Southampton's National Oceanography Centre welcomes new chief scientist

Alex Whilding

26 June 2024 at 10:30 pm·2-min read

Prof. Penny Holliday is the new chief scientist <i>(Image: National Oceanography Centre)</i> — Prof. Penny Holliday is the new chief scientist *(Image: National Oceanography Centre)*

Southampton’s National Oceanography Centre has announced the appointment of a new chief scientist.

Prof Penny Holliday, an experienced ocean researcher and interim chief scientist since April 2024, will fully take on her new role.

Her new role comes following Dr John Siddorn was announced as chief executive of NOC in the same month.

Prof Holliday's journey with the National Oceanography Centre began in 1990 at the Institute of Oceanographic Sciences Deacon Laboratory.

From a project manager handling a global, multi-national research programme, she stepped up to juggle her research duties with her management role.

She earned her PhD from Liverpool University in 2002 and since then, has worked both part-time and full-time, playing an instrumental role as the associate director National Capability Science at NOC.

Before her promotion, Prof Holliday was also a principal investigator for AtlantiS, a leading UK Atlantic science programme that supports national and global strategic needs.

The University of Southampton awarded her the title of Honorary Professorial Fellow (Research) in June 2019.

She followed this achievement with the Society of Underwater Technology's Oceanography Award in December 2019.

Winning internal NOC Values Awards for Integrity and Empowerment, Ms Holliday is known to champion Diversity, Equality and Inclusion.

Prof Holliday said: "I am very excited to be taking on this role and to continue to work with the great people at the National Oceanography Centre.

"This is an important time for NOC and for ocean science as a whole as we continue to deliver critical science to understand planet Earth and inspire future generations to develop our understanding further."

Dr Siddorn said: "I am delighted that Prof Penny Holliday is taking on the Chief Scientist role at NOC.

"Our vision is to gain deeper understanding to ensure all living things prosper role, and Penny has a great blend of expertise and drive that will ensure our research has the impact society, and the ocean, deserves."

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