Congratulations Professor Geraint (Taff) Morgan!

After an incredible career packed with achievements, Geraint (Taff) Morgan will be leaving AstrobiologyOU to head off to new adventures as Professor of Analytical Chemistry at the University of Southampton. Known for his talent in analytical chemistry, Taff has spent years cracking tough problems, both in space and here on Earth. From working on the Ptolemy and GAP instruments for the Rosetta and Beagle2 space missions to solving real-world challenges, his contributions have been out of this world—literally.

Over the past 31.5 years, Taff has used his unique expertise to tackle everything from air quality monitoring for UK submarines to crafting cutting-edge systems for a global fragrance company. He’s even had a hand in revolutionizing Scotch whisky analysis, collaborating with distillers worldwide and helping secure multiple Innovate UK grants for his research team.

Taff holds patents that are in the final stages of commercialization and has worked with companies big and small to develop groundbreaking solutions in analytical science. His work has touched so many fields, from food networks to advanced instrumentation, always bridging the gap between academia and industry.

But that's not all—Taff has also been a mentor and leader, guiding PhD students (many through industry collaborations), spearheading lab services, and building long-lasting partnerships with global businesses. His recent projects include investigating the role of VOCs in diagnosing aerodigestive cancers, with support from Cancer Research UK, and leading commercial ventures that are turning bold ideas into reality.

With a track record of transforming cutting-edge science into real-world solutions, Taff has left an undeniable mark on science and innovation. As he sets off on this exciting new chapter, his colleagues and collaborators celebrate the legacy and wish him all the best for what’s to come.

We would like to share a huge congratulations from all of us and, although we will be losing Taff from our Directorate, we are happy to say that we will be keeping his knowledge and insights with us as a Visiting Professor in AstrobiologyOU and the School of Environment, Earth and Ecosystem Sciences (EEES).

Good luck Taff!