We are delighted to announce that Professor Peter Taylor has been appointed as the new Director of the Institute of Development Studies.
Professor Taylor has close to 40 years of experience in international development, most recently as Acting Director for IDS since April 2024 and Director of Research at IDS. He joined IDS in 2020 from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Canada, where he spent 10 years in a variety of senior roles including Director, Strategic Development and Associate Director for the Think Tank Initiative. Previously, Peter also worked at IDS as a Research Fellow, leader of the Participation, Power and Social Change team, and Head of Graduate Programmes.
Professor Taylor holds a PhD and MSc in agricultural education, and a BSc degree in animal sciences, and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts. He has research, teaching and writing interests in the theory and practice of institutional strengthening, learning and development, and experience of facilitating participatory strategy and social change processes in a diverse range of international contexts.
Current research areas for Professor Taylor include exploring and promoting equity in global research collaborations and partnerships; decolonising knowledge for development; and identifying approaches to democratisation of science and innovation in agrifood systems.
Professor Taylor’s term as Director will run from 1 January 2025 until 31 December 2025.
In response to his appointment, Peter said:
“As a new year begins, amidst worldwide turbulence and uncertainty, the need for hope and light seems greater than ever. For nearly 60 years, IDS has demonstrated its commitment to research, teaching and engagement that contributes toward a more equitable and sustainable world. I am proud to have the opportunity in my new role to help support the IDS community of staff and partners globally, on this next exciting stage of our shared journey.”
Professor Deepak Nayyar, Chair of the Institute of Development Studies, said:
“We are confident that Peter Taylor’s leadership will provide the IDS with the stability and direction needed at this juncture to advance the mission of IDS, and that his tenure as Director will lay the foundations for a sustainable and thriving IDS.”