Professor Ian Wallace CBE FREng, who has died aged 78, was a highly respected Cranfield University academic whose contributions to defence and security have made a lasting impact.
Professor Wallace had a long and influential career spanning more than five decades in the defence sector. After completing a degree and doctorate at Heriot-Watt University, he began his career researching combustion and energetic materials at the Explosives Research and Development Establishment (ERDE) before moving into a series of senior scientific and leadership roles within the UK Ministry of Defence.
During his career within the MOD he worked on the development and application of advanced defence technologies and advocated for collaboration between academia, government and industry to accelerate scientific advances in the sector. He became the first Director of the Defence Ordnance Safety Group and MOD Chief Inspector of Explosives, where he played a significant role in ensuring the safety and suitability of weapons and ordnance entering military service.
Professor Wallace joined Cranfield at the Defence Academy in Shrivenham in 2001 and progressed to serve as Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Head of Cranfield Defence and Security. As a member of the University's Executive, he was responsible for the leadership and development of Cranfield's defence and security activities and helped strengthen its reputation as a leading provider of defence education, research and training.
In 2011, he officiated at the graduation ceremony attended by Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, who was awarded an honorary degree in recognition of her contribution to education and support for the Armed Forces.
Following his retirement from executive leadership, Professor Wallace continued to contribute to the University and the wider defence sector. He became Chair of the Nuclear Research Advisory Council and was Professor of Explosives Chemistry at Cranfield, continuing his work in research and education.
Professor Dame Karen Holford DBE FREng, Chief Executive and Vice-Chancellor of Cranfield University, said “Professor Wallace was an exceptional colleague whose dedication and professionalism earned the respect of all who worked with him.
“His contributions to the University and to the defence and security sector were profound. He leaves a legacy at Cranfield and across the wider defence and security community. Our thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues.”
