Institute of Food Research appoints new director

Professor David Boxer​ has been appointed as the next director of the Institute of Food Research and Professor of Microbial Metabolism at the University of East Anglia.

Boxer is currently Dundee University’s vice-Principal for research and enterprise and professor of microbial Biochemistry. He has extensive experience in university management and in research, having held a number of positions at Dundee University including dean of science and engineering and chairman of the biochemistry department.His own research focuses on the metabolism of trace elements such as nickel and molybdenum in bacteria. Boxer has also conducted external science assessment on international laboratories including the John Innes Centre and is closely associated with the Scottish Crops Research Institute.

Professor Trevor Davies, pro-vice-chancellor (research) at the University of East Anglia, said: “Boxer will bring a wealth of expertise and leadership skills to us at a time when we are developing further our science and innovation vision for the city and I am sure that he will play a key role in taking this forward.”

Professor Boxer is expected to take up his role in the spring.