the Royal Society in June 2004 and made Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in June 2005 in recognition of her services to science.
Nancy takes a strong and active interest in public communication of science and regularly gives talks to schools and the public on sensitive issues in science.
Manchester’s tradition of world class research cements the city’s position as a world leader in science and technology - Dame Nancy Rothwell
Photography by Yasmin Carter
Dame Nancy left the University of Manchester in 2024 to take up the role of Chair of the Russell Group. The Russell Group represents 24 leading UK universities, based across every region and nation of the country.
THE SHOOT: University of Manchester
Dame Nancy's office and the Old Quadrangle
Student reflection: Yasmin Carter
"The opportunity to meet and photograph one of the most important and inspirational women of our current time was an absolute privilege. I photographed Dame Nancy in and around the Victorian splendour of the University’s John Owens Building and Old Quadrangle. She was a pleasure to work with, and was open to all my ideas and suggestions. Empathy is an important skill for a photographer to have in order to get the best out of their photographic subject. This shoot enabled me to practice this skill and hopefully made Dame Nancy feel relaxed throughout the shoot."
