Professor Sir Geoff Palmer

It is with enormous sadness that we learnt of the passing of Professor Sir Godfrey ‘Geoff’ Palmer who was a most pioneering and eminent member of our community.

The University mourns the loss of one of its own, who studied here and this institution honoured and held in the highest esteem. Geoff was awarded an honorary doctorate by the University of Leicester in 2016 and a student accommodation block was named after him on the University’s Freemen’s campus in 2022. He was also the recipient of a lifetime achievement award, presented to an alumna or alumnus who has excelled in their career, and whose life’s work has made a substantial contribution to their field or society, and who is an exemplary role model.

We are so pleased that Geoff, Margaret and family were able to join us for the official opening of our Freemen’s development and it was clear that Leicester had made a lasting impact. Geoff studied Botany at University of Leicester, and met Margaret whilst studying at the University before graduating in 1964.

Geoff epitomised what we describe as Citizens of Change – individuals who study at Leicester and then go on to have a transformative impact. As one of ten pioneering members of the Windrush Generation who had portraits commissioned by King Charles III to mark the 75th anniversary of the arrival of HMT Empire Windrush, he leaves a proud legacy. He has rightly been described as an intellectual giant and as chancellor and professor emeritus at Heriot-Watt University he made a huge impact on the sector and beyond.

His work in revolutionising the brewing industry with the discovery of the barley abrasion process and the development of sorghum as brewing material and food in Africa has been hugely impactful. He also helped to secure Britain’s first exports of barley to China. His services to human rights, science and charity were enormous.

Our graduates are ambassadors of our University and they are role models for future generations of students. Leicester pays tribute to a Professor who was a trail-blazer and who inspired others. Our University will record his contribution, and the building that is named after him also reflects our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion which Geoff championed and was a powerful advocate. Geoff’s impact is one that will resonate through the ages for generations of students.