The Trustees of the NAFC Marine Centre in Scalloway, Shetland recently announced the appointment of Professor David Gray as the new Director of the Centre.
Professor Gray is a marine biologist and currently Dean of Faculty at the University of Derby in Buxton, England. He has an Honours Degree from the School of Ocean Sciences at the University College of North Wales, Bangor and a PhD from the Department of Zoology & Entomology, Rhodes University, South Africa.
Commenting on his appointment, Professor Gray said: "This is my dream job: it will give me the opportunity to marry my chosen discipline of marine biology with the academic leadership skills that I have acquired during my career to date.
"I believe that Shetland will be the perfect location to bring up our family. I grew up in Cornwall and feel that Shetland offers the same family-orientated lifestyle and community support that I enjoyed as a child. We also look forward to enjoying the islands’ fantastic wildlife and environment and greatly appreciate the low crime rate.
"Although I will not officially take up my position until December, I will be spending time in Shetland at the NAFC Marine Centre in advance to get to know the people and familiarise myself with the position so that I can hit the ground running in December."
Tony Hawkins, the interim Director of the Centre said, "We are very fortunate to have secured the services of Professor Gray. Having a Director of his stature and experience will reinforce our position as a leading provider of training, research, and advice for the nautical, fisheries, engineering, aquaculture and food industries.
"The Centre itself provides training and education to support the maritime industries which underpin the economy of Shetland. Under Professor Gray’s leadership, it will continue to strengthen partnerships with local industries, schools, colleges and other research and training providers to meet Shetland’s needs in the most effective way."
