Dalton Director’s new role

Director of the University’s Dalton Nuclear Institute Professor Andrew Sherry has accepted a new role as Chief Science and Technology Officer at the National Nuclear Laboratory (NNL).

Professor Sherry, who has worked at the University for more than ten years, will take up his new post in January next year, replacing Professor Graham Fairhall, who is retiring from NNL in March.

Professor Francis Livens, Dalton’s Director of Research, will become interim Director of the Institute from January 5 until a permanent replacement is found. Professor Sherry will maintain a research group at the University.

Professor Sherry said: “While I am delighted to be offered the position of NNL’s Chief Science and Technology Officer at a time of considerable opportunity for the UK nuclear sector, I will be sorry to be leaving the University and the many colleagues who have made working here such a pleasure.

“NNL is a key strategic partner for Dalton and I'm sure that our two organisations will continue to work closely on nuclear skills, research and innovation.”

Professor Colin Bailey, Vice-President and Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, said: “Andrew’s experience, insight and tremendous technical knowledge of the nuclear industry have been instrumental in putting the University’s Dalton Nuclear Institute at the forefront of the nuclear renaissance in Britain.

“Andrew’s passion for inspiring others and his talent in explaining complex issues at all levels, not least during the Fukushima crisis, has made him one of the country’s leading authorities on nuclear energy. He will be missed but we wish him every success in his new role at NNL.”

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Baroness Verma, added: “Andrew has supported the implementation of the Government’s Nuclear Industrial Strategy in his role as Director of the Dalton Nuclear Institute and has had a significant impact on nuclear communications through the Nuclear Industry Council. It’s excellent news that he is to remain in the UK’s vital nuclear research sector and I look forward to working with him in his new role.”