Ulster University has appointed two new external members to Council, Heather Gelles-Ebner and Professor Catherine Ross.
These new members will bring specific skills and expertise to the University’s governing body and the work of its core committees, and they have been appointed following a recent recruitment exercise.
The Ulster University Council is responsible for the governance oversight of the institution’s activities, determining its future direction and fostering an environment in which institutional priorities are realised.
Heather Gelles-Ebner
Heather brings over 25 years of extensive experience in the higher education sector, with a career spanning both the UK and the US and leadership roles at some of the world’s Top 10 universities. A graduate of Vassar College in New York, Heather began her professional journey in financial services and she transitioned to Higher Education in 2000, where she has developed expertise in strategic philanthropy, alumni engagement and institutional communications. Heather spent 14 years at the University of Oxford and currently serves as Director of Strategic Philanthropy at University College London, where she has led major philanthropic initiatives and strengthened donor relations at the highest level.
As she transitions to a freelance consultancy role in mid-2025, Heather brings with her deep sector knowledge and also, a strong commitment to regional impact. Her move to Northern Ireland marks a meaningful shift towards contributing locally and she is particularly eager to support Ulster University and its surrounding communities.
Professor Catherine Ross CSci, CBiol, FRSB, FAHCS (Hon.), FESC, FRCPath (Hon.), FTPS (Hon.)
Professor Catherine Ross is a distinguished Clinical Scientist who currently holds the role of Chief Scientific Officer for Scotland, the Scottish Government’s most senior clinical advisor on health science professional issues, and Head of Profession for the NHS Scotland scientific workforce. She is a Chartered Scientist, Chartered Biologist and Fellow of several leading scientific organisations including the Royal Society of Biology and the European Society of Cardiology. Professor Ross’s exceptional contributions to healthcare science have been recognised through multiple honorary fellowships, including from the Royal College of Pathologists, the Academy for Healthcare Science and The Physiological Society.
In addition to holding visiting and honorary academic appointments at Edinburgh Napier University, Manchester Metropolitan University, Ulster University and Honorary Research Consultant in NHS Lothian, Catherine also serves as a non-executive director of the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.
As a new University Council member, Catherine brings a wealth of experience in senior leadership, strategic policy development and academic engagement. Her governance expertise - evident in roles such as President of the Science Council, former President of the Professional Body for Cardiac Scientists and board memberships within the European Society of Cardiology, among others - equips her to contribute meaningfully to the decision-making and future direction of the University.
Dr Jenny Pyper, Chair of Council, welcomed the appointment of the two new members, stating:
“On behalf of the University Council, I would like to welcome the new external members, Heather Gelles-Ebner and Professor Catherine Ross to Council. These appointments add significant strength and a fresh perspective to the governing body at a pivotal time for Ulster University, and both new members bring a wealth of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to Council.
“We look forward to their contributions as we work together to provide strategic leadership, uphold strong governance and guide the University’s long-term direction.”
Professor Paul Bartholomew, Vice-Chancellor, also welcomed the new Council members:
“I am pleased to welcome both Heather and Catherine as new Council members, who are both extremely well-placed to support the University’s People, Place and Partnership strategy and contribute to its continued long-term strategic growth.
“Their strategic insight and strong track record in leadership, policy and engagement will be instrumental in shaping our development priorities, and we look forward to working together on advancing the University’s mission, strengthening governance and fostering meaningful collaborations that extend our impact locally and globally.”
Find out more:
Details of the Council and profiles of all Council members, is available at www.ulster.ac.uk/aboutus/governance/secretariat/council.
Photo caption:
Photographed (top) are the two new University Council members (from left to right): Professor Catherine Ross and Heather Gelles-Ebner.
