David Mba

Professor David Mba is the Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham City University (BCU), appointed in October 2023. He leads strategic vision development and oversees the University’s 2030 Strategy. Previously, he served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University of the Arts London and Pro Vice-Chancellor at De Montfort University, holding roles including Dean of Engineering and Faculty Pro Vice-Chancellor. Educated at Cranfield University, he holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, awarded the Lord King Norton Gold Medal for his doctoral thesis. His research focuses on mechanical systems, fault detection, and predictive maintenance, with over 300 publications. He chairs the Birmingham Cultural Compact and co-chairs the Black Leaders in HE network, while serving as a Royal Academy of Engineering Fellow and Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

His research interests span mechanical engineering, predictive maintenance, and acoustic-based diagnostics, with a focus on gearbox dynamics, bearing fault prognosis, and vibration analysis. Collaborations include commercial, EU, and EPSRC-funded projects. He actively contributes to industry-relevant technologies, such as acoustic metamaterials for signal enhancement and condition monitoring frameworks for rotating machinery.

Awards include prestigious academic honors and leadership roles in higher education networks. His work bridges academia and industry, emphasizing practical solutions for mechanical system reliability and safety.