The James Hutton Institute is excited to announce that Professor Rupert Hough has been appointed as director of digital transformation.
Having joined the Hutton in 2006, when it was still known as the Macaulay Institute, Professor Hough has an in-depth knowledge of the organisation and its culture. For the past ten years, he has served as Head of the Information and Computational Sciences (ICS) Department, guiding his team through the Covid-19 pandemic and the ever-shifting world of digital technology.
A risk analyst by training, Professor Hough’s work focuses on translating complex data into meaningful insights and practical solutions. He has experience applying modelling techniques to support regulation of potentially harmful substances in food and has overseen a diverse portfolio of computer and data-driven sciences for agricultural and environmental applications. Additionally, he's helped to deliver projects that advance sustainable agriculture, support open science, and foster knowledge exchange across the research community.
Professor Rupert Hough
In his new position, Professor Hough will help the organisation take advantage of the new opportunities presented by emerging technologies and continue developing a culture that promotes innovation and efficiency.
Speaking on the role, he said: “As I step into the role of director of digital transformation, I am excited to help shape the institute’s digital future.
“This new chapter is both a recognition of the progress we’ve made and a commitment to accelerating change—empowering colleagues with the tools, skills, and culture needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. I look forward to working across all departments to unlock new opportunities, streamline processes, and ensure that digital innovation amplifies our impact on science and society.
“For me, this role is not just about technology but about enabling people and ideas to flourish in a connected, data-driven world.”
Professor Deb Roberts, deputy chief executive and director of science at the Hutton, said: “Over the past ten years, Rupert has done a fantastic job of leading our ICS Department, putting to use both his incredible expertise and warm personality.
“I have no doubt that he’ll continue to prove an invaluable member of the Hutton team in his new role, guiding us through our digital transformation and making sure we seize every opportunity along the way.
“We are now recruiting for a new Head of the ICS Department internally, and any colleagues interested should speak to myself or Rupert.”