Giles Oldroyd Appointed as New President of Danforth Plant Science Center

Giles Oldroyd Named President of Danforth Plant Science Center

The Donald Danforth Plant Science Center has recently concluded an extensive international search, resulting in the selection of Dr. Giles Oldroyd as its new President. This transition marks a significant development for the center, as it aims to further its mission of enhancing agricultural practices and understanding plant interactions. Dr. Oldroyd, an eminent plant geneticist, is noted for his groundbreaking work deciphering the symbiotic relationships between plants and beneficial bacteria and fungi, essential for optimizing nutrient absorption, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus.

Scheduled to assume his role on October 1, 2025, Dr. Oldroyd expressed his enthusiasm about leading such a prestigious institution, emphasizing the critical role of plant science in addressing global challenges. "Plant science is essential to tackling the global challenges we face," he stated, reflecting on the pressing issues of food security and environmental sustainability.

Dr. Oldroyd, who has held the position of Russell R. Geiger Professor of Crop Science and Director of the Crop Science Centre at the University of Cambridge since 2017, is among the top 1% of highly cited plant scientists worldwide. His memberships in the UK's Royal Society and the US National Academy of Sciences underscore his contributions to the field, as he is one of only a few hundred scientists globally honored by both organizations.

In addition to his academic accomplishments, Dr. Oldroyd leads the Enabling Nutrient Symbioses in Agriculture (ENSA) project, which is supported by Gates Agricultural Innovations. This initiative focuses on enhancing crop yields in Africa through improved nutrient uptake mechanisms, showcasing a direct application of his research to improve agricultural productivity and food security.

With guidelines from the World Food Prize Foundation, Dr. Oldroyd was recognized in the 2024 Top Agri-Food Pioneers List, highlighting his influence and commitment to the agricultural sciences. In his new leadership role, he aims to foster collaboration and innovative research, which are cornerstones for the Danforth Center's objectives. Penny Pennington, managing partner at Edward Jones and chair of the Danforth Center Board of Directors, remarked on Dr. Oldroyd's proven leadership qualities and dedication to enhancing lives through plant science. “Under his leadership, we are confident the Danforth Center will continue to drive innovative research, foster collaboration and expand its impact across the globe,” she noted.

Dr. Oldroyd succeeds James C. Carrington, PhD, who has served as the President and CEO of the Danforth Center since 2011, during which the center has grown as a pivotal research institute. Founded in 1998, the Danforth Plant Science Center is a nonprofit research institution dedicated to improving human well-being through advancements in plant science. Through research, education, and outreach initiatives, the center aims to strengthen its impact at the intersection of food security and environmental advocacy while establishing the St. Louis region as a global hub for plant science research.

In conclusion, Dr. Giles Oldroyd's appointment as President heralds an exciting new chapter for the Danforth Plant Science Center. His rich expertise and commitment to addressing agricultural challenges position him as a vital leader, as the center continues to pursue groundbreaking research and innovation in the plant sciences.