Prof. Francis Petersen

Vice Chancellor & Principal University of Pretoria

Professor Francis Petersen is the Vice Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria, responsible for leading the management and administration of the institution. He brings a distinguished record of academic leadership and wide-ranging experience in higher education, engineering and industry. Prof Petersen holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Engineering in Metallurgical Engineering from the University of Stellenbosch, as well as a PhD in Engineering. He has also completed specialised training in financial skills for executive management.His academic career spans several South African universities, including Stellenbosch University, the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, the University of Cape Town and the University of the Free State. He has served in senior leadership roles such as Head of Department, Dean and Deputy Vice Chancellor, reflecting his extensive experience in academic management at departmental, faculty and institutional levels. In addition to his academic accomplishments, Prof Petersen has made significant contributions to industry and national research organisations. His leadership roles at Anglo American Platinum, Mintek and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research have strengthened innovation and supported research and development in mining, minerals and environmental engineering. He also contributes to the advancement of the national higher education sector through his role as Chair of Universities South Africa.