Alan Smithers

Professor Alan Smithers is the Director of the Centre for Education and Employment Research (CEER) at the University of Buckingham. Previously, he held distinguished roles as Sydney Jones Professor of Education at the University of Liverpool (1998–2004), Professor of Policy Research at Brunel University (1996–1998), and Professor of Education at the University of Manchester (1976–1996). His career began as a lecturer in biological sciences at London University before transitioning to education research.

His research focuses on pupil/student exam performance, teacher training and retention, gender differences in education, independent and vocational schooling, and international educational comparisons. He has authored over 100 refereed papers, four books, 81 research reports, and 45 confidential policy briefs.

Professor Smithers has advised national committees such as the National Curriculum Council and the House of Commons Education Committee (1997–2015). The CEER frequently provides expert commentary to media on contemporary education and employment issues.

His academic qualifications include B.Sc., Ph.D., M.Sc., Ph.D., M.Ed., and Chartered Psychologist (CPsychol.) certifications.