Former Marine Centre head recognised for contribution to university

The former director of the NAFC Marine Centre UHI has been recognised for his contribution to University of the Highlands and Islands. David Gray has been made an honorary Professor by the institution.

Professor Gray led the Scalloway-based Marine Centre, a partner of the University of the Highlands and Islands, for five years. A marine biologist from Cornwall, he held positions at Rhodes University, the University of Derby and the University of the West of England before taking up the top role at NAFC Marine Centre UHI in December 2008. He was also principal of Shetland College UHI from February 2011 to August 2012.

Professor Gray left his role at the NAFC Marine Centre UHI in June to take up a position at Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia, Canada. He is dean of faculty and principal for the university’s new agricultural campus. Willie Shannon has been appointed interim manager at the NAFC Marine Centre UHI.

Speaking about his honorary title, Professor Gray said: “I have always been very proud to be a part of the University of the Highlands and Islands and am delighted that I will be maintaining an ongoing link with what is clearly a highly innovative and forward thinking institution. I would like to thank the university for conferring this honour upon me and look forward to working with it in the future from my new role at Dalhousie University.”

University of the Highlands and Islands principal and vice-chancellor, James Fraser, said: “This award is a fitting recognition of Professor Gray’s skill and dedication in leading the NAFC Marine Centre UHI and its contribution to the university. David will continue to contribute to our Centre for Nordic Studies from his new position in Canada and we look forward to exploring collaborative activities. The university would like to wish David all the best in his new role.”

Media contact

Susan Szymborski
Communications officer
01463 279222
susan.szymborski@uhi.ac.uk