University appoints its first Adobe professor of digital innovation

Aston University, in collaboration with computer software giant Adobe, has established a new professorial role.

Professor Rachel Dodd (pictured) has been recruited to the new position of Adobe professor of digital innovation, the first role of its kind globally.

The University is the first Adobe Creative Campus in the Midlands, which means it will provide access to software and embed training and support to enhance teaching, learning and professional services.

This will help ensure graduates are among the best-prepared for careers in the modern global workplace.

Students will gain industry standard digital skills which will build a strong bridge to the professional world based on the skills future employers will want.

Every student has ethical, equal and safe access to generative AI tools with multi-modal formats, assets and media types powered by Adobe’s industry leading tools, designed to be simple and easy to use on websites and mobile devices.

Professor Dodd will lead the adoption of Adobe digital tools across the curriculum which will support the University’s 2030 strategy goals of enhanced student experience, employability and growth.

She will also drive activity within Adobe Creative Campus Aston Hub, which is hosted by Design Factory Birmingham, a centre which was designed to boost innovation and design in the West Midlands.

Professor Aleks Subic, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Aston University, said: “Based in the heart of the Birmingham Innovation Quarter, Aston University is focused on technology innovation and extending the reach of digital technologies.

“Professor Dodd’s new position is jointly sponsored by global digital leader Adobe as part of our strategic partnership in establishing Aston University as the Adobe Creative Campus for the West Midlands.

“Rachel will play a critical role in transforming our teaching and learning through digital innovation.

“Her role will help ensure that every student and staff member will be able to exploit the capabilities of the creative cloud and grow robust digital literacy skills.”

Professor Dodd joins from Teesside University, the UK’s first Adobe Creative Campus, and brings a wealth of experience in learning and teaching, programme development, marketing and recruitment.

She is an Advance HE Fellow and has extensive industry experience in media, IT services, telecommunications and education. Her notable achievements include leading RiverShack CIC, a not-for-profit community interest company, and receiving a mayoral civic award in 2023. Her contributions were featured this year in the “People Powered” exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery.

She said: “It’s an understatement to say I’m delighted to have joined Aston University. I’m eager to leverage my experience to ensure our partnership with Adobe empowers the entire Aston University community with industry-leading digital tools.

“The Adobe Creative Campus will embed workplace-ready digital technologies, across all disciplines, providing our students and staff with vital skills for success in work and life.”