It’s a mark of the inclusiveness of RGU that people from every level and area of the university’s work are prepared to tell us a bit more about themselves in our 60 second interview spot. Today, it’s our new VP for Research, who, amongst other things reveals his passion for gardening, classical music and custard!
Name: Nick Fyfe
Job Title: Vice Principal for Research
What does your job at RGU involve?:
I have responsibility for research activity and supporting the research community across the University, line-manage a group of Schools, and am a member of the University Executive.
What attracted you to come to work at RGU?
RGU is committed to making a difference in the world, has a strong set of values, and a real sense of community among its staff and students – these are great attributes all of which attracted me to work at RGU.
If you weren’t doing this job, what, in an ideal world, would you like to do for a living? I am passionate about gardening so would love to have responsibility for a garden somewhere sunny and warm.
What’s your favourite place in Aberdeen/Aberdeenshire?
Because of lockdown I have been unable to spend anytime up in Aberdeen but I know from past visits it would be the wonderful coastline and beaches
Best holiday you’ve had and why?
A few years ago our family hired a canal boat and we pottered about for a week, travelling at no more than 4 mph , stopping off at wonderful canal side pubs and restaurants, watching wildlife, and reading books (there was no wi-fi) and it was just so relaxing. Highly recommended!
Favourite TV show?
Any Scandi-noir detective series and, of course, Line of Duty.
Favourite band/music?
Much to the embarrassment of my children, my knowledge of contemporary music is almost non-existent; I’m much more into classical stuff.
If you’re going to a restaurant and could only have one thing to eat (one course), what would it be?
Would have to be a pudding and preferably involving lots of custard.
If you were in charge of the university for one day, what’s the first thing you would do?
I have only been at RGU for 3 weeks and apart from one day in December have not spent any time on campus, so this is not an easy question to answer so let me say anything that would help us reduce our carbon footprint and get us closer to net zero.