Pioneering professor retires after 28 years at Essex

A pioneering professor who transformed the way we perceive the environment whilst fighting for sustainable agriculture and climate recovery is retiring after 28 years at the University of Essex.

Alongside his influential research work, Professor Jules Pretty helped lead the University of Essex through a period of dramatic growth as Deputy Vice-Chancellor from 2012 to 2019.

His many other key roles within the University have included Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Science & Engineering), Director of the Centre for Environment and Society, Head of Department for the School of Life Sciences (then called Biological Sciences) and Director of the Centre for Public and Policy Engagement.

'Honour and a great pleasure'

Professor Pretty said: “One era ends, and another begins. It has been an honour and a great pleasure to teach and research at the University of Essex for so many years. I now look forward to being an Emeritus Professor and continuing to ensure we create ideas that improve people’s lives.”

As an Emeritus Professor he is planning to continue his influential work – which included the University’s world-leading work on the power of green exercise - that has had an impact around the world and made him one of the most cited environmental science scholars in the UK.

National and international accolades include receiving an OBE in 2006 for services to sustainable agriculture, an honorary degree from Ohio State University in 2009, and the British Science Association Presidential Medal (Agriculture and Food) in 2015.

He is also a Deputy Lieutenant for Essex, President of the Essex Wildlife Trust, Chair of the Essex Climate Action Commission and was Chair of the independent commission supporting the Essex Renewal Project.

Radio 4 panellist

As an award-winning author Professor Pretty has written more than 20 books and appeared across the regional and national media, presenting the BBC Radio 4 series Ploughing Eden, contributing and writing for the BBC TV correspondent programme The Magic Bean and being a panellist for Radio 4’s The Moral Maze.

At the University he has spearheaded innovative approaches to public engagement.

As Director of the Centre for Public Policy and Engagement, he developed, produced and presented the Louder Than Words podcast series and the Brighter Futures videos series which showed the impact of our world-leading researchers, while also launching the first Public Voice Scholars programme in the country.

His vital contribution has been praised by the University’s senior leaders.

'Deeply grateful'

Vice Chancellor Professor Maria Fasli said: “Professor Jules Pretty has made an extraordinary and lasting impact on the University of Essex, our community, and far beyond.

“His work has shaped global understanding of sustainable agriculture and environmental science, while his leadership within the University has been transformational.

“Jules’ commitment to public engagement and making research accessible has set a benchmark for how academic work can truly change lives.

“We are deeply grateful for his vision, his dedication, and his service, and we look forward to his continued contributions as an Emeritus Professor.”