UHI Shetland will be closed on Thursday 20th February from 1pm

UHI Shetland to be closed on Thursday 20th February 1-5pm

UHI Shetland will be closed on Thursday 20th February from 1pm until 5pm to allow staff time to attend the memorial service for our late colleague Dr Ian Napier.

Dr Napier's memorial will take place at St Columba's, Lerwick at 2pm on Thursday 20th February with donations at the door to the RNLI and the Coastguard Association.

Born and raised in Shetland, Ian’s love for the sea and his community shaped everything he did. After completing his studies, including a PhD on herring spawning grounds, Ian returned to Shetland “for a couple of months” to help the NAFC write funding applications. Those few months turned into nearly 30 years of dedicated service, during which Ian helped establish a fisheries research programme that continues to this day. He also developed training courses, supported the Shetland fishing industry in countless ways, and even built the college’s first website—showing the wide-ranging talents and commitment that defined him.

Ian wasn’t just an exceptional scientist; he was also a kind and approachable colleague, always willing to lend an ear or share a thoughtful word. His warmth and humour brought a sense of ease to even the busiest days, and he had a knack for bringing people together. Ian’s ability to bridge the gap between the academic world and the practical needs of Shetland’s fishing industry is a legacy we will always treasure.

For many of us, Ian was more than a colleague; he was a friend. He supported his team with generosity and sincerity, and his contributions reached far beyond his formal roles. As we come to terms with this loss, we reflect on Ian’s remarkable career, his kindness, and the difference he made to UHI Shetland and our wider community.

Our thoughts are with Ian’s family and friends during this difficult time. He will be greatly missed but remembered fondly by everyone at UHI Shetland.