Angela Cassidy

Assistant Professor

Joining the school of Textiles and Design in 2013, I soon became the Discipline Co-ordinator for the knit department, which facilitates students on the Design for Textiles programme as well Fashion, Postgraduate and Research students.

The school is renowned for its advanced facilities and technological textile research and my aim is to cultivate a globally recognised knit design department, renowned for technical skill, material knowledge, industrial relevance and creative endeavour.

In my  time at Heriot-Watt University, I have orchestrated student projects with industry partners such as Johnstons of Elgin, Todd & Duncan and Dhu Performance cashmere whilst expanding my own academic and leadership skills – studying at Postgraduate level in Academic practice and participating in the Aurora Leadership Program for Women in Higher Education.

Background

Before returning to Scotland to take up this role, I ran an award winning knitwear label and worked as a consultant in knitwear design and production for various designers and manufacturers, in conjunction with lecturing at various institutions.

I continue to work in the knitwear industry and actively keep informed of new and innovative knitted textiles, knitwear design, and production methods – attending New Designers, Pitti Filati, and London Fashion Week events. I am also a regular panel member of the Texprint organisation, contributing to the selection and mentoring of top textile graduates in the UK.