Dr Mike Solomon, East Malling’s science director and a world-respected entomologist, has retired from the research centre after 36 years.
Solomon pioneered the development of biological control and integrated pest management programmes for apple and pear orchards.
His work on the biocontrol of spider mite and rust mite by exploiting predatory mites led to the integrated mite management system that was universally taken up by apple growers in the UK, according to EMR.
He helped develop laboratory techniques for detecting prey molecules within the gut of individual field-collected predatory insects and mites, which enabled an analysis of predator feeding patterns that provided a rational basis for designing IPM systems exploiting the action of predators.
He also helped pioneer the development of computer-based pest forecasting systems that could be exploited by growers themselves.
Throughout his career, Solomon has supervised a series of PhD students based at East Malling and linked with various universities and has been acclaimed for his contribution to science, horticulture and his impact on the UK fruit industry, receiving prestigious awards from both the RHS and Worshipful Company of Fruiterers.
Hugh Lowe, former chairman of EMR’s board of directors said: "With the help of his colleagues, Dr Mike Solomon managed the transfer of East Malling to becoming an independent research organisation, with calm efficiency and a minimum of interruption of the research in progress at the time. He could be relied upon to cope with whatever confronted him, and it was a privilege and a pleasure to have had the opportunity of working with him."
Dr Colin Gutteridge, EMR ceo added: “Mike Solomon has made a major contribution to horticultural science throughout his career and in recent years, shouldered the management burden of the break up of HRI and creation of EMR. Along the way he has made many friends and we will miss his cheerful demeanour and insightful perspective. We wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement."
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