29 November 2021
Kew appoints new Deputy Director of Science
Kew’s Science Directorate has confirmed the appointment for the new role of Deputy Director of Science (Operations).
Dr Elizabeth Gardner will be joining RBG Kew in January 2022 as the first Deputy Director of Science (Operations).
The role was established as part of Kew’s new Science Strategy 2021 – 2025, launched in September this year, and directly oversees Kew’s vast Science Collections, Library and Archives, Science Services and Laboratories and Kew Madagascar Conservation Centre Operations, which underpin the delivery of Kew’s Scientific Priorities.
Elizabeth, who is currently Head of Operations at the Henry Royce Institute, will bring with her an impressive level of expertise in leading scientific operations following her previous experience at a national institute and at the interface of higher education institutions with industry and the NHS.
Director of Science, Prof. Alexandre Antonelli comments:
“Elizabeth has an exceptional track record, including her previous experience in delivering a £105m flagship research building at the University of Manchester and a 5-year strategic plan for a national institute. Along with her strong inter-personal skills, energy and interest in supporting Kew’s mission, I am confident that Elizabeth will soon become an invaluable member of the team, helping RBG Kew to realise its full scientific potential.”
Elizabeth says:
“I am delighted and incredibly excited to be appointed as Kew’s first Deputy Director of Science (Operations). My focus will be on getting the most out of our collections, infrastructure and facilities to maximise the impact of our research in implementing the new Science Strategy. Having started my career in research and as a trustee of my local gardening society, the incredible and important work from Kew Science has always fascinated me, so I can’t wait to be a part of it and lead such passionate and knowledgeable teams.”
Elizabeth will commence her role at RBG Kew on the 31 January 2022 and will join current Deputy Directors, Dr Paul Kersey and Prof. Monique Simmonds OBE.
