The CSO role is pivotal to the development of the institute’s scientific strategy and the scientific leadership of the institute. Matthew will now take up the role of CSO and will also continue to lead his research group, focused on understanding foodborne pathogens such as Listeria, and leadership of research networks that connect those in industry with government and other innovators.

Responsibilities of the CSO include:

• Helping steer the development and implementation of the scientific strategy
• Responsible with the Institute Director and science programme leaders for developing and advising on the Institute’s scientific vision
• Strengthening the Quadram Institute’s reputation on the global stage and inspire scientific excellence across the institute
• Working with programme leaders and research group leaders to develop strategies to ensure the internationally recognised quality of Quadram’s discovery, strategic and applied research. The CSO will evidence the institute’s economic and social impact, contributions to the scientific body of knowledge, and recruitment of resources to expand the institute’s activities
•  Supporting the development of the next generation of scientists by coaching, mentoring and acting as a role model and advocate for our science
• Working with the institute’s Chief Business Officer to support the development of an entrepreneurial culture at the institute with strong outreach to forge scientific partnerships

Quadram Institute Director Prof Daniel Figeys said: “I’m delighted to be able to announce Matthew Gilmour’s appointment as our new Chief Scientific Officer. This is a pivotal role which is vital to the development of our scientific strategy and Matthew will help provide invaluable leadership and drive.”

Dr Matthew Gilmour said: “The Quadram Institute is home to an exceptional community of experts and students working together to improve health through our science focused on food, diet and the microbiome. Having been part of this team since 2020, I’ve seen first-hand the impact that comes from research institutes by bringing together researchers, industry and government to tackle complex challenges. I’m honoured and energised to take on this role and to help our team and our science deliver even greater benefits for the health and wealth of the nation.”

Short biography

Dr Matthew Gilmour is a Group Leader in the Microbes and Food Safety strategic programme at the Quadram Institute in Norwich, England. His work focuses on understanding and applying microbial genomics and ecology to improve food safety, public health, and antimicrobial stewardship, in partnership with the food industry and government agencies, including the Food Standards Agency.

Prior to joining the Quadram Institute in 2020, Matthew worked in Canada where his group helped pioneer the use of bacterial genomics in outbreak investigation, including the 2008 Canadian listeriosis outbreak and the 2010 Haiti cholera outbreak.

He subsequently served as Scientific Director General of Canada’s National Microbiology Laboratory, with senior leadership responsibility for national preparedness and response to emerging infectious diseases. He has also worked as a clinical microbiologist and infection prevention and control laboratory lead, maintaining a long-standing interest in the evolution and transmission of antimicrobial resistance.

Matthew currently directs the UK Food Safety Research Network and the AMAST (AMR in Agrifood Systems Transdisciplinary) Network, which bring together industry, policy, and academic partners to co-develop evidence and practical solutions for food system challenges. Matthew’s move to the UK and his work at the Quadram were profiled in the Work in Norwich initiative.