Ms Lorna Barnes (she/her)

As Head of Research Strategy, Lorna provides strategic coordination and development of institution-wide research planning and initiatives. She leads on high-impact strategic projects and champions equality, diversity, inclusion (EDI), and positive research culture, fostering inclusive and supportive environments for researchers.

Lorna has been part of the University of Exeter community for six years, following a dynamic career in arts and culture. Her background as a producer spans film, television, theatre, and contemporary dance, as well as key roles in arts institutions such as Shakespeare's Globe, the Ministry of Stories, the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, RADA, and Trinity Laban.

In 2013, she founded a creative literacy charity and later served as Chair of Arts Bridge Culture (ABC), a Tottenham-based charity dedicated to widening participation in the arts for children and young people from underrepresented backgrounds. Lorna is a member of the University of Exeter's Disability Network, and is a Speak Out Guardian. 

Since joining the University of Exeter in 2018, Lorna has worked across research and education. Her roles have included Head of Degree Apprenticeships, public engagement lead at the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, and positions focused on research policy and strategy.