Sir Geoff Palmer, pioneering brewing scientist, distinguished academic, and tireless advocate for social justice, has died at the age of 85. His passing marks the loss of a transformative figure whose impact reached far beyond academia and brewing into Scottish society and international discussions on race, heritage, and history.

Born in Jamaica in 1940, Palmer moved to England at the age of 14, later settling in Scotland. He overcame significant initial challenges, confronting prejudice and adapting to a new life, using these experiences as fuel for groundbreaking academic achievement.

His academic journey began under Professor Anna Macleod at Heriot-Watt University, where Palmer pursued his doctorate in cereal grain science. It was here, in 1968, that he developed the barley abrasion process, revolutionising malting by accelerating germination and reducing processing time. This innovation quickly gained global adoption, significantly reshaping the brewing and distilling industries.

Palmer modestly described his contribution in a 2020 Whisky Magazine interview: “Science, in its essence, is simplicity and practicality. I saw a need, an inefficiency, and pursued the simplest route to solving it. That it changed brewing globally was a fortunate byproduct.”

Palmer's academic career took a historic turn when, in 1989, he became Scotland’s first Black professor at Heriot-Watt University. Recognising global demand for specialist education, he established the International Centre for Brewing and Distilling (ICBD), now regarded as a premier institution internationally. As he explained to Whisky Magazine, “We are not just teaching students how to brew or distil, we are teaching them how to think, how to question, and how to lead.”

Throughout his distinguished career, Palmer earned numerous accolades, including the ASBC Award of Distinction in 1998 — often described as the brewing industry's equivalent to a Nobel Prize — and was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 2003. In 2014, he received a knighthood recognising his extensive contributions, and in 2021 he was appointed chancellor of Heriot-Watt University.

Palmer’s impact stretched beyond science and academia into social justice and historical accountability. From 2007, he passionately addressed Scotland’s colonial legacy and involvement in slavery, advocating for honest reflection and change. His efforts led to significant achievements, including the installation of a commemorative plaque in Edinburgh in 2022, marking the abolition of slavery in Scots law.

Reflecting his profound perspective, Palmer shared with Whisky Magazine: “To understand our present and shape a fairer future, we must honestly face our past. Scotland’s greatness is in its willingness to reflect, to acknowledge, and to learn.”

His dedication brought further recognition, notably the Edinburgh Award and Jamaica’s Order of Distinction. Known for his humility, Palmer maintained close connections with students and communities, embodying intellectual excellence matched by deep compassion.

Sir Geoff Palmer’s legacy extends beyond his scientific and academic accomplishments to the lasting human connections he fostered. Colleagues frequently praised his warmth, inspiration, and dedication to mentoring emerging scientists and leaders.

Reflecting on legacy, in an unpublished quote from his interview with Whisky Magazine, Palmer said: “Legacy isn't something you build deliberately; it emerges from how you live your life, how you treat people, and how generously you share your knowledge and spirit. If people remember me, I hope it's because I treated them well and helped them see their own potential.”

His profound influence endures — not merely in brewing processes and educational curricula, but in the countless individuals he guided and inspired. Brewers, distillers, students, and advocates worldwide will continue to feel the enduring presence of Sir Geoff Palmer, whose life significantly enriched his industry, Scotland, and the global community.

Sir Geoff Palmer is survived by his family and by countless others deeply touched by his extraordinary life.