The vice principal of SRUC, Professor Geoff Simm, is leaving his post later this year to head up a new Global Academy of Agriculture and Food Security at the University of Edinburgh.
The new academy will be based at the university’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and draw on expertise from the schools of medicine, biological sciences, geosciences and informatics.
It sets out to provide a hub for teaching and research into issues that affect global food and environmental security, sustainable rural development, and the wellbeing of animals and people.
Prof Simm will take on the role of assistant principal and director of the global academy on October 1.
“I look forward to leading the new Global Academy to be a catalyst for these contributions in future, delivering excellent science in global agriculture and food security, promoting translation into practice through education of future leaders, and through collaborative research and knowledge exchange,” he said. Prof Simm’s post at SRUC will be covered by incoming principal, Prof Wayne Powell, until a replacement has been found.
The rural college’s acting principal and chief executive, Janet Swadling, said: “Geoff Simm has served the East of Scotland Agricultural College, then the Scottish Agricultural College and now SRUC with distinction.
“As a researcher in animal genetics and most recently as vice principal of research he has helped enhance SRUC’s profile at the forefront of the development of new agricultural production systems.
The global focus of his new role fits well with the international work he has supported and encouraged here at SRUC.”
