New international role for Hutton root scientist

The James Hutton Institute is delighted to announce that Dr Tim George, the Deputy Director of the International Barley Hub, has been appointed President of the International Society of Root Research (ISRR) in recognition of his expertise and global reputation in soil and root science for the Hutton.

The six-year role, which was confirmed earlier this month at the ISRR’s AGM; sees Tim as president of this 1000+ strong worldwide membership organisation from the root research community. It followed a process of peer nomination and voting by the ISRR’s international committee.

Tim has been working for around 25 years as a plant physiologist and soil scientist specialising in the dynamics of nutrients in the rhizosphere – the zone of chemical, biological, and physical influence generated by root growth. He also has a distinguished track record in leading teams of scientists in projects funded by the European Union and UK Research and Innovation and is a board member of the European Plant Sciences Organisation (EPSO).

Speaking on this new role Tim said. “I’m really pleased to have been made President of the International Society of Root Research and hope to raise the profile of this hidden half of plants. Clarifying the root’s role in solving some of the world’s most pressing problems such as climate change mitigation and adaptation is extremely important, and I look forward to spreading the news about the great research being carried out by some of world’s root scientists in this critical area of research which has ramifications for global food security and environmental sustainability”.

More information:

The International Barley Hub (IBH), along with Advanced Plant Growth Centre, are part of the £62m investment from the Tay Cities Regional Deal Partnership with investment from the UK and Scottish Governments. It aims to bolster barley growing by researching new varieties and techniques to increase yield, resilience, and its climate-change credentials.

Dr Tim George

Press and media enquiries:

Sharon Simpson, Director of Communications and Engagement, Tel: +44 (0)1382 568792 (direct) or +44 (0)344 928 5428 (switchboard).