The position is rarely known by its full title and most often referred to simply as "Rector".
The rector is elected by students of the university and serves a three-year term.
The newer University of Dundee has a rector due to its historical ties to St Andrews.
He or she maintains a permanent seat in the University Court during the period of their duty.
Further roles and responsibilities include being a 'focal point' for the student body to interact with the decision making levels of university governance, and coordinating the on-campus and online presence for the Rector.