 Murray was elected by students on 16 February 2007 by a vote of 632 to 582, beating competition from former Scotland rugby captain and British and Irish Lions star Andy Nicol.The Rectorial Installation of Craig Murray took place on 26 September 2007 in the new Heathfield teaching building.In his Address, the new Rector discussed the structure of education in Scotland, creating a university environment better adapted to the needs of undergraduates and the status of ancient university government, including a commitment to campaign for the incorporation of the position of Rector at all universities in Scotland.