New Vice President to Focus on Research Capacity and Strategic Partnerships

Dr. Richard Donald has joined NSAC as Vice President Research, Extension and Outreach.

"I am pleased to welcome Dr. Donald to NSAC," said John MacDonell, Minister of Agriculture. "He brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position that will help focus NSAC's efforts on innovation, research and outreach for Nova Scotia's agriculture industry."

Dr. Donald will work with NSAC researchers as a catalyst to drive transition and innovation in the bioresource and agri-food sectors, working closely with AgraPoint and the provincial departments of agriculture, according to Dr. Leslie MacLaren, Co-President and Vice President Academic.

“Dr. Donald will lead NSAC’s efforts to cultivate research and innovation that has a direct impact on the global economy,” says Dr. MacLaren.

Over the past three years, Dr. Donald has served as Principal and Business Unit Director, International for Jacques Whitford Limited. He led a team responsible for identifying international markets and developing partnerships around the world.

Dr. Donald is excited to join the efforts of industry-focused research at NSAC. “NSAC is uncovering the emerging challenges facing agriculture and the agri-food industry. We conduct research to address those challenges and transfer the results back to industry,” says Dr. Donald. His interests also include engaging consumers with agriculture and food production, as well as promoting careers in the bioresource and agri-food industry.

According to Research Infosource Inc., NSAC is number one in research intensity among Atlantic Canada’s 16 universities. “Our research has a direct impact on the productivity, profitability and environmental footprint of agriculture both at our doorstep and around the world,” says MacLaren.

Dr. Donald was born and raised in Montreal and the eastern townships of Quebec. He holds a B.Sc. from Mount Allison University, a M.Sc. from University of Guelph and a PhD from University of Saskatchewan. He served as Research Fellow at NSAC from 1992 to 1993. He brings back to NSAC his experiences as a successful agronomy and environment consultant, both independently and with Jacques Whitford Ltd., Halifax.