Horticulture Research International (HRI) has appointed Dr David Gray as head of site for HRI East Malling and Wye.

Gray took up the reigns on February 4, and his role will include co-ordinating science output, line manage the support services and provide the senior liaison function with the East Malling Trust for Horticultural Research (EMTHR) and the East Malling Research Association (EMRA).

Gray is HRI's most senior science department head and has extensive links with the horticulture industry.

EMTHR director Dr Jim Quinlan said: 'The East Malling trustees are pleased that an appointment has been made to this important post. In Dr Gray, HRI has a scientist with wide experience and an appreciation of the needs of the horticultural industry.'