Remembering Honorary Graduate Prof Sir Geoff Palmer

We are deeply saddened by the death of Prof Sir Godfrey (Geoff) Palmer CD, Open University Honorary Graduate and distinguished advocate for education, equality and social justice, who passed away on 12 June 2025, aged 85.

Sir Geoff was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by The Open University (OU) in Scotland in 2010, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to science and public life. His personal and professional journey, from arriving in the UK from Jamaica in 1955 to becoming Scotland’s first black professor and one of the UK’s most influential public intellectuals, reflected the OU’s mission to make education accessible to all.

Sir Geoff remained a committed supporter of the OU following his honorary degree. He contributed to Open University learning resources, including authoring the blog article Scotland’s links with Caribbean slavery (2020), which continues to educate and engage learners in critical conversations about historical injustice.

He featured in the OU/BBC co-produced programme Windrush: Portraits of a Generation. Sir Geoff also featured in an interview for The Z Files which was filmed in Edinburgh with fellow Open University Honorary Graduate Professor Benjamin Zephaniah. 

A globally respected scientist, Sir Geoff pioneered the barley abrasion process during his doctoral studies at Heriot-Watt University, a discovery that revolutionised brewing science. He went on to become Professor of Grain Science and later Chancellor at Heriot-Watt, while also playing a pivotal role in founding the International Centre for Brewing and Distilling.

His career combined academic excellence with a deep commitment to public service. He was knighted in 2014 for services to science, human rights, and charity, and in 2024 was appointed a Knight of the Thistle, Scotland’s highest civilian honour.

Martin Boyle, Director of The Open University in Scotland, said: “We are profoundly saddened by the passing of Sir Geoff Palmer. He was an exceptional scientist, educator and campaigner whose life and work powerfully aligned with the OU’s mission to make education open to all. As an Honorary Graduate and valued supporter, he made a lasting contribution to our community in Scotland and across the wider University. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who were inspired by his work.”

Sir Geoff’s life and achievements have left an enduring impact. He championed the OU’s commitment to widening participation and exemplified the role of education in advancing equity, opportunity, and meaningful change in society.

13 June 2025