Dean of Science appointed at Auckland Uni

Media release
Faculty of Science
The University of Auckland
18 May 2009

Dean of Science appointed at The University of Auckland

Professor Grant Guilford will be the new Dean of Science at The University of Auckland, succeeding Professor Dick Bellamy who retired at the end of last year.

Professor Guilford has held senior roles at Massey University, and is currently Head of its Institute of Natural Sciences. Prior to that, he spent ten years as Head of the Institute of Veterinary, Animal and Biomedical Sciences. During his tenure the institute became the first veterinary school in the southern hemisphere to win accreditation by the American Veterinary Medical Association. He also led the creation of the Hopkirk Research Institute, a multi-million dollar joint venture between Massey University and AgResearch.

“Professor Guilford brings to The University of Auckland his considerable experience in university education, research management and the commercialization of intellectual property,” says Vice-Chancellor, Professor Stuart McCutcheon.

“This is a very important appointment given that the Faculty of Science is our largest Faculty and one that is critical to our objectives for the enhancement of quality teaching, the postgraduate programme and research impact.”

Professor Guilford holds Bachelor of Philosophy and Bachelor of Veterinary Science degrees from Massey University and a PhD in Nutrition from the University of California, Davis. He is an accomplished researcher who has published widely and is experienced in establishing research consortia and partnerships for research excellence. Several successful commercial products have been developed from Professor Guilford’s research, and he has led or participated in the commercialisation of nine start-up companies.

“It will be a privilege to lead the Faculty of Science, which plays a pivotal role in science in New Zealand and an increasingly significant role internationally,” says Professor Guilford. “I look forward to continuing to foster the intellectual freedom and highly creative environment in which research and learning can flourish.”

Professor McCutcheon paid tribute to Professor Bellamy, who stepped down after 50 years’ association with the University. He also acknowledged the contribution of Professor Alan Lee as Acting Dean since Professor Bellamy’s retirement.

Professor Guilford will take up the position of Dean of Science in August 2009.

ENDS

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