Leading scientist joins University of Salford

The University of Salford has appointed a top biological scientist as the head of its School of Environment and Life Sciences.

Professor Judith Smith joins Salford from Leeds University where she was director of the Faculty of Biological Sciences Graduate School and head of the School of Biology.

She built her international research profile linking molecular science with the environment and evolutionary genetics. Her work has ranged from pathogens affecting silkworms in China and shrimps in Lake Baikal, through to zoonotic disease (disease transmitted between animals and humans) in chickens in East Africa and in sheep in the Yorkshire Dales.

Professor Smith said: “I am delighted to be joining the School of Environment and Life Sciences. It has a diverse multi-disciplinary portfolio and a strong reputation for teaching and research which I aim to develop in my new role.”

She takes up her new role on 1 September 2010. She replaces Professor David Storey who is retiring after 36 years at the University.