The Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) has hired its first chief scientific officer, Dr. Nancy Tout (PhD). Tout’s appointment takes effect from Monday, July 18, 2022. 

A research and development leader with a PhD in microbiology and immunology, Tout is joining GIFS from Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR), a Government of Alberta initiative, where she has been responsible for developing, administering and delivering innovative research funding programs. Prior to RDAR, she was at Syngenta Canada for more than 21 years, leading a research and development team of more than 60 scientists across Canada in the discovery, development and registration of agricultural innovation projects. 

“We are thrilled to have Nancy join our team at GIFS, bringing her extensive leadership experience and wealth of research and development knowledge to help us advance our corporate strategy,” said GIFS Chief Executive Officer Dr. Steven Webb (PhD). “Her knowledge of the Canadian research environment, vast network and expertise with building partnerships will be a valuable asset to GIFS, as well as to Saskatchewan and Canada’s agriculture and food ecosystem.”

Tout earned a Bachelor of Biology (Honours) degree from Wilfrid Laurier University, followed by a PhD in microbiology and immunology from the University of Guelph in 1997. An award- winning scholar, she has also received national and global recognition, including as a Female Food Hero through CropLife International. 

Source:  University of Saskatchewan June 20, 2022 news release