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Open Science Pioneer Paul Ayris Dies at 68
6 Feb
Summary
- Influential library leader and open science advocate Paul Ayris passed away.
- He founded UCL Press, the UK's first fully open-access university press.
- Ayris played a key role in shaping Europe's open science approach.
Paul Ayris, a visionary university library leader and champion of open science, passed away at the age of 68 due to cardiac failure. His career, beginning at Cambridge University Library in 1978, saw him lead significant advancements in library automation and web technologies.
Moving to University College London (UCL) in 1997, Ayris became director of library services and later pro-vice-provost. He spearheaded modernization efforts, including the creation of innovative learning spaces and the establishment of UCL Press in 2015. This marked the UK's first fully open-access university press, now boasting a global reach with millions of downloads.
Ayris also made substantial contributions internationally. As president of LIBER and through LERU, he was instrumental in defining Europe's strategy for open science. His influence extended to China, where he participated in discussions on open science development for the benefit of the global south.
Born in Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, Ayris pursued theological studies and a PhD at Cambridge. His academic interests included Reformation history, culminating in the posthumous publication in January 2026 of "Thomas Cranmer's Register." He was recognized as a fellow of the Royal Historical Society in 2019.
