Simon Kerley has over two decades of work experience in various scientific and managerial roles. Simon started their career as a Post Doctoral Researcher at the Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research, where they conducted research on using 15N natural abundance in grassland environment studies. After that, they worked as a Plant Physiologist at Rothamsted Research, focusing on the physiology of white lupin and developing strategies for improving its tolerance to alkaline soils.
In 2003, Simon joined the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), initially as a Programme Manager in the Agri-Food branch, responsible for areas such as sustainable agricultural systems and biodiversity conservation. Simon then became a Senior Programme Manager, managing grant applications and engaging stakeholders from academia, government, and industry. At the same organization, Simon later served as the Strategy and Policy Manager and Deputy Head of Sector for the Bioscience Underpinning Health Sector, with specific responsibilities in neuroscience, diet and health, physiology, animal health, animal welfare, 3Rs, and aging research.
Currently, Simon is the Head of Terrestrial Ecosystems at NERC, where they lead the development of science strategy in the terrestrial ecosystems sector. Their role involves developing strategic plans, promoting partnerships, translating plans into research investments, and addressing challenges in the areas of soils, terrestrial ecosystem services, global food security, and synthetic biology.
Overall, Simon Kerley has a diverse background in scientific research, program management, and strategy development within the fields of ecology, agriculture, and health.
Simon Kerley earned their Bachelor of Science degree in Botany/Plant Biology from the University of Reading from 1986 to 1989. Simon then pursued a PhD in Plant and Microbial Ecophysiology at the University of Sheffield from 1989 to 1993.
May, 2013 - present