Camilla is new chancellor of Aberdeen University

The Duchess of Cornwall has been installed as chancellor of Aberdeen University, following a ceremony at the university today.

The Duchess of Cornwall took up her new role as Chancellor at Aberdeen University. Pictures: PA

The Duchess was elected by the university’s graduate body, the General Council, in February.

The role comprises ceremonial duties including awarding degrees to graduates at the end of each year.

Camilla, known as the Duchess of Rothesay in Scotland, succeeds Lord Wilson of Tillyorn, who stepped down at the end of December having served as chancellor since 1997.

She will be the university’s 11th chancellor in the role which dates back to 1860.

Interest

Aberdeen University was founded in 1495, making its Scotland’s third oldest university and the fifth oldest in the UK.

In 2007 the Duchess opened the university’s health sciences building at Foresterhill, where researchers work with the European Union, United Nations and the World Health Organisation.

Today’s installation ceremony will take place in Elphinstone Hall before an audience of university alumni, staff, students and dignitaries.

Professor Sir Ian Diamond, principal and vice-chancellor of the university, said: “We have very much enjoyed the Duchess’s visits to our campuses and the huge enthusiasm and interest she has shown in meeting our students and staff, and hearing about their work and achievements.

“I look forward to formally welcoming Her Royal Highness to the university team.”