Meet the candidates for Rector

The race to become the next Rector of the University of St Andrews is officially under way, with six candidates confirmed.

Students will have the opportunity to choose who they would like to represent them as President of the University Court for the next three years. The role involves championing student voices and helping shape discussions at the highest level of University governance.

The candidates standing for election are:

• Brian Baumgartner
• Dr Arthur Bernhoff
• Mark Brunner
• Dr Q Mannivannan
• Dr Conor Philip
• Edison Yau

Those standing are actor Brian Baumgartner, best known to many for playing Kevin Malone in the US version of The Office; St Andrews alumnus and international affairs specialist Dr Arthur Bernhoff; business leader and guest lecturer Mark Brunner; Scottish Parliament member and alumnus Dr Q Mannivannan; recently graduated doctor Dr Conor Philip; and fellow medicine graduate Dr Edison Yau.

Students can now read candidate statements and find out more about each nominee on the Rectorial Election webpages.

Voting will take place online from 9am on Thursday 15 October until 5pm on Friday 16 October 2026. All students who were matriculated when nominations closed on Wednesday 7 October will be eligible to vote and will receive an invitation to take part.

The result of the election is due to be announced on Friday 16 October.