Monique Simmonds Obe

Professor Monique Simmonds, OBE, serves as the Deputy Director of Science at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, since 2008, focusing on research into the uses of plants and fungi, plant authentication in trade, and enhancing plant diversity to benefit communities. Previously, Professor Simmonds held the position of Director of the Kew Business and Innovation Unit and served as Deputy Keeper. Academic background includes a PhD from Birkbeck, University of London, and a BSc in Zoology and Agricultural Zoology from the University of Leeds. Early career experience includes roles as a Research Scientist at the University of Giessen and Birkbeck, University of London, from 1976 to 1985.