A world-leading computer games expert has been appointed as Visiting Professor at the University of Ulster. 

Ernest Adams, internationally renowned games consultant and veteran of the industry, will join the School of Computing and Intelligent Systems at Magee. 

Professor Adams has over 17 years’ hands-on experience working for industry leaders such as THQ, Ubisoft, Elixir Studios and Electronic Arts.  

He will deliver a number of workshops on games design and development from the perspective of integrated systems to students on the computer games development and multimedia computer games degree courses at Magee. 

The University launched the two new computer gaming courses in September 2005 in response to the growing demand for skilled professionals in this multi-billion pound industry. 

Professor Martin McGinnity, Director of the Intelligent Systems Research Centre, Faculty of Engineering, said: “I am delighted that we have been successful in appointing someone of Ernest’s calibre and experience as a Visiting Professor to the School of Computing and Intelligent System.  

“He will make a significant contribution to the School over the next three years and will bring insight and experience to our students in terms of real commercial aspects of computer games development. 

“These workshops will provide our students with an opportunity to gain an insight into this exciting, and dynamic multi-billion pound industry and benefit from Ernest’s vast experience.  

“By gaining an appreciation of the technical challenges involved in the design of highly sophisticated integrated systems such as computer games, students are developing a range of skills which will greatly increase their employment opportunities within the sector.” 

The first week of workshops kicks off this week at the Magee campus. Participants will cover a range of topics including: an overview of the interactive entertainment industry, fundamentals of game design, balancing game mechanics and principles of character design. 

A second workshop is scheduled to run just before Easter with two further workshops planned for 2008 and 2009.  

Funding for the post will come from the prestigious Royal Academy of Engineering under its Integrated System Design scheme.   For further information regarding these events contact: Dr. Shane Wilson: s.wilson@ulster.ac.uk.    

For further information, please contact:

Trina Porter
Telephone: 028 71675511
Email: Trina Porter