The world has lost one of its most remarkable and groundbreaking individuals with the passing of Sir Geoff Palmer, Scotland’s first black professor, who died on June 13, 2025, at the age of 85. Sir Geoff Palmer, a highly respected academic and passionate human rights advocate, left an indelible mark on both the academic world and society at large. Known for his trailblazing work in the field of grain science, his advocacy for social justice, and his relentless dedication to challenging historical injustices, Sir Geoff Palmer was a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations of students, colleagues, and activists.
Born in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica, in 1939, Sir Geoff moved to London in 1955 to join his mother. His journey to greatness began when he decided to pursue higher education, and he soon became a groundbreaking figure in both academia and social justice advocacy. After completing his studies at the University of Leicester, Sir Geoff Palmer continued his education at Heriot-Watt University and the University of Edinburgh, earning a Ph.D. in grain science and technology in the 1960s. He then went on to work in the field of brewing science, eventually developing the barley abrasion process, a revolutionary invention in the brewing industry that dramatically altered the way barley was malted. His discovery earned him the prestigious American Society of Brewing Chemists Award of Distinction, widely regarded as the “Nobel Prize of the beer world.”
Beyond his remarkable academic achievements, Sir Geoff Palmer’s contributions to social justice and human rights were equally impactful. As a proud black man in a society that has long struggled with issues of racial inequality, Sir Geoff never hesitated to use his platform to speak out for marginalized communities. In 2014, he was invited by the Edinburgh City Council to lead a review group tasked with examining the city’s colonial legacy, especially its connections to slavery. The work of the Edinburgh Slavery and Colonialism Legacy Review Group, under Sir Geoff’s leadership, resulted in several significant recommendations, including an official apology from the city council for Edinburgh’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Throughout his career, Sir Geoff was deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. He was a tireless advocate for black communities and worked diligently to create opportunities for young people, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. As a mentor and educator, he inspired countless students, teaching them not only about the importance of scientific inquiry but also about the values of equality, justice, and social responsibility. Sir Geoff believed in the transformative power of education, and he dedicated much of his life to fostering talent and empowering others to reach their full potential.
His involvement in academia and activism was complemented by his work as a public servant. In 2018, Sir Geoff was knighted for his services to human rights, science, and charity. Four years later, in 2022, he was appointed as the first Honorary Consul of Jamaica in Scotland. In 2021, he was honored as Chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, cementing his position as one of Scotland’s most influential academic and public figures.
Throughout his life, Sir Geoff remained humble and grounded, always focusing on the greater good rather than personal accolades. His leadership was marked by empathy, a deep commitment to fairness, and a desire to make a positive impact on the world. He was widely respected for his ability to bring people together, creating a space where diverse voices could be heard and valued. His work was not just about advancing knowledge in science or history but about ensuring that the world was a better place for future generations.
The news of Sir Geoff Palmer’s passing has left the world in mourning, with tributes pouring in from across the globe. Scottish Labour MSP Foysol Choudhury, a close friend and colleague of Sir Geoff, took to social media to express his deep sorrow, calling Sir Geoff a “father figure” and praising his “courageous voice for justice and equality.” Choudhury said, “He was not only a distinguished scientist and academic, but also a courageous voice for justice and equality. My sincere condolences to his family and all who knew and admired him. May his soul rest in peace.”
Sir Geoff’s impact on those who worked with him was profound. Professor Richard A. Williams, the principal and vice-chancellor of Heriot-Watt University, said, “Sir Geoff was an inspiration not just to me but to colleagues past and present, and countless students around the world. His infectious enthusiasm and passion for education were impossible to ignore, and this University was all the richer for having such a strong association with him over the years. He will be dearly missed, and our thoughts are with his loved ones at this difficult time.”
His contributions to academia, his advocacy for racial justice, and his leadership in the fight for equality have inspired generations of students, activists, and scholars. He leaves behind a rich legacy, not just in the fields of science and education but in the broader context of social justice and human rights. His work has fundamentally shaped the way society views race, inequality, and the need for systemic change. Sir Geoff Palmer’s name will forever be synonymous with the tireless fight for a better, more equitable world.
Edinburgh’s Lord Provost, Robert Aldridge, called Sir Geoff Palmer a “true inspiration” and praised his vital contribution to the city’s recognition of its links to slavery and colonialism. “He made a vital contribution to recognizing and profiling the capital’s links with slavery and colonialism in the public realm,” Aldridge said. “I know Sir Geoff’s legacy in academia and activism will live on for years to come, inspiring future generations. He will be dearly missed – my thoughts are with his friends, family, and all those who knew him.”
Sir Geoff Palmer’s death has left a void in the academic and activism communities that will be difficult to fill. His legacy, however, will continue to inspire future generations of scholars, activists, and leaders committed to social change. His tireless advocacy for equality, his groundbreaking research in brewing science, and his unflinching dedication to the fight for racial justice have made an indelible impact on both the academic world and the broader global community. His work has shown that science, education, and activism are not separate pursuits but are deeply intertwined in the fight for a more just and equitable world.
As the world mourns his passing, it is essential to remember the lessons Sir Geoff Palmer taught us all—the importance of standing up for justice, the power of education, and the need for persistent efforts to address historical wrongs. His legacy will continue to guide us as we work toward creating a more equitable and inclusive future for all. Rest in peace, Sir Geoff Palmer. Your contributions to humanity will never be forgotten.
The post Scotland’s First Black Professor, Sir Geoff Palmer, Dies at 85: A Legacy of Achievement, Activism, and Advocacy first appeared on Trusted and Verified USA News.
