Sir Geoff Palmer dies aged 85

Scotland’s first black professor Sir Geoff Palmer has died, aged 85.  

He held the role of chancellor and professor emeritus at Heriot-Watt University until his death.  

Palmer moved to the UK from Jamaica as a teenager and became regarded for his role in academia and human rights advocacy.  

Professor Richard A Williams, the principal and vice-chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, described the late professor as “an inspiration” to “students around the world”.  

He said: “His infectious enthusiasm and passion for education was impossible to ignore and this university was all the richer for having such a strong association with him over the years. 

“He will be dearly missed, and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.” 

Reacting to the news on social media, Labour MSP Foysol Choudhury said he was “deeply saddened” by Palmer’s passing, describing him as “a father figure”.  

He said: “He was not only a distinguished scientist and academic, but also a courageous voice for justice and equality. 

“My sincere condolences to his family and all who knew and admired him. May his soul rest in peace.” 

Choudhury added: “Geoff wasn’t just my dad’s best friend, he was a father figure to me, took me under his wing as a teen and continued to inspire me his entire life. It’s a huge loss, but I’m grateful for the memories.” 

First Minister John Swinney described Palmer as a “pioneer” and an “outstanding intellectual”.  

He said: “I am very saddened to hear this news.  

“Sir Geoff Palmer was a pioneer and an outstanding intellectual. He had a hugely positive impact on Scotland and will be sorely missed.  

“My sympathy to his family.” 

Palmer moved to live with his mother in London from Jamaica in 1955.  

He completed his PhD in grain science and technology between Heriot-Watt College and the University of Edinburgh in the 1960s. 

He earned the American Society of Brewing Chemists Award of Distinction – a highly regarded award in the beer industry – for inventing the barley abrasion process.  

Palmer was also invited to chair Edinburgh City Council's review group looking into the city’s colonial legacy, which made several recommendations, including that the city council should apologise for Edinburgh’s role in slavery and colonialism. 

In 2014, he was knighted for services to human rights, science and charity.