May 2018 – July 2024
Professor Helen Nicholson worked as a doctor in hospital and community settings before taking up an academic position in the Department of Anatomy at Bristol University. She moved to the University of Otago in 2000 to become Professor of Anatomy and subsequently became head of the Department of Anatomy. In 2007 she was appointed Dean of the Otago School of Medical Sciences (now School of Biomedical Sciences) and in 2011 was the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Enterprise) for six months.
Helen was appointed as Pro-Vice-Chancellor (International) at University of Otago in February 2014 and inaugural Deputy Vice-Chancellor (External Engagement) in mid-2015. This role focusses on strengthening external engagement, raising the profile of the University of Otago and attracting high quality domestic and international students to study at Otago. Helen is also a member of the Ageing Well National Science Challenge Governance Group, the Confucius Institute Board, the Executive of the International Federation of Associations of Anatomists and an Associate Trustee of Men’s Health Trust New Zealand.