Professor Hein is Head of Potato Genetics at the Hutton, where he is based, and Professor of Crop Genetics at the University of Dundee. He has over twenty years of research experience in potato biology, with a focus on identifying disease resistance to the most significant pathogens threating global potato production.

His work explores the diversity of wild potato species in the Commonwealth Potato Collection, housed at the Hutton, and established varieties, to uncover novel traits, advancing these discoveries through state-of-the-art genomics and genetics technologies. By bridging fundamental research and applied breeding, he helps to develop potato cultivars that meet the needs of industry, growers and consumers.

NPIC is a partnership dedicated to finding scientific solutions to the challenges facing the potato industry. It draws on the Hutton's extensive expertise in delivering commercially successful varieties for major breeding companies to develop sustainable, climate resilient production systems using precision agri-tech tools such as robots, drones and below ground phenotyping as well as AI and modelling to control disease, manage waste and contribute to net zero farming systems.

"As the potato industry faces increasing, climate-driven threats, NPIC brings academia and industry together to safeguard potato production in the UK and globally"

Commenting on his appointment, Professor Hein said, "I am very excited to be taking on the role of Deputy Director of the National Potato Innovation Centre. NPIC's alignment with industry needs provides a valuable opportunity to deliver real-world impact through our research.

"As the potato industry faces increasing, climate-driven threats, NPIC brings academia and industry together to safeguard potato production in the UK and globally."

Director of NPIC, Professor Ian Toth, said, "I am delighted that Ingo will be taking up this role at a critical time for NPIC as we continue to seek infrastructure support to enhance delivery of scientific solutions that will futureproof the £4.5 billion British potato industry.

"His experience and enthusiasm will be invaluable over the coming years as our science-industry partnerships continue to grow and these important solutions begin to impact and safeguard production of this vital food crop."

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