Chris is the Chief Scientist for Forest Research, overseeing the strategic research direction for Forest Research so that it provides the scientific knowledge and expertise required by its customers, and that advice to policymakers and practitioners is based on good science and sound evidence.

Chris has conducted research in several fields of forestry research; prior to becoming Chief Scientist he was Head of Centre for Ecosystems, Society and Biosecurity. He obtained a PhD in forest ecology from Edinburgh University and has been awarded an Honorary Professorship by the University of Stirling.

  • Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Foresters
  • Sector lead and Directorate member for Scotland’s Plant Health Centre
  • Contributor to Defra Trees and Woodlands Science Advisory Group
  • Co-ordinating lead author of Woodlands chapter for UK National Ecosystem Assessment
  • Former Trustee and Chair of the projects committee of the Scottish Forestry Trust
  • Former Member of Scottish Natural Heritage’s Expert Panel to the Scientific Advisory Committee
  • Founder and past leader of IUFRO Unit 8.08.02 ‘Impact of winds on forests’.