Charles Brennan

Passionate communicator, researcher, mentor and leader.

New Zealand

About

A passionate leader, researcher, educator and mentor. I lead the development of the Sciences at New Zealand’s first University (Otago University) and implementation of strategic research initiatives, partnerships, and projects that contribute to the advancement of innovation, science discovery and educational development. My mission is to celebrate transformational leadership through the internationalisation of research, open collaboration, and lifelong learning; breaking down the boundaries within academia and establishing inclusive and respectful cultures. I enjoy mentoring and inspiring the next generation of food scientists and technologists, and fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for my colleagues and peers.

Experience

  • Pro Vice Chancellor at University of Otago
    Mar 2026 - Present · 5 mos

    Pro Vice Chancellor of Sciences at New Zealand’s first and oldest university.

  • Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) (13 yrs 5 mos)
    • Editor in Chief of the International Journal of Food Science and Technology
      Mar 2013 - Present · 13 yrs 5 mos

      Editor in Chief of the International Journal of Food Science and Technology https://academic.oup.com/ijfst A journal published on behalf of the Institute of Food Science and Technology. This authoritative and well-established journal publishes in a wide range of subjects, ranging from pure research in the various sciences associated with food to practical experiments designed to improve technical processes.

    • Deputy Editor in Chief of Translational Food Sciences
      Sep 2024 - Present · 1 yr 11 mos

      Deputy EIC for Transitional Food Sciences

  • Visiting Professor at Northwest A&F University
    May 2026 - Present · 3 mos

    Visiting professor at Northwest A&F helping with research projects and students across all of Science

  • Visiting Professor at Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma
    Oct 2025 - Present · 10 mos

  • Honorary Visiting Professor at RMIT University
    Feb 2021 - Present · 5 yrs 6 mos

    Former Executive Dean of Science (2021-2024), Chief Scientific Officer (2025-2026), Honorary Professor (2026-current).