Professor Sir David Baulcombe FRS FMedSci has been appointed as the new Master of Trinity College, Cambridge, succeeding Professor Dame Sally Davies GCB DBE FRS FMedSci. The prestigious appointment, made by His Majesty King Charles III, marks a significant transition for one of the university's most esteemed colleges.
Sir David brings a wealth of academic and scientific experience to the role, having been a Fellow at Trinity College since 2009 and previously leading the Department of Plant Sciences as Head from 2009 to 2017. He currently holds the title of Regius Professor of Botany Emeritus in the same department.
His groundbreaking research in plant genetics has had a profound impact on human health, contributing to new treatments for various diseases worldwide. Sir David was instrumental in establishing the Crop Science Centre in 2020, a collaborative effort between the University of Cambridge and the National Institute of Agricultural Botany focused on agricultural research.
A distinguished figure in the scientific community, Sir David is a Fellow of the Royal Society, having served as Biological Secretary and Vice President since 2024. He also holds fellowships with the Academy of Medical Sciences, U.S. National Academy of Sciences, Royal Society of Edinburgh, and the Pontifical Academy of Sciences.
Sir David's research interests span plant hormones, disease resistance, virology, and RNA silencing, for which he co-patented a discovery now licensed to develop several drugs treating severe genetic disorders in humans. His contributions earned him the 2008 Albert Lasker Award for Basic Medical Research, alongside Nobel Laureates Victor Ambros and Gary Ruvkun.
The role of Master at Trinity College is highly influential, involving leadership, representation, and fostering intellectual and communal life within the college. Sir David's extensive scientific background and leadership experience are expected to guide the college through its next chapter, building on its rich history of academic excellence and innovation.