Cranfield University has appointed a new Director of the Environment and Agrifood Theme in the School of Water, Energy and Environment (SWEE).
Professor Angel Medina Vaya took up the permanent post of Director earlier this month. He has more than 20 years of experience in research and for the last six years has been the Agrifood MSc Programme Director. He has been Acting Director of the Environment and Agrifood Theme since August 2021.
The Theme has 42 academics and 30 research staff members across two research centres, focusing on deepening understanding of the world and enabling a more sustainable future by promoting innovation and tackling challenges in the Environment and the Agrifood sectors.
Professor Medina Vaya is also Head of the Applied Mycology Group at Cranfield, with his research focused on the impact that environmental stress has on the functioning of fungi, mechanisms for ecophysiological tolerance, and the production of mycotoxins.
He said: “I am really looking forward to this position. While developing the role as Acting Director, I discovered what an amazing team we have here at Cranfield. Now I am more convinced than ever that, working together, we can do amazing science research and teaching for the University.
“We will be at the forefront of the vital changes that the planet needs in the coming decades – demonstrating and implementing scientific-based solutions that will shape the societies of tomorrow.
“I would like to thank all those that have supported me in this process.”
