Malcolm Longair

Malcolm Longair is a distinguished academic and former Regius Professor of Astronomy at the University of Edinburgh (1980–?) and Head of the Cavendish Laboratory at the University of Cambridge (1997–2005). He served as Astronomer Royal for Scotland and has led international collaborations with NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA), including chairing committees for the Planck and Euclid missions. His research focuses on high-energy astrophysics, cosmic magnetism, and the capabilities of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).

He has also authored a scientific history of the Cavendish Laboratory. Awards include a CBE for contributions to astronomy and cosmology, and fellowships with the Royal Society (FRS) and Royal Society of Edinburgh (FRSE).

Longair’s work emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, with affiliations to the Cavendish Laboratory and the Battcock Centre for Astrophysics. His career spans leadership in observational cosmology, astrophysical instrumentation, and institutional governance.