THE Food and Environment Research Agency (Fera) has announced the appointment of Dr Philip Newton as it’s new director of science.

He will be responsible for maintaining and growing the scientific reputation of Fera, both nationally and internationally, ensuring the integrity and quality of all its scientific activity.

Most recently he advised Reading University on drawing together different strands of science to deliver greater research power and impact.

Prior to that he was director of science for the UK’s Natural Environmental Research Council (Nerc).

His entire career has been in environmental science where he has spent time as an oceanographer, leading a marine geochemistry research group in France, working with funding bodies, and as a senior editor at the international science journal Nature.

Hilary Aldridge, Fera chief executive, said: “My colleagues and I look forward to working with Phil. He brings to the position extensive relevant experience and a long list of professional achievements. This is a senior science post in Defra and Government and thus will help in collaborative working across Defra, its network, and beyond.”

Dr Newton succeeds Prof Robert Edwards who has taken a post in agri-science at Newcastle University.