Global Phosphorus Institute Appoints Dr. Joann K. Whalen as New Executive Director

June 16, 2023

The Global Phosphorus Institute (GPI) is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Joann K. Whalen as its new Executive Director. With her academic and practical experience in the areas of agronomy, soil and environmental sciences, Dr. Whalen brings insights and perspectives to support GPI’s mission as a global knowledge hub for all things phosphorus. For more than 20 years, Dr. Whalen's research and teaching has concentrated on the judicious management of nutrients, including phosphorus, to produce an ample supply of healthy, nutritious food for the planet. As a former President of the Canadian Society of Soil Science and the current President of the American Society of Agronomy, she has the privilege to interact with thousands of professionals who are developing science and technological solutions for better agriculture in a healthy environment, for the benefit of people around the globe. In her role as Executive Director, Dr. Joann K. Whalen will assume responsibility for overseeing and guiding GPI's overall direction and growth. This will be founded upon communicating the best evidence-based science that can empower people and communities to embrace a holistic vision for the responsible use of phosphorus, in both agriculture and non-agricultural domains. Through cooperative programs, coalitions and partnerships, the GPI expects to tackle today’s challenges and anticipate tomorrow’s opportunities for stakeholders at all levels, from individuals and municipalities to multinational players and intergovernmental organizations. “I am honoured and deeply appreciative of the opportunity to lead GPI as we continue our mission of global phosphorus stewardship. Through dialogue and dissemination of best science on this topic, we will engage and empower scientists, educators, practitioners and policymakers to act for responsible phosphorus use,” says Dr. Whalen. This appointment takes place further to the term of Dr Kaushik Majumdar one-year contract, as Interim Executive Director. GPI takes this opportunity to thank Dr. Majumdar, very sincerely, for his leadership and valuable contribution to steer the Institute forward during his mandate.