University College London appoints Professor and Head of Department of Security and Crime Science

Darrick Jolliffe appointed as Professor & Head of Department, UCL Department of Security & Crime Science.

UCL is one of the world's top universities. Based in the heart of London, it is a modern, outward-looking institution. At its establishment in 1826, UCL was radical and responsive to the needs of society, and this ethos – that excellence should go hand-in-hand with enriching society – continues today. UCL is proud of its longstanding commitment to equality and to providing a learning, working and social environment in which the rights and dignity of its diverse members are respected.

The Department of Security and Crime Science is one of ten academic Departments in the Faculty of Engineering Sciences. It is the first university department in the world devoted to reducing crime and other risks to personal and national security through the discipline of crime science. The department’s multidisciplinary research spans across the social and physical sciences and has a strong focus on working with policymakers and practitioners to create real world impact. Current research specialisms include crime reduction, spatial crime analysis, cybercrime, forensic science, policing, human trafficking & exploitation, terrorism & organised crime and future crime.  The department’s teaching programmes are based around the need to develop sophisticated analytical techniques and evidence-based strategies to understand, detect and counter crime and security vulnerabilities.  

Society was approached by UCL to assist with the search for their new Professor & Head of Department for the UCL Department of Security & Crime Science. We conducted a global search to identify suitable candidates with a track record of research excellence within the quantitative areas of crime science, a background in academic leadership, and significant external networks and connections with relevant agencies and government bodies.

We are delighted to announce that Darrick Jolliffe, previously Professor & Subject Head of Criminology at Royal Holloway, University of London, has been appointed to the role. Darrick brings 26 years of innovative research experience and academic leadership within the criminal science arena, with a particular focus on quantitative methodologies and scientific randomised control trials within domestic violence.

When asked for comment, Darrick shared:

“This is one of the most prestigious Departments in the world dedicated to the inter and trans-disciplinary study of security and crime. I am deeply honoured to be taking over as Head of Department, and I will focus all my efforts on maintaining the impressive trajectory established by the current and past leaders of The Department of Security and Crime Science. I really appreciate the support and encouragement I received from Society. From the moment they initially contacted me through the sifting and interview process they were available with great advice, positive and reassuring.”    

 Society wishes Darrick the very best in his new position!