Five Hall academics awarded Professorships

Congratulations to three Governing Body Fellows and two members of the Senior Common Room for being awarded Professorships at the University of Oxford in the most recent Recognition of Distinction Exercise 2026. This is in recognition of their academic distinction.

Professor Amy Zavatsky has been conferred the title Professor of Engineering Science, Professor Michael Gill is Professor of Organisations, Alex Kohlhas is Professor of Macroeconomics, David McCartney is Professor of Practice in Medical Education and Sue Pavord is awarded the title of Professor of Practice in Haematology. We asked them for comment on this prestigious achievement.

“Being recognised and appointed Professor is a real honour. It’s particularly meaningful because so much of my work is shaped by our students, and I’m grateful to the College for the environment and support that enables them—and all of us—to develop.” – Michael Gill

“Being awarded a professorship means a great deal to me. Recognition of one’s work is always motivating, but perhaps especially so at a time when the role that academics and universities will play in the future is becoming less certain. For me, this promotion is both an affirmation of the work I have done so far and an encouragement to continue contributing.” – Alex Kolhas

“I was absolutely delighted to be awarded the title of Professor in this year’s Recognition of Distinction exercise. Medical education has been central to my career –  and being part of the college community at St Edmund Hall through which I have worked with such talented students and colleagues has been a huge part of that, which I very much look forward to continuing.” – David McCartney

“I am honoured to have been awarded the title of Professor of Practice in Medical Haematology by the University of Oxford. Medical haematology is a highly integrated speciality that is fundamental to management in a wide range of medical, surgical and obstetric settings. This recognition is particularly meaningful as it acknowledges the vital interplay between scientific research and clinical practice, ensuring that clinical experience informs research priorities and that scientific discoveries are translated into better treatments and improved outcomes.” –  Sue Pavord