Mary McAleese to take new post in UK university

Mary McAleese

Nicola Anderson

Former President Mary McAleese has been appointed Distinguished Professor in Irish Studies at the UK's oldest Catholic university.

She will lecture students of the Masters programme in Irish Studies at St Mary's University in Twickenham, London, focusing in particular on its 'New Perspectives on Irish History' course.

Her new role comes as the leading Catholic university prepares to celebrate its 165th anniversary.

Dr McAleese said she was looking forward to working closely with "the excellent team" at its Centre for Irish Studies as it researches the continuing development of Anglo-Irish relations.

Vice-Chancellor of St Mary's Francis Campbell said that it was "a huge honour" for the university.

He added that Dr McAleese's rich experience and direct engagement with students would inspire them.