Genetics expert appointed next head of Roslin Institute
Professor John Hammond has been appointed the next Director of the Roslin Institute.
Professor Hammond, an expert in genetics, genomics, and immunology, is currently Director of Research at The Pirbright Institute. He is expected to take up his post at Roslin in May.
He will take over from Professor Mark Stevens, Deputy Director for Research at the Roslin Institute, who has held the post of Interim Director since September 2025. Prior to this, the Institute was led by Professor Bruce Whitelaw from 2020 to 2025.
Research career
Professor Hammond obtained a PhD in comparative immunology from the University of St Andrews before moving to Stanford University in 2003.
In 2009, he moved to The Pirbright Institute with a UK Research and Innovation Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) Institute fellowship.
He currently leads the Immunogenetics Group at The Pirbright Institute, studying the mechanisms and consequences of genetic variation on immunity in mammals.
“Roslin excels at pioneering animal biosciences, focusing on improving sustainable agriculture, controlling infectious diseases and enhancing animal and human health through genetics, genomics, and biotechnology.
I’m delighted to lead this globally recognised Institute in pursuit of world-beating farm animal genetics, gene editing and fundamental research that creates practical solutions for food security, disease prevention and health innovation.”
“I am delighted that Professor John Hammond has been appointed to the role of Director of the Roslin Institute.
Professor Hammond has a great vision for the Roslin Institute, and I look forward to working with him to deliver this.
We are very grateful to Professor Mark Stevens for his service as Interim Director until the new Director is in post. I thank Mark for his leadership in this position, and for his continued dedication to the Institute.”
The Roslin Institute receives strategic investment funding from the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council and it is part of the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.
For further information, please contact:
Roslin Institute
The University of Edinburgh
Easter Bush
Midlothian, EH25 9RG
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