New Dean for UCL Faculty of Life Sciences announced

Gail took up her current position in 2017 after 18 years at the University of Southampton, where she was Director of Research on the leadership team for the REF, acted as Head of School, and had been appointed Associate Dean elect (Donors and Foundations) for the Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences when she departed the UK. She is an advocate of the student voice and is looking forward to supporting staff and students with the delivery of excellent teaching.

Gail was a member of the 2021 REF panel for UoA5, Biological Sciences and her own research covers Plant, Environment and Sustainability Science, focused on the societal challenges of Sustainable Food and Energy Production and Adaptation to the Changing Environment, particularly through research that crosses disciplinary boundaries.

Gail has a track record of securing funding from funding councils (such as EPSRC and NERC), government bodies (such as the US Department of Energy), and industry (including Leafy Greens California and Plenty). She is currently a Coordinating Lead Author of the UNEP GEO-7, state of the Environment report that will be published in 2026.

UCL President and Provost, Dr Michael Spence AC commented:  “Life Sciences is a big, brilliant faculty and I am delighted that, after an extensive international search, we are able to welcome Gail to UCL to lead it. She brings a wealth of expertise, and I am very much looking forward to working with her. I am also really grateful to Professor Stephanie Schorge for leading the faculty so expertly in the interim.”

Gail will join UCL during the spring of 2024 and is already engaging with faculty leadership on several issues. Stephanie has generously agreed to remain as interim Dean and support the transition to Gail’s leadership.

Further information:

• Professor Gail Taylor - staff profile
• Plant Sciences at University of California, Davis (UC Davis)
• UCL Faculty of Life Sciences