Wine chemist takes helm of UC Davis institute devoted to wine and food

Professor Andrew Waterhouse, a faculty expert in wine chemistry, quality and analysis, has been named Director of the Robert Mondavi Institute for Wine and Food Science at the University of California, Davis.

Waterhouse brings extensive experience in teaching, research and community involvement to the institute, which connects faculty and students with a broad network of scientists, entrepreneurs, policymakers, consumers and industry professionals engaged in wine, brewing and food science.

“I look forward to working closely with the Department of Viticulture and Enology and the Department of Food Science and Technology, to strengthen our campus partnerships with the food and wine sectors, as well as the broader public,” said Waterhouse. “What could be more interesting than understanding the food we eat and the wine we drink?”

A professor of enology, Waterhouse has held the John D. Kinsella Chair in Food, Nutrition and Health, served as Chair of the Department of Viticulture and Enology, and most recently was Associate Dean in Graduate Studies. He has received an honorary Doctorate from the University of Bordeaux, was one of the first class of the UC Davis Chancellor’s Fellow award, and has led many national and international symposia. He is highly cited in agricultural research and teaches both graduate and undergraduate classes in wine chemistry.

Waterhouse will begin his new role on August 1, taking over for Interim Director Jean-Xavier Guinard, a professor and sensory scientist in the Department of Food Science and Technology. Guinard will continue his world-class research and instruction in understanding the sensory properties of food and beverages and how they affect consumer behavior.

Made possible by the generosity of Robert Mondavi, the institute was founded to enhance and celebrate the science of wine, brewing and food. The institute supports student scholarships and internships, hosts community education and events, and connects researchers to industry stakeholders.

Helene Dillard, pathology professor and dean of the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, said Waterhouse is uniquely suited to support the mission of the college and institute.

“Professor Waterhouse comes to us with excellent experience in research, teaching and community partnership,” Dillard said. “UC Davis and our college are committed to Robert’s vision for the institute. We greatly value the foundational support of our partners, and we are dedicated to maintaining and building relationships with all who have contributed to our growth and success.”