Simon Langan

Background

About Simon Langan

As Director of the IWMI programme on Water Data Science and Digital Innovations I am seeking to develop a stream of work which utilizes emerging and established digital innovations to influence policy, investment and best practice in relation to water systems and agricultural water management in the regions in which IWMI works. As country manager I will work with fellow researchers in the office to ensure the work undertaken benefits and aligns with national and regional priorities of government, agencies and donors. Within Sri Lanka, I am also responsible for a growing programme of research for development. Previously as Director of the Water Programme and Water Futures initiative at IIASA I was responsible for the development and use of integrated assessment models to assess at a global water security as well as regional level areas in which water and quality is or will become a constraint. The approach was to match available demand for water given changing population, economic and changing sectoral demands against a background of increased variability of water resources. As an interface between research, policy and practice, we also ran a flagship initiative - Water Futures and Solutions I have a strong background in policy relevant research and international capacity development. My experience at a global level and regionally in Europe, Africa and Asia has been centred on the use of research to increase knowledge and provide the evidence base to inform policy and practice. An essential element of this is to increase both individual and organizational capacity. With these skills and experience I have a proven track record of significant fund-raising for international projects. My native tongue is English. I have excellent oral and written skills as well as an empathy towards the audience where specific messages can be aimed at. My PhD is in land use and water quality from the University of St. Andrews was followed by a 3 year post doctoral fellowship in Imperial College, London.