RCA announces President and Vice-Chancellor

Royal College of Art (RCA) has named CHRISTOPH LINDNER President and Vice-Chancellor. 

Succeeding Dr PAUL THOMPSON, Lindner joins in April 2024 from Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment at University College London (UCL), where he is also a Professor of Urban Studies.

He has over 20 years of experience at universities in the United States, Europe and the UK. Before joining UCL, Lindner was Dean of the College of Design at the University of Oregon and Professor of Media and Culture at the University of Amsterdam. 

RCA Pro-Chancellor Sir PETER BAZALGETTE said Lindner's role is "one of the most exciting in the creative sector". 

"Professor Lindner stood out to us because of his international standing, his breadth of experience across art, architecture and design and his understanding of interdisciplinary teaching and research.

"Importantly, his empathetic leadership, commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, and his championing of the student experience reflect what we know our staff and students also want from a leader."

Lindner added: "I am deeply honoured to be joining the RCA and excited about working with students, staff, and the whole community, including alumni and supporters, on realising their ambitions.

"As a global leader in art and design, the RCA is uniquely positioned to mobilise the transformative power of creativity and interdisciplinary practice to address society’s most pressing challenges.”