The division of Applied Communication has welcomed two new lecturers to the department.

Dr Johan Siebers has accepted a full-time post as a senior lecturer in communications theory and Chris Shaw a part-time post as a senior lecturer in public relations.

Chris, an alumnus of the university, left his job as a PR Manager for Riverside Housing Association in Liverpool to take on the role and Johan has just spent the last few years at Royal Dutch Shell working in scenario planning and external affairs.

Philosophy of communication

Johan, who is originally from the Netherlands, will lecture in research methods, communication theory and strategic communication, contribute to the further development of the divisionís research into communication and plans to introduce a new elective entitled ìPhilosophy of Communicationî which is a relatively new field.

He said: ìI want to show how necessary and fascinating the theory behind human communication is. It is important that students have theoretical knowledge as well as practical because it encourages independent thinking. Communication is at the heart of human existence and getting to understand it in depth is very rewarding – intellectually, personally and practically.î

Chris has a background in both public relations and journalism. He has worked for the Lawn Tennis Association, Manchester Airport, the Press Association and began his career at the Lancashire Evening Post.

Practical experience

He said: ìI will be teaching modules on broadcast and writing skills for public relations. I feel I can bring the practical experience I have gained throughout my career into my teaching.î

Both say they are looking forward to working at UCLan and taking on the new challenge.

Chris added: ìWorking in sectors that interest me such as sport or social fabric has always been important and I see this move into lecturing as an exciting opportunity.î

Johan, who holds a doctorate in Philosophy from Leiden, said: ìIím looking forward to working with students and developing a mutual understanding of communication in all of its aspects.î

Division Leader Julia Jahansoozi welcomed them to the university.

She said: ìWe’re really pleased that Chris and Johan have joined our team, they bring a wealth of experience, knowledge and expertise to our team and our students.”

More info
BA (Hons) Public Relations
MSc International Applied Communication
MA Strategic Communication
Division to host Spanish colleague on research sabbatical

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