Dr Ruth Mitchell appointed to Trees and Woodlands Science Advisory Group

Dr Ruth Mitchell

“I am delighted to take up this role. Much of the research carried out at the Hutton is relevant to the topics we will be discussing within the group. I look forward to working with others in the group to help ensure that tree and woodland policies are based on the best available scientific evidence”

Dr Ruth Mitchell, a Plant Soil Ecologist at the James Hutton Institute’s Ecological Sciences department, has been appointed as a member of the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra), Trees and Woodlands Science Advisory Group (TAW-SAG).

The group was established in April 2021 and provides expert scientific input, challenge and assurance to Defra on the use of evidence and analysis to support woodland creation and improve woodland management.

TAW-SAG will provide balanced scientific advice to the England tree planting programme, ensuring that Defra receives input from a wide range of scientific experts and disciplines.

Upon her appointment, Dr Ruth Mitchell said: “I am delighted to take up this role. Much of the research carried out at the Hutton is relevant to the topics we will be discussing within the group. I look forward to working with others in the group to help ensure that tree and woodland policies are based on the best available scientific evidence.”

Dr Mitchell leads the Biodiversity and Ecosystems Group within the Ecological Sciences department at the Institute. She also leads the Natural Assets Theme for Scottish Government Rural Affairs, Food and Environment Strategic Research Programme.

Her research focuses on the impact of pressures on above and below ground biodiversity and habitat restoration. Recently she has focussed her work on assessing the wider environmental impacts of tree diseases.

Dr Mitchell is a member of the British Ecological Society's Scottish Policy Group and NatureScots Science Advisory Committee.