We are pleased to announce that Dr. Ross Houston has been appointed as Benchmark Genetics’ chief scientific officer (CSO). In this new role, Ross will lead our global research and development, oversee breeding programmes and product design, and drive strategic initiatives to strengthen our position as a global leader in applied aquaculture genetics.
Ross joined Benchmark in 2022, bringing with him extensive expertise from his previous role as Chair of Aquaculture Genetics at the Roslin Institute. He is internationally recognized for pioneering the use of genomic technologies to advance breeding programmes, with nearly 150 peer-reviewed publications, several patents, and a strong presence on the global conference stage.
Since joining Benchmark, Ross has spearheaded key scientific developments, including the establishment of our Reproductive Technologies team and a state-of-the-art molecular genetics laboratory, which now delivers advanced genotyping services to aquaculture producers worldwide.
His appointment comes at a pivotal time as Benchmark Genetics becomes an independent company under the Novo Holdings portfolio. As CSO, Ross will report to newly appointed CEO Dr. Geir Olav Melingen and join the Benchmark Genetics Board.
“I’m honored to take up this new leadership position at a very exciting time in Benchmark Genetics’ journey. The power and value of innovation in genetics technologies to sustainable seafood production is clear, and I will focus on unlocking this potential by translating the latest science into commercial practice,” says Houston.
